“Daddy Sang Bass” is one of those songs that instantly makes you feel like you’re part of a family gathering where everyone is welcome, and the air is filled with harmony and joy. Written by the legendary Carl Perkins and popularized by Johnny Cash, this gospel-infused country classic holds a special place in the hearts of its listeners. It’s not just a song; it’s a celebration of togetherness, faith, and the power of music to bring people closer.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of familial unity, with each member taking their part in a chorus of love and connection. The father’s deep bass voice, the mother’s high soprano, and the children chiming in the middle—it’s a simple yet profound metaphor for how every role, no matter how small, contributes to the bigger picture. And if you’ve ever been part of a choir or just sung with loved ones around the dinner table, you’ll know exactly what that feels like.
The song’s message is anchored in faith, but it’s universal enough to resonate with anyone who’s ever longed for the comfort of family and the hope of reunion. That promise of being together “in the sky, Lord, in the sky” is a balm for anyone missing loved ones or yearning for a sense of belonging.
Musically, “Daddy Sang Bass” is irresistibly catchy. Its rolling rhythm and joyful melody practically beg you to sing along. And when Johnny Cash’s iconic voice comes in, you can’t help but feel the weight of his sincerity and the warmth of his conviction.
Whether you’re listening for its spiritual message, its toe-tapping energy, or its heartwarming portrayal of family, “Daddy Sang Bass” offers something for everyone. It’s a song that lifts you up, reminds you of what matters, and keeps you humming long after the music fades
Video
Lyrics
I remember when I was a lad
Times were hard and things were bad
But there’s a silver linin’ behind ev’ry cloud
Just four people that ‘s all we were
Tryin’ to make a livin’ out of black-land dirt
But we’d get together in a family circle singin’ loud
Daddy sang bass (mama sang tenor)
Me and little brother would join right in there
Singin’ seems to help a troubled soul
One of these days and it won’t be long
I’ll rejoin them in a song
I’m gonna join the family circle at the throne
Though the circle won’t be broken
By and by, Lord, by and by
Daddy sang bass (mama sang tenor)
Me and little brother would join right in there
In the sky, Lord, in the sky
Now I remember after work mama would call in all of us
You could hear us singin’ for a country mile
Now little brother has done gone on
But I’ll rejoin him in a song
We’ll be together again up yonder in a little while
Daddy sang bass (mama sang tenor)
Me and little brother would join right in there
‘Cause singin’ seems to help a troubled soul
One of these days and it won’t be long
I’ll rejoin them in a song
I’m gonna join the family circle at the throne
Oh no the circle won’t be broken
By and by, Lord, by and by
Daddy sang bass (mama sang tenor)
Me and little brother would join right in there
In the sky, Lord, in the sky
In the sky, Lord, in the sky