A lovely family song

[2026] A roundup of classic Western songs themed around grandfathers and grandmothers

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Just as Japan has Respect for the Aged Day, the United States and Italy have “Grandparents Day,” albeit not officially in some cases, and China has days such as the Double Ninth Festival to honor the elderly.

In Japan, where nuclear families are increasingly common, many people may find it difficult to see their grandparents, and the feelings of gratitude and care for older adults are truly universal.

In this article, we’ve researched classic Western songs themed around grandfathers and grandmothers, gathering a wide range of tracks from various eras and genres.

Alongside country music—which often features songs about family—and timeless classics, we’ve also included recent hits and tracks from unexpected genres.

Enjoy this diverse lineup!

[2026] A Collection of Classic Western Songs Themed Around Grandfathers and Grandmothers (71–80)

He Walked on WaterRandy Travis

Randy Travis – He Walked On Water (Official Music Video)

He Walked on WaterRandy Travis

Randy Travis, a country singer who represents America.

Let me introduce “He Walked On Water,” a song that soothes the soul with his gentle voice.

The track was originally written by Allen Shamblin with his great-grandfather in mind, and Randy Travis is said to sing it with heartfelt emotion, relating it to his own grandfather.

Pay attention to the elements that evoke the passage of history—like cowboys—woven throughout the song.

Also, don’t miss the music video, which was filmed at his grandfather’s house.

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AutumnPaolo Nutini

Paolo Nutini – Autumn

AutumnPaolo Nutini

A track from the debut album by Paolo Nutini, a singer-songwriter from Paisley, Scotland.

The song is about his grandfather, who passed away when Paolo was 12 years old.

It was co-written with Jim Duguid.

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The SeaCorinne Bailey Rae

Corinne Bailey Rae – The Sea

The SeaCorinne Bailey Rae

This song is the title track from singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae’s second studio album, released in 2010.

It was written about the death of her grandfather, who died in a tragic boating accident.

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GrandpaJustin Moore

Justin moore – grandpa.wmv

GrandpaJustin Moore

Justin Moore is known as one of America’s leading country musicians.

While many people associate country music with a more pop-leaning sound, Justin Moore remains steadfastly devoted to traditional country.

A work that really showcases his musical style is Grandpa.

As the title suggests, it’s a heartwarming piece themed around a grandfather.

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In conclusion

We’ve introduced songs about grandmothers and grandfathers from a variety of genres, and it’s interesting how the specific themes and stories differ from artist to artist.

Some tracks don’t reveal they’re about grandparents just from the title, and I’d be delighted if you discovered that a song you’d been casually listening to was actually themed around grandparents!