We're Sons of Our Fathers
Phil Collins · Both Sides [1993]
like my father was when I was young
I hope i can make him so proud of me
Proud enough to call me his son
What makes these people so different now
what makes these times so strange?
seems most people got most everything they need
how come we see this change
Our sons and daughters seem to be beyond our control
their smile is fading fast, they're losing their soul
when will we ever learn, yet I'm a believer
When I was a boy, did we have more respect?
this world seemed a nicer place to be
but time slowly passes and one day you look around
you hardly recognise what you see
Our sons and daughters seem to be beyond our control
their smile is fading fast, they're losing their soul
now when will we ever learn, yet I'm a believer
They're beyond our control
We're all sons of our fathers
sometimes I feel like mine
and I can hear him say, the things I say
seems all things come around in time
Why these things happen we'll never know
guess that was then and this is now
we always knew that change was gonna come
but I want to go back, please tell me how
Our sons and daughters seem to be beyond our control
their smile is fading fast, they're losing their soul
when will we ever learn, yet I'm a believer
We're Sons of Our Fathers
Phil Collins' "We're Sons of Our Fathers" stands as a poignant addition to his discography, reflecting the introspective and narrative-driven themes characteristic of his work during the early 1990s. Recorded for the album *Both Sides*, the track exemplifies Collins' ability to blend rock instrumentation with emotional depth, a hallmark of his evolution from synth-pop to a more mature, guitar-driven sound. The song explores familial dynamics and generational struggles, resonating with listeners through its honest portrayal of complex relationships. As part of his broader catalog, this recording contributes to his legacy as an artist who consistently addresses personal and societal issues with clarity and musical sophistication, maintaining relevance across decades of his career.