Zachary Mason’s latest single “Fathers” is a breathtaking folk-pop exploration of the profound bond between fathers and children. Hailing from Guildford, England, Mason has crafted a deeply intimate musical landscape that resonates with raw emotional authenticity.
The track opens with delicately picked acoustic guitars, gradually layering string pads and subtle instrumentation that create an immediately introspective atmosphere. Mason’s warm, sincere vocals carry the weight of familial connection, transforming a personal narrative into a universal experience of love and gratitude.
Lyrically, the song is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. Lines like “a father’s eye is a child’s sky” capture the magical perspective of childhood, where parents seem omniscient and infinitely protective. Mason eloquently portrays the transformative nature of fatherhood – how becoming a parent fundamentally reshapes one’s entire existence.
The minimalist folk production allows the song’s emotional core to shine, with each guitar note and vocal nuance carefully considered. It’s a track that manages to be simultaneously melancholic and hopeful, inviting listeners to reflect on their own familial relationships.
For those who appreciate music that serves as an emotional mirror, “Fathers” is an essential listen – a tender, vulnerable exploration of love that will likely bring a tear to the eye and warmth to the heart.
Watch to ‘Fathers’
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What inspired you to write a song specifically titled “Fathers”? Is there a personal story behind this track?
I am fortunate to have a very loving and supportive father, and this song is in part drawn from what I see in him as a father and how he feels about his son.
Also, I had an idea a little while ago to do something (be it a song, poem or prose) about fatherhood and how becoming a father changes a person and their outlook on life.
Can you walk me through the emotional journey you were experiencing while creating this song?
It can be difficult to describe emotions accurately can’t it- easier perhaps in our artistry than in more matter-of-fact statements!
Putting it simply though, I would say love is a crucial part of this song: love for a father through the love he feels for you…
I think as well that this song explores the meaning and import of becoming a father, and so I felt that profound sense of meaning that I guess a lot of artists discover when delving into life’s deeper channels of meaning- a sort of wonder and sense of discovery…
How does “Fathers” differ from your previous musical releases in terms of sound or message?
Though some will see similarities in the general style and arrangement of the single in my past releases, there are some differences. The lyrics are perhaps more likely to resonate deeply with certain people; also, this is the first folk-orientated track I have released that was produced by Derrick Lin, someone I have worked with only for a short while but who has introduced a new dynamic to my work.
Who did you collaborate with on the production and arrangement of “Fathers”?
The songwriting, lyrics and recording was all me; but, as mentioned above, Derrick Lin was the man who achieved the final polish. The song was mixed and mastered in a couple of days or so and I was grateful for the quick work!
What genre would you say this song fits into, and how does it represent your artistic growth?
I’d say there’s definitely a Folk Folk/Pop connection here…
In terms of my growth: It’s another single, another work under my belt- and also a new theme which I’ve given some thought and learnt things from.
Were there any challenges you encountered while writing or recording this song?
I don’t always have the best of health and I wasn’t feeling my best when I did this track… It got done though and I’m pleased with the outcome!
How do you hope listeners will connect with or interpret the message of “Fathers”?
I hope that fathers, sons and families fall in love with this song and that it becomes an image to them of their own love and cherished memories.
As with all my songs, people are welcome to take a step into my world which, quite often, has taken a step into theirs…
Are there any specific lines or verses in the song that hold particular significance for you?
I guess the chorus “They made you live” is a simple yet profound summary of the song’s message regarding fatherhood… “Once just a man… It changes everything…” is also an important line I feel- underlining the powerful impact of becoming a father on a person’s inner and outer life.
Do you have plans for a music video or live performances to accompany this release?
There’s already a lyric video up on my YouTube channel that people can watch. I made it myself- I hope you like it!
I don’t perform live at the moment so I’ve nothing to announce on that matter.
How does “Fathers” reflect your personal experiences or perspectives on family and relationships?
I sense something of my own father in the song- the rest is my own analysis and perception of the subject.
I’m grateful to have such a fine father: without him, this song would likely have gone unwritten- or would be completely different!
What can fans expect next from you after the release of this song?
Well as I’ve been telling people on my socials and the website, this song is a brief break from the more rock-oriented sound I’ve been releasing of late, so for the next release you can expect something in the rock genre!
And if you are a fan of mine, may I take this opportunity to say a warm: “Thank you!”
Zachary Mason
