I grew up without a father
He’s been locked up since ’96
But there’s another man, he ain’t here no more
That raised me as a kid
We used to ride out to the battlefield
And he’d tell me stories ’bout the past
He taught me the things he knew I’d need to know
And answered all the questions that I’d ask
I hope he’s smiling up there lookin’ down
And proud of this wild child that came around
I got my pop’s last name
Still feel his hand here on my shoulder
I still hear him say
“You’ll understand when you get older”
Today, I couldn’t be any more grateful, thankful, or proud to say
I got my pop’s last name
I got my pop’s last name
He taught me, “Yes, Ma’am”, “No Ma’am”, “God is good” and “God is great”
Taught me elbows off the table
And always clean your plate
He said knowledge over money
‘Cause the ones with money always pay
He left little bits of gold like that all over the place
I got my pop’s last name
Still feel his hand here on my shoulder
I still hear him say
“You’ll understand when you get older”
Today, I couldn’t be any more grateful, thankful, or proud to say
I got my pop’s last name
I got my pop’s last name
Yeah
He gave it to his daughter and me
Along with all that love and all that time
And now here I am a father, proud to be
Giving his to mine
My pop’s last name
Still feel his hand here on my shoulder
My pop’s last name
I understand now that I’m older
Today, I couldn’t be any more grateful, thankful, or proud to say
I got my pop’s last name
I got my pop’s last name
Yeah
Rest in peace, Pop, I love you, buddy
Honoring a Father Figure: The Message Behind “Pop’s Last Name”
“Pop’s Last Name” by Kane Brown is a heartfelt tribute to the man who stepped in as a father figure during Brown’s formative years. The lyrics reflect on the absence of his biological father and the profound influence of the man he calls “Pop.” Brown paints vivid memories of shared moments, valuable lessons, and timeless advice—like the importance of manners, gratitude, and cherishing family traditions. The song’s emotional core centers on the pride and gratitude he feels for carrying on his pop’s legacy, both in name and spirit. Now a father himself, Brown expresses his intent to pass down the same love and wisdom to his own children, making the narrative deeply relatable for anyone who values family bonds and generational guidance.
Song Credits
- Artist: Kane Brown
- Release Year: 2019
- Label: RCA Nashville
- Songwriters: Kane Brown, Brock Berryhill, Shy Carter, Matt McGinn