"Watching Scotty Grow" is a heartwarming song written and performed by Bobby Goldsboro. The lyrics depict a father's love and admiration for his young son, Scotty, as he observes him maturing and experiencing various milestones in his life. The song begins with the father sitting with a pen and yellow pad, watching his son who is writing or drawing. The father expresses joy in seeing his "handsome lad" and proudly spells out the letters B-R-L-F-Q, which represents "mom and dad." Despite the challenges of life, the father realizes that having his son is a wonderful blessing. The father then contrasts the superficial pleasures of the world such as TV, nightclubs, and drive-in picture shows with the joy he finds in spending time with his son. He cherishes their moments together, listening to the radio and seeing Scotty grow. This sentiment is emphasized by the repeated phrase "Biding my time watching Scotty grow." As the song progresses, the father observes Scotty's imagination and creativity as he builds castles with blocks and cardboard boxes. Even when Scotty hears Micky Mouse saying it's thirteen o'clock, a humorous and improbable time, the father appreciates his son's innocent wonder of the world. The lyrics reflect on the father's personal journey, mentioning how he has gone from "rags to riches" in four short years. He acknowledges that he doesn't know what he did before that time, as his son has brought newfound happiness and fulfillment to his life. The rain on the windowpane serves as a metaphor for life's hardships, but the father finds his own rainbow in the form of his son. The song continues by portraying sweet bedtime moments where the father plays the role of a caretaker, carrying Scotty on his shoulders and tucking him into bed. Scotty asks for a drink of water and a bedtime story, and his father obliges, showing his love and tenderness. A teddy bear named Fred is also mentioned, symbolizing Scotty's innocence and the comfort he finds in his toys. In the final verses, Scotty's mother asks the father to come warm his feet, but he asks her to save him a place. Before joining them, he decides to stay and say a little prayer while watching his son sleep. The song concludes with the father stating, "Me and God are watching Scotty grow," expressing the father's faith and belief in the importance of being present for his son's growth. Overall, "Watching Scotty Grow" is a touching tribute to the love between a father and his son. It highlights the cherished moments shared between them and the joy found in witnessing a child's journey of growth and development.
