“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Papa What If” is a tender duet between country artist Rory Feek and his young daughter, Indiana (affectionately known as Indy). This heartfelt rendition reimagines Shel Silverstein’s classic song “Daddy What If,” originally popularized by Bobby Bare and his son in the early 1970s.
The song beautifully captures the innocent curiosity of a child through Indy’s sweet questions about the world, such as, “Papa, what if the sun stopped shining?” Rory responds with comforting, imaginative answers, creating a warm and engaging dialogue that feels like an intimate bedtime conversation.
This duet holds special significance for Rory, as he first heard “Daddy What If” as an eight-year-old boy riding through Kansas with his father. Later, he performed it with his eldest daughter, Heidi, during shows in the 1990s. Teaching the song to Indy became a cherished family tradition, with Rory adapting the lyrics to use “Papa” instead of “Daddy,” reflecting what Indy calls him.
Their collaboration culminated in a heartwarming music video filmed at their farmhouse, capturing the genuine bond between father and daughter. The simplicity of the arrangement allows their voices and connection to shine, resonating with listeners and evoking a sense of familial love and nostalgia.