The Everly Brothers – Put My Little Shoes Away

About the song

“Put My Little Shoes Away” by The Everly Brothers is a somber and heartfelt ballad that delves into themes of loss, grief, and innocence. Originally a 19th-century folk song, this traditional tune was covered by The Everly Brothers as part of their 1958 album Songs Our Daddy Taught Us. This album features a collection of traditional and country songs that Don and Phil Everly grew up with, and “Put My Little Shoes Away” is one of the more emotionally powerful tracks on the record.

The song tells the sorrowful story of a child who, on their deathbed, asks their parents to “put their little shoes away.” The child’s plea is simple and heartbreaking, as they are aware of their impending death and ask for their belongings to be set aside, knowing they will no longer need them. The innocence of the child, paired with the stark reality of their situation, creates an emotional tension that permeates the entire song.

The lyrics convey the child’s request in lines such as “Don’t forget to put my shoes away, so they’ll be there for me another day.” The simplicity of the request, juxtaposed with the tragedy of the situation, underscores the emotional weight of the song. It’s a poignant reflection on death from the perspective of a child, highlighting the universal themes of loss and the sadness that accompanies it.

The Everly Brothers’ harmonies are particularly striking in this track, bringing a tender and sorrowful tone to the song. Their voices blend seamlessly, adding emotional depth to the already heart-wrenching lyrics. The simple acoustic guitar accompaniment creates a quiet, reflective atmosphere, allowing the focus to remain on the story being told. The stripped-down arrangement emphasizes the raw emotion of the song, making the listener feel the weight of the child’s plea.

Throughout “Put My Little Shoes Away,” there is a sense of inevitability and resignation. The child’s calm acceptance of their fate is perhaps the most heart-wrenching aspect of the song, and The Everly Brothers’ gentle performance amplifies this feeling. The delicate balance of sadness and innocence is what makes this song so powerful, as it touches on the universal experience of loss while maintaining the purity of a child’s perspective.

The song’s inclusion on Songs Our Daddy Taught Us speaks to its deep roots in American folk music, and its timeless message resonates with listeners of all ages. While it is a song about death, it is also about the love and care that remains even after someone is gone. The child’s request to have their shoes put away is a metaphor for the way loved ones continue to care for us, even in death, preserving our memory and cherishing the moments we shared.

“Put My Little Shoes Away” is a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of loss, especially when it comes to children. The Everly Brothers’ version of the song is tender and respectful, paying homage to its traditional roots while adding their own emotional depth through their signature harmonies and simple instrumentation. Their ability to evoke deep emotions through their music is what makes this song a standout on the album, as it continues to resonate with audiences today.

“Put My Little Shoes Away” is a touching and sorrowful exploration of grief, loss, and innocence. Through its poignant lyrics and the Everly Brothers’ heartfelt performance, the song serves as a reminder of the love and care that endure, even in the face of death. It’s a testament to the power of music to convey complex emotions and universal experiences, ensuring that this traditional folk song remains timeless.

Video

Lyrics

“Put My Little Shoes Away”