New Documentary Explores Harry Chapin’s “Cat’s in the Cradle” With Billy Joel, Pat Benatar, and More
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A Film Honoring a Classic Song
A new documentary will shine a light on Harry Chapin’s timeless 1974 folk-rock anthem “Cat’s in the Cradle.” Titled Cat’s in the Cradle: The Song That Changed Our Lives, the film will be released on DVD and digital video on November 4. It marks the 50th anniversary of the hit while exploring its influence on music, family life, and cultural reflection.
The project features well-known artists who share their thoughts on the song’s universal themes, including parenthood, relationships, and the passing of time. Among those appearing are Billy Joel, Pat Benatar, Judy Collins, Dee Snider of Twisted Sister, Darryl “D.M.C.” McDaniels, and Robert Lamm of Chicago.
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Premiere Events in New York
Before its official release, the documentary will debut on October 30 at the Tribeca Film Center in New York City. That evening will include a conversation with director Rick Korn, Harry’s brother Tom Chapin, and his children Jen and Jason, with Jason serving as one of the film’s producers.
Another screening will take place on November 1 at the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington, New York, Chapin’s hometown. This special showing will benefit both Long Island Cares and the Cinema Arts Centre. It will also feature live performances, including a set by Tom Chapin. Tickets for both events are already available.
The Legacy of the Song
“Cat’s in the Cradle,” co-written by Harry and his wife Sandy, was released on the 1974 album Verities and Balderdash. The song became his biggest hit, climbing to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in December 1974, where it stayed for one week.
The track tells the story of a father who is too busy for his son during childhood. Later in life, when the father wants to connect, the son mirrors his father’s earlier neglect. The closing line, “My boy was just like me,” remains one of the most memorable and haunting reflections in popular music.
Harry Chapin’s Broader Work
Chapin’s career was filled with narrative-driven songs, including his 1972 hit “Taxi.” Beyond music, he was widely respected for his charity work. He co-founded World Hunger Year, now known as WhyHunger, an organization that continues to support communities worldwide. Tragically, Chapin’s life was cut short in 1981 when he died in a car accident at just 38 years old. He was on his way to perform a free concert.
Fans will also be treated to a new release, as Now Playing, a 10-track compilation of Chapin’s storytelling ballads, arrives on November 14. The collection highlights both his dramatic and humorous songs, offering a snapshot of his unique voice in American music.
Reflections from the Filmmakers
Director Rick Korn emphasized the song’s lasting reach. “What makes this song so amazing is the multi-generational and multi-cultural effect it has on people around the world even to this day,” he said. “However, what makes this song and film unique is that it gave Harry a platform to launch his hunger charities like WhyHunger. Fifty years later, WhyHunger is helping millions of people in 24 countries around the globe at a very crucial time in world history.”
Jason Chapin, Harry’s son and one of the film’s producers, shared his own perspective. “My father wrote many unforgettable story songs but ‘Cat’s in the Cradle’ is by far his best known and it continues to have an impact on millions of people around the world. I’m thrilled at how the film captures so many wonderful stories about the song and my father told by music legends, fans, family and others.”
