The song "Daddy's Hands" by Shooter Jennings tells the story of a family's experience during Thanksgiving and Christmas. The lyrics paint a picture of a less than perfect family, with a house that smells like an ashtray and various conflicts among family members. The protagonist describes their father's aging hands, which serve as a reminder of how little they truly know. Their mother's nights become colder, symbolizing her growing emotional distance. The protagonist's partner prefers a colder and grayer environment over the glamour of Los Angeles, reflecting their own desire for simplicity and contentment. They also mention spending New Year's Eve in a hospital bed, implying that their father is ill or in poor health. Despite these challenges, the family still finds moments of joy and unity, such as sharing drinks for special occasions. Throughout the song, the protagonist pleads with their father not to leave them, emphasizing that it is not his time to go. The repeated refrain of "Come on Daddy, one more Christmas" shows their desire for more time together as a family, especially during the holiday season. Overall, "Daddy's Hands" captures the complicated dynamics within a family while expressing a deep longing for love, understanding, and togetherness.
