About the song
“Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” isn’t just a country song; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the giants who shaped the genre. Released in 1985 by George Jones, the song became a chart-topping hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. More than just a commercial success, “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” serves as a poignant reflection on the legacy of country music’s greatest artists.
The song’s lyrics are a veritable who’s who of country music royalty. From Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson to Elvis Presley and Hank Williams, Jones paints a picture of the iconic figures who have left an indelible mark on American music. The song’s central question – “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes?” – is a lament for the irreplaceable contributions of these legends. It’s a question that resonates with fans, sparking a conversation about the future of the genre and the artists who will carry the torch.
The song’s origins are steeped in serendipity. Songwriter Troy Seals presented the initial idea to Jones and producer Billy Sherrill. Within a day, Seals had crafted the entire song, its heartfelt lyrics and evocative melody capturing the essence of Jones’ vision. The accompanying music video further emphasized the song’s message. Set at a roadside gas station, the video features Jones encountering a fan with a vast collection of country music memorabilia. The final scene, depicting a young musician with a guitar gazing at Jones’ tour bus, embodies the spirit of the song, passing the torch to the next generation.
Despite its critical acclaim, “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” had an unintended consequence. Released at a time when many of the legendary artists it referenced were still actively performing, the song’s message of loss took on an ironic twist. However, this doesn’t diminish the song’s importance. “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring legacy of country music’s pioneers. It’s a song of appreciation, a call to action to honor the past while paving the way for a bright future for the genre.
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