Meaning of "I'm Her Daddy" by Bill Withers

"I'm Her Daddy" by Bill Withers explores themes of fatherhood, abandonment, and regret. The song tells the story of a man named Lucy who learns about the existence of his six-year-old daughter. Feeling a deep desire to see his child, he expresses his emotions through heartfelt and poignant lyrics. The repetition of Lucy's name implies a sense of disappointment and betrayal. Lucy is depicted as the mother who withheld this significant information from him, causing him great distress and a sense of loss. The lyrics also highlight the protagonist's curiosity about his daughter's appearance, growth, and daily life. He wonders if she knows that he is her father and if a picture of him has been shared with her. By asking these questions, Withers portrays the yearning and longing that come with being separated from a loved one, especially a child. The phrase "you should 'a told me" is repeated, emphasizing the protagonist's remorse at not being part of his daughter's life earlier. Overall, the song captures the complex emotions of a father who discovers his child's existence after a significant period of time and expresses his desire to be a part of her life.