On October 24, 2020, country singer and songwriter Jerry Jeff Walker passed away at the age of 78. Considered to be a pioneer in the outlaw country movement, Walker was perhaps best known for serving as the songwriter and original singer of the song “Mr. Bojangles.”
But as made clear by the number of tributes that came pouring out following the news of Walker’s passing, his influence extended far beyond a single song.
Country artists young and old took time to pause and remember just how extraordinary Walker was. Tim McGraw was one singer who wanted the world to know just how much Walker’s music meant to him.
McGraw shared an audio clip of himself singing Walker’s song “She Knows Her Daddy Sings.” Although it’s lesser-known than “Mr. Bojangles,” the song struck an emotional chord with McGraw, and sticks out to him as one of Walker’s most meaningful works.
As Walker once explained, he wrote “She Knows Her Daddy Sings” for his then-four-year-old daughter, who was born in April 1978. He said the idea came to him after he forgot to call home following a show one night.
McGraw, who shares three daughters with his wife Faith Hill, was drawn to the song. As he shared in a tribute post to Walker, he often sang “She Knows Her Daddy Sings” for his three girls while they were children:
“‘She Knows Her Daddy Sings’ was one of the songs I used to play for my girls when they were little,” McGraw said. “Thinking back on those days today….and missing you, Jerry Jeff Walker. Thank you for the songs.”
McGraw attached a video containing his rendition of “She Knows Her Daddy Sings,” which plays while different photos of Walker flash across the screen. You can listen to that tribute below.
Our hearts go out to Walker’s family and all who loved his music. He may be gone, but his legacy will live on as long as people like McGraw keep sharing his songs.