My Son

Jan Howard

About My Son

"My Son" is a single by American country music artist Jan Howard. Released in November 1968, the song reached #15 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The single was later released on Howard's 1969 self-titled album. The song was also written by Howard. The song additionally peaked at #28 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks chart, her first single to chart in Canada."My Son" was originally a letter Howard wrote to her son when he was a soldier during the Vietnam War. Three weeks after the single was issued, her son was killed in battle.  


Year:
1969
3,945 
#12

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My son my son I pray that you'll come home to me my son my son
It seems only yesterday the most important thing on your mind
Was whether you'd make the baseball team or get the new school jacket
Like all the other kids had

And I remember how your eyes lighted up when you got your first rod and reel
For that big fishing trip just you and your dad
And I remember wiping the tears away when you hurt yourself on your sled
In those days it seems the house was filled with laughter and joy
Filled with your friends and they were all such good boys
And then came the day that you walked down the aisle
To receive that all important diploma

I was so proud but I couldn't believe that tall young man was my son my wonderful son
And then I remember the little girl that was always around kinda tagging after you
She's not so little anymore but she's still around who knows maybe someday
Then you received the call that I guess we knew would come someday

But it came so quick and now you're so very far away
In the land that until a short time ago I didn't even know was there
I know the time will pass you'll be home again
But until that time my darling take care take special care
My son my son I pray that you'll come home to me my son my son

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Jan Howard

Lula Grace Johnson (born March 13, 1930), known professionally as Jan Howard, is an American country music singer and Grand Ole Opry star. She attained moderate success as a country female vocalist during the 1960s and early 1970s. Her ex-husband was singer-songwriter Harlan Howard. more »

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Written by: GARY WHITHEM, KERRY CHATER

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Country Music Fact
"My Son" is one of Jan Howard's most notable songs in her career as a country music artist. Known for her heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice, the song is representative of the classic country music style.
Release Date Fact
The song was released in 1968, at the height of the Vietnam War. This contextual time adds depth to the song's content which was inspired by a personal event in Howard's life.
Chart Performance Fact
"My Son" peaked at spot number 15 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs Chart in the U.S. Its chart success exemplified Jan Howard's continued growth and relevance in the country music scene during the late 1960s.
Song Context Fact
The song is a heartbreaking tribute to Howard's eldest son, Jimmy Van Howard, who was killed in action in Vietnam. Jan Howard wrote the song as a letter to him, expressing a mother's worry, hope, and love.
War Impact Fact
"My Son" was one of the most poignant songs of its time, reflecting the anguish and fear of many American parents who had children fighting overseas during the Vietnam War.
Personal Tragedy Fact
Ironically, the week the song was released, Jan received news that her son (the song was devoted to) was indeed killed in action.
Song Structure Fact
It has a unique structure. The song includes spoken words, a format not commonly found in many other songs. This gives the song a more personal feel as if Jan was having a direct conversation with her son.
Personal Contribution Fact
The song is a testament to Jan Howard's ability to channel personal pain into her music. She was often praised for her honest and emotional storytelling in her songs.
Award Fact
In 1968, her song "My Son" was nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Country & Western Vocal Performance, Female category.
Film Appearance Fact
"My Son" was featured in the 1970 documentary film, "First Tuesday in November" which offered a look at the lives of four American mothers who lost their sons in Vietnam.

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    "My Son Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 20 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/6179934/Jan+Howard/My+Son>.

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