Daddy Go Down
David Byrne · Feelings [1997]
The sun sinks low in the western lands
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
And a woman's heart is like the wind
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
And he could not put her from his mind
And love is strong and it will not die
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Protect me now from what I am
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
For I'm in too deep and I cannot swim
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
And he cursed his hands and he cursed his tongue
For what he'd said, for what he'd done
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Love, love, love's obsession
What keeps a man alive
By some strange possession
I stay safe inside
My heart's on probation
It was my first time
This world, world of wonders
Stick your head outside
Now the ass can speak but he don't say much
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
His words of wisdom, come but once
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
So build your house on solid ground
And stay indoors when the rain comes down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
And a woman's heart is like the wind
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
And he could not put her from his mind
And love is strong and it will not die
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Protect me now from what I am
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
For I'm in too deep and I cannot swim
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
And he cursed his hands and he cursed his tongue
For what he'd said, for what he'd done
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Love, love, love's obsession
What keeps a man alive
By some strange possession
I stay safe inside
My heart's on probation
It was my first time
This world, world of wonders
Stick your head outside
Now the ass can speak but he don't say much
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
His words of wisdom, come but once
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
So build your house on solid ground
And stay indoors when the rain comes down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Go down, daddy go-down, daddy oh daddy go-down
Daddy Go Down
David Byrne's "Daddy Go Down" serves as a standout track on the 1997 album *Feelings*, showcasing his signature blend of theatrical pop and rhythmic complexity. Recorded during a period where Byrne explored themes of family dynamics and personal vulnerability, the song features his distinctive vocal delivery layered over intricate production. As part of his broader discography, this recording reflects his continued evolution as an artist who merges pop sensibilities with avant-garde experimentation. The track stands as a testament to his ability to craft memorable musical narratives that resonate deeply with listeners, capturing the emotional weight of the era while maintaining his unique artistic voice.