Granddad Sings: Edwin Rayner on Music, Family, and Bonding Across Generations

Few things bring generations together like music can, and in a recent heartfelt episode of the Dad and Daughter Connection podcast, Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with the incredible Edwin Rayner—better known as "Granddad Sings"—to explore the timeless bonds between fathers, daughters, and granddaughters. This inspiring conversation is more than just a story of viral fame; it’s a touching lesson in love, support, resilience, and the ways we nurture one another through life’s changing seasons. The Heart of Fatherhood Right from the start, Dr. Lewis sets the tone: being a great dad is about true connection. Edwin Rayner, at 92 years young and an internet sensation thanks to the encouragement of his granddaughters, shares moving stories of fatherhood, like welcoming his daughters into the world and then watching them grow, stumble, and flourish through life’s ups and downs. His approach to parenting resonates: be present, offer gentle guidance, and let your children make their own way with your unwavering support behind them. Music as Family Glue Another beautiful theme in this episode is how music, both old and new, has woven throughout the Rayner family’s life. From singing while doing chores to making Christmas memories with Andy Williams’ carols, Edwin reminisces on how music naturally brought his family closer—creating traditions, sparking laughter, and even helping process loss. The revival of his singing career on TikTok, pushed by his granddaughters, not only sparked global joy but also deepened their family bonds. Their teamwork—picking songs together, going to the studio, encouraging Edwin to try new genres—shows how shared passions can bridge generational divides. Encouragement, Acceptance, and Growth Throughout their conversation, Edwin and Dr. Lewis emphasize the importance of encouragement, understanding, and letting our children and grandchildren find their unique voices. Even when they choose different paths (“I wish they were singers,” Edwin chuckles about his daughters), support and unconditional love shine through. Edwin’s advice to dads, granddads, and parents: be there, give encouragement, work together as a team, and celebrate each person’s journey. Tune In and Be Inspired Whether you’re a dad, a daughter, or simply someone who values meaningful connections, this episode is full of heartening wisdom and relatable moments. Listen to hear stories that will make you smile, reflect, and perhaps even sing along. Dive in at Dad and Daughter Connection and discover how music and love can help us all be the best family we can be. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:02]: Welcome to the dad and daughter connection, the podcast for dads who want to build stronger bonds and raise confident independent daughters. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:12]: If you're looking to build a stronger bond with your daughter and help her grow into a confident, independent woman, you're in the right place. I'm doctor Christopher Lewis, and the dad and daughter connection is the podcast where we dive into real stories, expert advice, and practical tips to help you navigate the incredible journey of fatherhood. In every episode, we'll bring you conversations that inspire, challenge, and equip you to show up as the dad your daughter needs. So let's get started because being a great dad isn't just about being there. It's about truly connecting. Welcome back to the dad and daughter connection, where every week we have an opportunity to be able to build those strong relationships, those strong connections that we want with our daughters. And I love being on this journey with you because it's an opportunity for us to be able to work together, to learn and grow together. You know, I've got two daughters, and as a father of a daughter, every day we need to be able to do something a little bit different. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:17]: To be able to connect with our daughters and to be able to be the dads that they need to support them in their journey. Every week I love being able to bring you different guests with different experiences, people that have gone through being a dad themselves, but also are going through it right now. And I I love that because every week you're going to learn something new and gain some new insight into things that you might be able to do to be able to build those strong relationships that you want. This week we got another great guest. Edwin Rayner is with us, and he is affectionately known as Granddad Sings. And he is 92 years old young and an Internet sensation who has captured the hearts of many with his song covers that he sings on TikTok and other platforms. And his journey into the spotlight began with the encouragement of his granddaughters, Laura and Liv, who introduced him to TikTok. And his rendition of Lana Del Rey's video games garnered 16,800,000 views, which is amazing. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:23]: I was introduced to him from some other ...