VA - Timeless Childhood Memories (A Butterboy Compilation) (4 x CDs)

CHILDHOOD

VA - Timeless Childhood Memories (A Butterboy Compilation) (4 x CDs)

Childhood is a unique and irreplaceable chapter of life. We all grow old, and in doing so learn a variety of lessons about life and our purpose. While some reminisce about it with fondness, others contemplate the changes they wish for their own children. Each experience, no matter how small, became a story, a treasure etched into the depths of our hearts. Some of the lessons we learn are difficult and painful, while others are happy. Reflecting on childhood is like flipping through a book filled with laughter, awe, and bittersweet longing for simpler times.

Songwriters have an extraordinary gift for taking profound emotions and weaving them into melodies and lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners. When it comes to childhood memories, they often delve into a treasure trove of feelings; nostalgia, wonder, innocence, and longing. Writing from a child’s perspective allows them to evoke the purity and magic of youth, creating a heartfelt connection to a time when the world seemed vast, mysterious, and full of possibilities.

Childhood songs hold the power to transcend time, weaving together moments of innocence, curiosity, and imagination with the profound emotions of longing and joy. Through these melodies, songwriters invite us to rediscover the magic of youth and the simplicity of being unburdened by adulthood. These lyrical tributes resonate deeply, as they rekindle cherished memories, transport us to sunlit afternoons and whimsical adventures, and help us reflect on the beauty of our shared humanity. As you explore this collection of music inspired by childhood, prepare to be swept away by the universal stories and emotions that celebrate the wonder, resilience, and creativity of those fleeting yet unforgettable years. Let the music guide you back to a time when life was boundless and full of endless possibilities. (B)

Here are 80 songs that beautifully capture the spirit of childhood, thoughtfully divided into four key themes as follows:  Please note - some can be used in multiple categories. 

Nostalgia and Youthful Innocence

Reliving the carefree magic of youth, these songs celebrate the simplicity, joy, and boundless imagination of childhood. They bring to life cherished memories of laughter, wonder, and heartfelt nostalgia.

Growth and Reflections on Life’s Journey 

These tracks delve into the bittersweet passage of time, portraying the triumphs and challenges of growing up, and the life lessons that carry us into adulthood.

Family, Bonds, and Relationships 

Celebrating the connections that define our early years, these songs highlight the influence of family, friendships, and shared experiences that shape who we are.

Places, Discovery, and Imagination 

These tracks take listeners on a journey through the landscapes of childhood; both real and fantastical, capturing the thrill of discovery and the unbounded creativity of a child’s mind.

For details of why these tracks were chosen to check out the details after the track list.

Enjoy!

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Track lists

CD1 Nostalgia and Youthful Innocence

01 Kate Bush - In Search of Peter Pan 3:46 1978

02 Masters' Apprentices - Living in A Child's Dream (Mono) 2:40 1967

03 Cat Stevens - (Remember The Days of The) Old Schoolyard 2:45 1977

04 Snail - Childhood Dreams 5:14 1978

05 Creedence Clearwater Revival - Green River 2:36 1969

06 Al Stewart - (A Child's View of) The Eisenhower Years 3:13 2008

07 Flaming Lips - Dinosaurs on the Mountain 3:38 2020

08 White Stripes - We're Going to Be Friends 2:22 2002

09 Smashing Pumpkins - 1979 4:23 1995

10 Beach Boys - When I Grow Up to Be A Man 2:02 1964

11 Arcade Fire - The Suburbs (Continued) 1:27 2010

12 Katie Melua - Plane Song 4:07 2016

13 Lynne & Sue - Childhood Dreams 3:32 1972

14 R.E.M. - Nightswimming 4:18 1992

15 Supergrass - Alright 3:01 1995

16 They Might Be Giants - Birdhouse in Your Soul 3:18 1990

17 Youth Lagoon - 17 3:56 2011

18 Owl City - Fireflies 3:48 2009

19 Ed Sheeran - Castle on the Hill 4:21 2017

20 Adele - When We Were Young 4:50 2015

CD2 Growth and Reflections on Life’s Journey 

01 Moody Blues - The Eyes of A Child (Part One) 3:23 1969

02 Moody Blues - The Eyes of A Child (Part Two) 1:23 1969

03 Electric Light Orchestra - When I Was A Boy 3:13 2015

04 J.S.D. Band - Childhood Memories 3:32 1971

05 Joni Mitchell - The Circle Game 4:55 1970

06 Daughter - Youth 4:11 2013

07 Glen Campbell - Arkansas Farmboy 3:31 2017

08 Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit - Dreamsicle 3:44 2020

09 Lucinda Williams - Car Wheels on A Gravel Road 4:44 1998

10 Lukas Graham - 7 Years 3:54 2015

11 Ben Folds - Still Fighting It 4:25 2001

12 Ataris - In This Diary 3:49 2003

13 Bob Dylan - Forever Young 5:03 1974

14 Tom Waits - Kentucky Avenue 4:49 1978

15 Nickelback - Those Days 3:39 2022

16 Neil Young - I Am A Child 2:12 1968

17 Harry Chapin - Cat's in the Cradle 3:48 1974

18 Supertramp - The Logical Song 4:11 1979

19 Michelle Shocked - When I Grow Up 3:30 1988

20 Van Morrison - A Sense of Wonder (Alt Take) 6:08 1985

CD3 Family, Bonds, and Relationships 

01 Brandi Carlile - Letter to The Past 3:40 2021

02 Beach Boys - In My Room 2:14 1963

03 Cat Stevens - Father and Son 3:42 1970

04 Crosby Stills Nash & Young - Teach Your Children 2:55 1970

05 Creedence Clearwater Revival - Born on The Bayou 3:50 1969

06 Men at Work - Be Good Johnny 3:36 1982

07 Pete Yorn - Velcro Shoes 3:50 2010

08 James Taylor - Copperline 4:22 1991

09 Kenny Loggins - Return to Pooh Corner 4:14 1994

10 Natalie Merchant - Spring and Fall  to A Young Child 3:05 2010

11 Suzanne Vega - Luka 3:51 1987

12 Robin Gibb - Days of Wine and Roses 4:15 2014

13 Gentle Giant - Schooldays 7:35 1972

14 Mavis Staples - Blood is Thicker Than Time 3:13 1993

15 Miranda Lambert - The House That Built Me 3:56 2009

16 Sara Storer - Every Boy Needs A Bike 3:37 2013

17 Lee Brice - Boy 3:19 2017

18 Taylor Swift - The Best Day 4:05 2021

19 Jill Andrews - The Kids Are Growing Up 3:24 2021

20 Brandi Carlile - The Mother 3:17 2018

CD4 Places, Discovery, and Imagination 

01 Van Morrison - Cyprus Avenue 6:56 1968

02 Ralph McTell - Barges 4:20 1999

03 Kate Bush - Cloudbusting 5:11 1985

04 Pink Floyd - See-Saw 4:37 1968

05 Bruce Springsteen - Growin' Up 3:06 1973

06 John Mellencamp - Jack & Diane 4:16 1976

07 Neil Diamond - Shilo 3:26 1967

08 Crosby Stills Nash & Young - Helpless 3:40 1970

09 Corinne Bailey Rae - Put Your Records On 3:34 2006

10 Michael Jackson - Childhood 4:27 1995

11 U2 - Stories for Boys 2:51 1983

12 Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds - Council Skies 4:42 2023

13 Court & Spark - AM Radio 4:32 1974

14 Alice in Chains - Angry Chair 4:47 1992

15 Weezer - In the Garage 3:55 1994

16 Los Lobos - Kiko and the Lavender Moon 3:35 1992

17 Montgomery Gentry - Back When I Knew it All 3:59 2008

18 Lukas Graham - Mama Said 3:26 2014

19 Stevie Wonder - I Wish 4:13 1982

20 Gandalf - Reflections From Childhood 3:13 1983

Why these tracks were chosen.

CD1     Nostalgia and Youthful Innocence

Reliving the carefree magic of youth, these songs celebrate the simplicity, joy, and boundless imagination of childhood. They bring to life cherished memories of laughter, wonder, and heartfelt nostalgia.

01 Kate Bush -In Search of Peter Pan The track delves into the universal desire to hold onto childhood wonder, using Peter Pan as a metaphor for escapism and innocence.

02 Masters Apprentices - Living in a Child's Dream. Its themes of reminiscing about childhood, coupled with its dreamy and imaginative tone, align perfectly with the celebration of carefree moments and the magic of early

03 Cat Stevens - (Remember The Days Of) The Old Schoolyard A nostalgic look back at friendships and playful innocence, reminding us of the unfiltered happiness we once shared in the schoolyard.

04 Snail - Childhood Dreams This serene and reflective piece celebrates the unbounded imagination of childhood, inviting listeners to revisit a time when every corner of the world seemed magical and full of wonder. The song's imagery evokes serene, fantastical places that exist purely within a child’s dreams.

05 Creedence Clearwater Revival - Green River An ode to nature and its role in cherished childhood memories, this song connects places to a sense of emotional security and nostalgia.

06 Al Stewart - (A Child's View Of) The Eisenhower Years By reflecting on life post-WWII, this track gives a heartfelt glimpse of optimism and simplicity from a child’s perspective during an era of global transformation.

07 Flaming Lips - Dinosaurs on the Mountain Brimming with creativity and wonder, the song takes listeners into the fantastical landscapes of a child’s imagination.

08 White Stripes - We're Going to Be Friends A tender ode to the magic of new beginnings in childhood, particularly the innocence of friendship at school.

09 Smashing Pumpkins - 1979 A poetic celebration of adolescence, this song highlights fleeting, rebellious moments that define coming-of-age experiences.

10 Beach Boys - When I Grow Up To Be A Man Posing questions about the future while embracing youthful curiosity, the song perfectly captures life’s transition points.

11 Arcade Fire - The Suburbs (continued) Explores suburban childhood with an underlying complexity, balancing nostalgia for simpler times with the realities of change.

12 Katie Melua - Plane Song An emotionally rich song, it reflects on memories of family, love, and moments that shaped a sense of belonging.

13 Lynne & Sue - Childhood Dreams this is a tender reflection on the beauty of childhood aspirations and the innocence they carry.

14 R.E.M. - Nightswimming Captures fleeting moments of summer nights spent swimming, evoking nostalgia and an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

15 Supergrass - Alright Vibrant and carefree, this anthem encapsulates the boundless energy of youth, with camaraderie and optimism taking center stage.

16 They Might Be Giants - Birdhouse in Your Soul With its whimsical narrative from a nightlight’s point of view, this song showcases childlike imagination and creativity.

17 Youth Lagoon - 17 is a poignant reflection on the transition from childhood to adulthood. The song captures a sense of nostalgia and longing for the innocence and imagination of youth.

18 Owl City - Fireflies Mixing elements of surrealism and childhood imagination, this dreamy track creates a whimsical landscape of glowing lights and wonder.

19 Ed Sheeran - Castle on the Hill A heartfelt tribute to Ed’s teenage years, recounting friendships, adventures, and places that helped shape his identity.

20 Adele - When We Were Young The song beautifully portrays the passage of time and the yearning to relive precious moments of youth with the same vibrancy as before.

CD2     Growth and Reflections on Life’s Journey 

These tracks delve into the bittersweet passage of time, portraying the triumphs and challenges of growing up, and the life lessons that carry us into adulthood.

01 Moody Blues - Eyes of A Child I A heartfelt celebration of the purity and wonder of seeing the world through the eyes of a child, emphasizing a childlike openness to discovery.

02 Moody Blues - Eyes of A Child II A continuation of the first track, this piece focuses on the lessons and wisdom gained as one grows older, expanding on the journey from innocence to understanding.

03 Electric Light Orchestra - When I Was A Boy A wistful ode to childhood dreams, this track nostalgically contrasts youthful aspirations with the reality of adulthood, emphasizing the beauty of those early dreams.

04 J.S.D. Band  - Childhood Memories is a nostalgic track from their 1971 album Country of the Blind. The song reflects on the simplicity and innocence of childhood, capturing the essence of youthful wonder and the bittersweet nature of growing up. Its folky style and heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of longing for the carefree days of the past, while also acknowledging the inevitable passage of time.

05 Joni Mitchell - The Circle Game A poetic and contemplative piece about life’s cycles and the inevitability of growth. It celebrates transitions while mourning the passage of time.

06 Daughter - Youth A haunting exploration of heartbreak and fragility, this song captures the fleeting nature of youthful innocence and the emotional turbulence of growing up.

07 Glen Campbell - Arkansas Farmboy A heartfelt song about Campbell's upbringing, it reflects on life in rural Arkansas and the values instilled by family, hardship, and community.

08 Jason Isbell And The 400 Unit - Dreamsicle This song reflects on childhood summers and the sensory experiences that evoke nostalgic emotions. It paints vivid imagery of familial change and growth.

09 Lucinda Williams - Car Wheels On A Gravel Road A richly descriptive track that transports the listener to a Southern childhood, marked by detailed imagery of place and emotion.

10 Lukas Graham - 7 Years Chronicles life’s key milestones, exploring themes of ambition, love, family, and legacy as the narrator reflects on his journey through time.

11 Ben Folds - Still Fighting It A deeply personal ode to parenthood, this track juxtaposes a father’s reflections on his own youth with the wisdom he hopes to impart to his child. Its themes are rooted in love and the inevitable passage of time.

12 Ataris - In This Diary A reflective anthem capturing the joy, lessons, and bittersweet nostalgia of youth. This song acts as a diary of formative experiences, balancing carefree adventures with self-awareness.

13 Bob Dylan - Forever Young A timeless wish and blessing, this song encourages listeners to maintain their integrity, kindness, and zest for life while navigating its various stages.

14 Tom Waits - Kentucky Avenue A moving and vivid recount of childhood memories, this track captures the bittersweet realities of growing up amidst adversity and mischief.

15 Nickelback - Those Days A joyful, nostalgic celebration of carefree teenage years, immortalizing moments of innocence, rebellion, and youthful energy.

16 Neil Young - I Am a Child This track examines the purity and curiosity of childhood, offering a poignant celebration of how children experience and interpret the world.

17 Harry Chapin - Cat's in the Cradle A poignant cautionary tale highlighting the generational cycle, this track explores how missed opportunities can lead to strained relationships between parents and children.

18 Supertramp - The Logical Song A profound reflection on the journey from childhood innocence to adult pragmatism. It explores how society imposes structure and responsibility on a once-boundless sense of wonder.

19 Michelle Shocked - When I Grow Up is a whimsical and imaginative song that reflects on life's journey with humor and creativity. The lyrics express a playful desire to grow old and embrace life's eccentricities, such as raising a large family and enjoying simple, surreal moments like watching the sun melt in summer or the moon freeze in winter. It's a celebration of individuality, unconventional dreams, and the joy of embracing life's quirks.

20 Van Morrison - A Sense of Wonder (Alt Take) A beautifully contemplative track that celebrates discovery, growth, and the awe inspired by life’s transformative experiences.

CD3     Family, Bonds, and Relationships 

Celebrating the connections that define our early years, these songs highlight the influence of family, friendships, and shared experiences that shape who we are.

01 Brandi Carlile - Letter To The Past A touching reflection on family history and legacy, this song explores how the past shapes present identity and emotions, tying generations together.

02 Beach Boys - In My Room A deeply introspective song that captures the sanctity of personal space, where one can find solace, reflect on life, and build connections in moments of solitude.

03 Cat Stevens - Father And Son A poignant dialogue between a father and son, this song explores generational tensions, with the father offering advice and the son yearning for independence.

04 Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young - Teach Your Children A timeless message of intergenerational wisdom, this track emphasizes the importance of passing on values and lessons from one generation to the next.

05 Creedence Clearwater Revival - Born On The Bayou A vivid celebration of familial roots and cultural heritage, this track captures the warmth and nostalgia of growing up surrounded by tradition.

06 Men At Work - Be Good Johnny A playful yet insightful portrayal of childhood, this track captures the challenges of navigating parental expectations and a child’s natural curiosity.

07 Peter Yorn - Velcro Shoes A sweet and nostalgic track highlighting the small yet meaningful milestones of childhood, tied to familial love and care.

08 James Taylor - Copperline A richly descriptive and sentimental look at the places and people that defined Taylor’s childhood, steeped in vivid imagery and longing for simpler times.

09 Kenny Loggins - Return To Pooh Corner A wistful song blending childhood nostalgia with the perspective of adulthood, drawing comfort from the timeless stories of youth.

10 Natalie Merchant - Spring And Fall: To a Young Child A poetic meditation on the passage of time, this track reflects on the fleeting nature of youth and the bittersweet beauty of growth.

11 Suzanne Vega - Luka A powerful and empathetic track tackling difficult family dynamics and childhood trauma, shining a light on resilience and understanding.

12 Robin Gibb - Days of Wine and Roses A poignant reflection on fleeting moments of happiness, capturing the fragility and preciousness of bonds formed in relationships. 

13 Gentle Giant - Schooldays A nostalgic reflection on school friendships and formative years, exploring how the bonds forged during that time shape our lives.

14 Mavis Staples - Blood Is Thicker Than Time A soulful celebration of familial love and shared history, this track emphasizes the unshakable strength of family connections.

15 Miranda Lambert - The House That Built Me An emotional journey back to one’s childhood home, this song explores the profound impact of formative places on personal identity.

16 Sara Storer - Every Boy Needs A Bike This heartwarming song captures the joy and freedom of childhood, emphasizing the shared family moments that accompany youthful exploration.

17 Lee Brice - Boy A tender track reflecting on a father’s deep bond with his son, watching him grow up while cherishing the fleeting nature of their time together.

18 Taylor Swift - The Best Day (Taylor's Version) is a heartfelt tribute to her mother, Andrea Swift, and her family. The song reflects on Taylor's childhood and the special bond she shares with her mom. Through vivid storytelling, she recalls moments of comfort, love, and support during both joyful and challenging times.

19 Jill Andrews - The Kids Are Growing Up This bittersweet track captures the pride and poignancy of watching children grow and transition into their own lives, balancing joy with a sense of loss.

20 Brandi Carlile - The Mother A heartfelt ode to the transformative experience of motherhood, balancing its challenges with the unparalleled joy and fulfillment it brings.

CD4     Places, Discovery, and Imagination 

These tracks take listeners on a journey through the landscapes of childhood; both real and fantastical, capturing the thrill of discovery and the unbounded creativity of a child’s mind.

01 Van Morrison - Cyprus Avenue A reflective and vividly descriptive track tied to a specific place from the artist’s youth. It blends nostalgia with a sense of yearning, portraying a deep personal connection to formative landscapes.

02 Ralph McTell - Barges A poetic and tranquil song that evokes images of peaceful riverside explorations and the simple joys of childhood. It symbolizes the innocence of discovery, and the serenity found in nature’s beauty.

03 Kate Bush - Cloudbusting Inspired by her father’s creative and scientific pursuits, this song blends symbolic storytelling with themes of love, loss, and connection. The imaginative landscapes bring forth the beauty of shared dreams and emotional bonds between parent and child.

04 Pink Floyd - See Saw A dreamy and abstract track that explores fragmented memories and shifting emotions, symbolizing the fluctuating nature of relationships and the passage of time.

05 Bruce Springsteen - Growin' Up A reflective coming-of-age anthem, this track captures the struggles and triumphs of adolescence. It portrays the rebelliousness of youth and the journey toward self-discovery, embodying the spirit of resilience and finding one’s path.

06 John Mellencamp - Jack & Diane This iconic track tells the story of two young lovers navigating small-town life. It reflects on the fleeting nature of youth and the inevitability of growing up, while celebrating the beauty of living in the moment.

07Neil Diamond - Shilo A nostalgic and personal track about the comfort of an imaginary friend, Shilo, during lonely childhood years. It delves into themes of escape, emotional resilience, and the longing for connection.

08 Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young - Helpless A hauntingly nostalgic song about yearning for home and simpler times. Its vivid imagery of a small town and childhood memories encapsulates a deep emotional longing for the innocence and safety of youth.

09 Corinne Bailey Rae - Put Your Records On A feel-good anthem of self-expression and personal freedom, this song evokes the sunny landscapes of independence and confidence. Its imagery of records and open skies creates an atmosphere of warmth and reassurance, celebrating individuality.

10 Michael Jackson - Childhood (Theme from "Free Willy 2") A poignant reflection on the yearning to reconnect with the simplicity and wonder of youth. This track blends nostalgia and emotion, capturing the longing for freedom and innocence lost in adulthood.

11 U2 - Stories For The Boys Captures the adventurous and imaginative spirit of youth, where real and imagined places blend seamlessly. The song celebrates camaraderie and the shared experiences of childhood storytelling.

12 Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds - Council Skies This song reflects on the emotional resonance of familiar landscapes, blending personal nostalgia with the beauty of finding meaning in ordinary surroundings. It celebrates the groundedness and connection we find in our roots.

13 Court & Spark - AM Radio A nostalgic ode to the golden age of AM radio, this song highlights the role of music in shaping personal and cultural memories. It evokes images of carefree days and the unique way radio connected people during simpler times.

14 Alice in Chains - Angry Chair This introspective track explores the emotional pain and isolation tied to formative struggles. The "angry chair" serves as a metaphor for the darker places people create for themselves during internal conflicts, reflecting on themes of regret and self-awareness.

15 Weezer - In The Garage A nostalgic ode to personal sanctuary, the garage represents a space where the artist feels safe to express themselves freely. It highlights themes of individuality, creativity, and the comforts of solitude.

16 Los Lobos - Kiko And The Lavender Moon A whimsical and surreal track, it celebrates the endless creativity and fantastical landscapes of childhood imagination. The song’s magical tone transports listeners to otherworldly places filled with vibrant imagery.

17 Montgomery Gentry - Back When I Knew It All A reflective and introspective song that explores youthful arrogance and the realization of how little we truly know as we grow older. It conveys humility and wisdom gained through life’s experiences.

18 Lukas Graham - Mama Said This heartfelt track reflects on family values and lessons imparted by a parent. It emphasizes how these values shape resilience and determination, serving as a guiding light throughout life’s challenges.

19 Stevie Wonder - I Wish A joyful and vibrant celebration of youthful innocence, this song reminisces about carefree childhood days and the sense of wonder and freedom experienced during those years.

20 Gandalf - Reflections From Childhood captures the innocence, wonder, and simplicity of youth through its ethereal melodies and soothing tones. The music evokes a sense of nostalgia and introspection, inviting listeners to reconnect with their inner child and reflect on the formative moments of their lives.

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