Like Father Like Son
Rick Springfield · Other Songs - Rick Springfield
His daddy taught him respect, he taught him how to pray
They sent him off to boarding school
Where he learned how to live by someone else's rule
And he went to confession
He went to confession
Holy father wash my sins away
He went to confession, he went to confession
Mother Mary take the pain away
He read letters from home
At night in his bed
And got this uneasy feeling
When his father said
Fear of God and the feel of the rod
Will raise a good boy
The fear of God and the feel of the rod
Will raise a good boy
He bought his daddy's car and he learned to drive
And when he left school he got a nine to five
He met the girl and he got his spouse
And they had the child and they got the house
And he went to confession
He went to confession
Holy Father wash my sins away
He went to confession, he went to confession
Mother Mary take the pain away
He loved his son
And he helped him build walls and fronts
He knew he'd heard it before
Someone had said it once
Fear of God and the feel of the rod
Will raise a good boy
The fear of God and the feel of the rod
Will raise a good boy
He raised his son in the English way
And he taught him respect, he taught him how to pray
He sent him off to boarding school
Where he learned how to live by someone else's rules
And he went to confession
He went to confession
Holy father wash my sins away
He went to confession, he went to confession
Mother Mary take the pain away
It must be something much deeper
Than fear or pain
Another child learns a pattern
He won't break the chain
Fear of God and the feel of the rod
Will raise a good boy
The fear of God and the feel of the rod
Will raise a good boy
The fear of God and the feel of the rod
Will raise the next boy
Like Father Like Son
Rick Springfield's "Like Father Like Son" stands as a defining track from his 1981 self-titled debut album, capturing the raw energy and melodic sensibility that would characterize his career. Released during the height of his fame following "Jessie's Girl," the song blends rock and roll with a distinct pop-rock sheen, reflecting Springfield's signature blend of humor and heart. The recording showcases his powerful vocal delivery and songwriting prowess, themes often centered on family dynamics and generational connections. As a staple of his early discography, the track remains a quintessential example of late 1970s and early 1980s American rock music, resonating with audiences who appreciate its authentic, unpolished charm and enduring melody.