“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Papa What If” is more than just a song; it’s a heartfelt conversation between a father and his daughter, wrapped in melody. Performed by country artist Rory Feek and his young daughter, Indiana (affectionately known as Indy), this duet captures the essence of familial love and the boundless curiosity of childhood.
Originally penned by Shel Silverstein and popularized by Bobby Bare and his son in the 1970s, the song poses a series of whimsical “what if” questions from a child to a parent. Rory, having cherished this tune since his own childhood, saw it as the perfect piece to share with Indy. He adapted the lyrics, replacing “Daddy” with “Papa,” to reflect Indy’s special name for him. To teach her the song, Rory used a creative approach: he wrote out the lyrics and illustrated them with crayons and markers, making the learning process both fun and engaging for Indy.
Their rendition is a gentle exchange of questions and reassurances, highlighting the tender bond they share. The simplicity of the acoustic arrangement allows their voices to shine, creating an intimate atmosphere that resonates with listeners. The accompanying video, set on their farmhouse porch during a serene sunset, further amplifies the song’s warmth and authenticity.
Beyond its musicality, “Papa What If” stands as a testament to the healing power of music and the enduring strength of family ties. Following the loss of his wife, Joey, in 2016, Rory has continued to nurture his daughter’s growth, both personally and musically. This duet not only showcases Indy’s budding talent but also serves as a poignant reminder of the love that binds families together.