Chris Stapleton

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Daddy Doesn’t Pray Anymore

Chris Stapleton

Lyrics

[Chorus]
Daddy doesn't pray anymore
I guess he's finished talkin' to the Lord
He used to fold his hands and bow his head down to the floor
But daddy doesn't pray anymore

[Verse 1]
I remember even when the times were bad
He thanked Jesus for everything he had
For a good wife and three children and the food upon our plates
Yeah, everything was right when he said grace

[Chorus]
Daddy doesn't pray anymore
I guess he's finished talkin' to the Lord
He used to fold his hands and bow his head down to the floor
But daddy doesn't pray anymore

[Verse 2]
There was a time when we didn't get along
'Cause I thought I was right and he was wrong
Still when I laid down at night I'd hear him get down on his knees
And say a little prayer for me

[Chorus]
Daddy doesn't pray anymore
I guess he's finished talkin' to the Lord
He used to fold his hands and bow his head down to the floor
But daddy doesn't pray anymore
[Interlude]

[Bridge]
Today I followed daddy down to church
And listened to the preacher read God's word
And we sang his favorite hymn but daddy didn't make a sound
And this afternoon we'll lay him in the ground

[Chorus]
Daddy doesn't pray anymore
I guess he's finally walkin' with the Lord
He used to fold his hands and bow his head down to the floor
But daddy doesn't pray anymore

Chris Stapleton is a singer-songwriter who is widely known for his originality, a soulful voice, and music that creates a deep connection with the listeners. One of his most emotive songs is "Daddy Doesn't Pray Anymore."

About Daddy Doesn’t Pray Anymore

"Daddy Doesn't Pray Anymore" is an introspective track about Stapleton’s father that was written while his father was alive, but he didn't perform it until after his death. This song tells a poignant story about the relationship between fathers and sons, and how small acts of defiance can change relationships forever.

In an interview, Stapleton revealed that the concept of the song came to him when he went to visit his parents for a holiday. He shared that his dad was a very religious man who would say grace at every meal. One particular time, however, he didn’t say grace, and it struck Stapleton. Soon after, the phrase “Daddy Doesn’t Pray Anymore” was stuck in his head. He went back to Nashville and wrote the song, just filed it, and pulled it out later for his debut album, 'Traveller.'

The song features minimal instrumentation and is mostly built on Stapleton’s distinctive voice, which brings a somber and contemplative tone to the track. The lyrics reflect on the changes in his father's life that lead to a diminished faith, which was reflected in his behavior.

With the opening lyrics “Daddy doesn’t pray anymore / I guess he’s finished talking to the Lord," Stapleton gives the listener a glimpse into the conflict of faith and how it affects relationships within families. The song is about much more than a father who stopped praying; it's about a father who stopped believing, and along with it, the events that led to his detachment.

The second verse continues to paint the picture of the father’s change of behavior, singing, “Sundays now are blue, they’re just another day / Ain’t no pretty way to say goodbye.” This line is especially poignant, as it shows how faith was not only a Sunday matter but also an essential part of the Stapleton family's life.

The third and final verse of the song is where the pain of loss is felt most acutely. It tells the story of a son who has lost his father and wishes that he could have prayed with him. The verse goes, “I’d give anything to hear him say amen just one more time / But daddy doesn’t pray anymore.” The line conveys the permanent nature of the loss, which will not allow for the opportunity to pray with his father again.

"Daddy Doesn't Pray Anymore" is a beautiful and emotional track that captures the changing dynamics of a father-son relationship and the impact of faith on daily life.

Wrapping Up

Chris Stapleton has always been known for his ability to craft songs that speak to people's hearts. In "Daddy Doesn't Pray Anymore," he does exactly that, telling a story that many can relate to. The song is a testament to Stapleton’s songwriting abilities and emotional storytelling, making it a poignant and memorable track.

It is no surprise that "Daddy Doesn't Pray Anymore" has become a fan favorite, with many praises for its compelling storytelling and emotional depth. It is an excellent example of how music can inspire us, touch our souls, and make us feel connected to something larger than ourselves.