Introduction:
Released in 1985, Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes became a signature song for the legendary country singer George Jones. It marked a turning point in Jones’ career, revitalizing his popularity after a period of personal struggles. The song was the title track for his 45th studio album, also released in 1985 on the Epic Records label.
Written by Troy Seals and Max D. Barnes, Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes is a poignant reflection on the loss of country music greats and the irreplaceable mark they leave on the genre. The lyrics pay homage to iconic figures like Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, and Lefty Frizzell, asking the haunting question: who will carry on their legacy?
Produced by Billy Sherrill, a renowned country music producer who had collaborated with Jones on numerous hits throughout the 1970s, Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes became a success on the charts. It peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1985, showcasing Jones’ powerful vocals and signature melancholic style. The song also went on to win the Country Music Association (CMA) Award for Video of the Year in 1986.
The accompanying music video for Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes further solidified the song’s impact. Directed by David Kershenbaum, the video features Jones singing in various locations significant to country music history, including the Grand Ole Opry stage. Interspersed throughout are footage clips of the country music legends referenced in the song, creating a powerful tribute to their legacies.
Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes became not only a hit song but also an important theme in Jones’ later career. He frequently performed the song live and it was included on several of his greatest hits compilations. The song endures as a testament to the enduring influence of country music’s founding artists and the ongoing search for new voices to carry the torch.
Video:
Lyrics:
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