Released in 1985 as the title track for Jones’ 45th studio album, it became a landmark moment in his career, not only for its poignant lyrics but also for its innovative music video.
Background
Jones, by this point, was already a legend. Nicknamed “The Possum” for his distinctive, almost pleading tenor, he’d built a reputation for raw emotion and a sound steeped in the traditions of honky-tonk. “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” marked a turning point, however. Here, Jones wasn’t singing about heartbreak or the woes of the working man, though those themes were never far from his repertoire. Instead, he was lamenting the loss of country music giants.
The song opens with a contemplative mood, the steel guitar weeping softly as Jones ponders a world “full of singers.” But then comes the gut punch: “But just a few were chosen to tear your heart out when they say goodbye.” This line, delivered with Jones’ signature ache, sets the stage for a heartfelt tribute to the country music icons who had passed on.
The lyrics become a roll call of fallen heroes: Johnny Cash, the “outlaw that walks through Jesse’s dream” (a reference to Cash’s cover of Marty Robbins’ “El Paso”); Willie Nelson, the “redheaded stranger”; Cash again, with the iconic “Man in Black”; and even Hank Williams, the “Okie from Muskogee.” Each name carries weight, a reminder of the immense talent that had shaped the genre.
But “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” isn’t just about loss. It’s also a question, a plea to the heavens. The repeated refrain, “Who’s gonna fill their shoes?” hangs heavy in the air. Jones isn’t just mourning the past; he’s worried about the future. Can country music produce new artists with the same heart, the same grit, the same ability to connect with audiences on a visceral level?
The song’s impact transcended the music itself. The accompanying video, directed by David Hogan, was a groundbreaking achievement. Interwoven with shots of Jones singing are black-and-white clips of the very artists he’s eulogizing. It was a powerful visual testament to their legacy and a challenge to the next generation of country stars.
“Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” remains a poignant and thought-provoking song. It’s a reminder of the giants whose shoulders today’s country musicians stand on, and a question that continues to resonate. It’s a song that deserves a place in any serious discussion of country music history, and a testament to the enduring power of George Jones’ voice.
Harley