About The Song
n the vast landscape of country music, there are those towering figures who have left an indelible mark on the genre, their voices and songs echoing through the ages, shaping the sound and soul of country music for generations to come. George Jones, a true icon of country music, stands among these giants, his name synonymous with heartfelt ballads, soulful vocals, and a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate listeners worldwide.
“Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” is a poignant tribute to these legendary figures, a heartfelt lament for the irreplaceable contributions of those who have paved the way for countless artists and shaped the very essence of country music. Released in 1985, the song became an instant classic, resonating deeply with audiences and critics alike, earning Jones a well-deserved spot among the genre’s elite.
As the opening notes of “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” gently caress the ears, Jones’s emotive voice takes center stage, weaving a tapestry of poignant lyrics that capture the profound impact of country music’s pioneers. The song paints a vivid picture of a world without these musical heroes, a world where their voices are silenced, their songs no longer heard, their legacy at risk of fading into obscurity.
“You know this old world is full of singers, but just a few are chosen to tear your heart out when they sing,” Jones laments, his voice resonating with the weight of loss and the realization of the irreplaceable nature of these musical giants. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, a longing for the past and the golden era of country music when these legends graced the stage and filled the air with their unforgettable melodies.
The chorus of “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” is a powerful refrain that echoes throughout the song, capturing the essence of the tribute and the profound impact of these country music legends. “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?” Jones sings, his voice filled with emotion and the weight of this unanswered question.
In the verses that follow, Jones paints vivid portraits of these musical heroes, their voices and songs forever etched in the hearts and minds of country music fans. He speaks of their dedication to their craft, their passion for storytelling, and their ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. “They sang the songs of life and love, they sang the songs of pain,” Jones sings, his voice filled with admiration and respect.
“Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the enduring power of country music and the profound impact of its legends. It’s a reminder of the irreplaceable contributions of those who have shaped the genre and left an indelible mark on the hearts and souls of countless listeners. As Jones’s voice fades into the final notes of the song, the question lingers: “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes?” The answer may be uncertain, but the legacy of these country music legends will forever live on, their voices and songs continuing to inspire and captivate generations to come.
Video
Lyric
You know this old world is full of singersBut just a few are chosenThey tear your heart out when they singImagine life without themAll your radio heroesLike the outlaw that walks through Jesse’s dreamsNo, there will never be anotherRed-headed strangerA man in black and Folsom prison bluesThe Okie from MuskogeeOr hello darlingLord, I wonder who’s gonna fill their shoesWho’s gonna fill their shoes?Who’s gonna stand that tall?Who’s gonna play the OpryAnd the Wabash cannonball?Who’s gonna give their heart and soulTo get to me and you?Lord, I wonder who’s gonna fill their shoesGod bless the boys from MemphisBlue Suede shoes and ElvisMuch too soon, he left this world in tearsThey tore up the 50sOld Jerry Lee and CharlieAnd “go cat go” still echoes through the yearsYou know the heart of country musicStill beats in Luke The DrifterYou can tell it when he sang, I Saw The LightOld Marty, Hank, and LeftyWhy I can feel them right here with meOn this silver Eagle rolling through the nightWho’s gonna fill their shoes?Who’s gonna stand that tall?Who’s gonna play the OpryAnd the Wabash cannonball?Who’s gonna give their heart and soulTo get to me and you?Lord, I wonder who’s gonna fill their shoesYes, I wonder who’s gonna fill their shoes