From the recording Talking to Daddy (Wave File Format)
"Talking To Daddy" was written by Johnny McDonald and Bluegrass artist Valerie Smith. It touches on the subject of Parkinson's disease and dementia. Once a proud, strong man, Johnny's father suffered from the disease. "Talking to Daddy" reflects how Parkinson's robbed his father of his health, his memory, his ability to communicate, and ultimately his life. This song is dedicated to family and friends that are struggling with similar circumstances. Valerie Smith is a Country/Bluegrass artist that offers her talents to this song. The track also has a star-studded musical cast, such as Harmony Vocals: Jaelee Roberts, Guitar, and Mandolin: Danny Roberts, Fiddle: Gail Johnson, Bass: Andrea Roberts, Produced by Danny Roberts and Recorded, Mixed and Mastered by Dirk Johnson at DirkWorks Studio (Smyrna, TN).
Lyrics
Verse 1
Can you remember when Dad, when you fought in that war?
Bravely served your country, who could ask for more?
Dad, I love you, you’re my shining star.
But I’m sad, you don’t recall who you are.
Chorus
Talking to Daddy hurts these days
he’s Seldom awake and seems far away
I never thought I’d ever feel this way
Talking to Daddy really hurts these days.
Verse 2
You reached out so tenderly and touched mama’s hands
Thought to myself, this couldn’t be in God’s plans
Why take those memories from such a strong man,
The Love they shared those years through those wedding bands,
Chorus
Talking to Daddy hurts these days
Seldom is he awake and seems far away
Who would have thought I’d ever feel this way
Talking to Daddy really hurts these days.
Verse 3
Told me of your childhood and where you used to roam
How do I say? it’s no longer home
The old dirt roads are paved, and all your friends are gone
It’s so hard when you loose all the things you’ve known
Instrumental Break over a Chorus going into a break
Bridge
This morning God took you away
You’ll longer have to live this way
Chorus
Talking to Daddy Doesn’t hurt these days
I look to heaven and pray
that he’s laughing and singing with his dear sweet friends
No, talking to daddy doesn’t hurt these days.
Talking to daddy doesn’t hurt these days.