About the song
“In the vast world of country music, there are songs that transcend time, becoming anthems for a generation. **George Jones**’s ‘Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes’ is one of those songs. Released in 1985, the song is more than just a country song; it’s a poignant lament, a meditation on the inevitable change of times and the passing of legends.
**George Jones**, with his haunting vocals and heartfelt delivery, delivered a performance that still resonates today. The lyrics, written by Troy Seals and Max D. Barnes, ask a haunting question: who will fill the shoes of the giants who have gone before us? Jones sings about legendary country artists like Hank Williams, Merle Haggard, and Johnny Cash, who shaped the genre and left an indelible legacy.
The song is more than just a tribute to those who came before; it is also a warning about the decline of authenticity in country music. Jones laments the rise of pop-country stars who lack the depth and soul of their predecessors. He questions whether the new generation is capable of carrying the torch and maintaining the tradition.
‘Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes’ reached number three on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, cementing Jones’ status as one of the greatest country artists of all time. The song’s impact goes beyond its chart success; it has become a rallying cry for country music fans, a reminder of the importance of maintaining the genre’s legacy.
When we listen to ‘Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes’ today, we’re not just hearing a song; we’re experiencing a moment in country music history. Jones’ voice echoes across the decades, reminding us of the giants who came before us and challenging us to think about the future of country music.”
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
