Introduction
George Jones’s 1985 single, “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes,” resonates with nostalgia and respect for country music legends. Capturing the essence of loss and legacy, this song paints a poignant picture of country music’s greats while asking who will carry on their legacy.
About The Composition
- Title: Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes
- Composer: Max D. Barnes, Troy Seals
- Premiere Date: June 8, 1985
- Album: Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes
- Genre: Country
Background
This song captures George Jones’s sentiment for fellow musicians such as Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. It expresses both admiration and a concern for the future, paying homage to icons while pondering who might inherit their place in the genre.
Musical Style
The song’s traditional country instrumentation and Jones’s soulful vocals combine to create a sound that feels as timeless as its message. With a poignant melody, it reverberates with Jones’s signature emotional depth.
Lyrics
The lyrics memorialize legendary artists, connecting the listener to both Jones’s affection and the legacy of country music. Each line is a heartfelt tribute.
Performance History
The song peaked at number three on the U.S. Country charts and became a fan favorite. Its music video, featuring memorabilia from country greats, won CMA’s Music Video of the Year in 1986, highlighting its impact.
Cultural Impact
“Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” stands as an anthem in the country music world. By invoking memories of influential artists, it underscores the genre’s rich heritage and its impact on generations.
Legacy
Today, “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” endures as a classic tribute, honoring the genre’s pioneers. Its timeless message reminds fans of the emotional legacy that country music preserves.
Conclusion
“Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” is more than a song; it’s a heartfelt homage. For those exploring country music’s history, George Jones’s rendition is a soulful tribute, with recordings available that perfectly capture the nostalgia of his voice.
Video
Lyrics
You know this old world is full of singers
But just a few are chosen
They tear your heart out when they sing
Imagine life without them
All your radio heroes
Like the outlaw that walks through Jesse’s dreams
No, there will never be another
Red-headed stranger
A man in black and Folsom prison blues
The Okie from Muskogee
Or hello darling
Lord, I wonder who’s gonna fill their shoes
Who’s gonna fill their shoes?
Who’s gonna stand that tall?
Who’s gonna play the Opry
And the Wabash cannonball?
Who’s gonna give their heart and soul
To get to me and you?
Lord, I wonder who’s gonna fill their shoes
God bless the boys from Memphis
Blue Suede shoes and Elvis
Much too soon, he left this world in tears
They tore up the 50s
Old Jerry Lee and Charlie
And “go cat go” still echoes through the years
You know the heart of country music
Still beats in Luke The Drifter
You can tell it when he sang, I Saw The Light
Old Marty, Hank, and Lefty
Why I can feel them right here with me
On this silver Eagle rolling through the night
Who’s gonna fill their shoes?
Who’s gonna stand that tall?
Who’s gonna play the Opry
And the Wabash cannonball?
Who’s gonna give their heart and soul
To get to me and you?
Lord, I wonder who’s gonna fill their shoes
Yes, I wonder who’s gonna fill their shoes