Introduction
Imagine yourself in a dimly lit, smoky honky-tonk on a Saturday night, the smell of whiskey lingering in the air as a familiar voice croons a bittersweet tune. That’s the essence that Set ‘Em Up Joe captures so well—a nostalgic, heartfelt tribute to the country music legends of the past. Inspired by his admiration for the classic sound of honky-tonk, Vern Gosdin, often referred to as “The Voice,” delivers a timeless ode to Ernest Tubb’s Walking the Floor Over You. Released in 1988, Set ‘Em Up Joe takes us back to country music’s roots while carving its place as a modern classic.
About The Composition
- Title: Set ‘Em Up Joe
- Composer: Vern Gosdin, Buddy Cannon, Hank Cochran, Dean Dillon
- Premiere Date: 1988
- Album: Chiseled in Stone
- Genre: Country, Honky-tonk
Background
Set ‘Em Up Joe was written as a tribute to Ernest Tubb, one of the pioneers of the honky-tonk sound. Released on the album Chiseled in Stone, the song quickly became a standout for its reverence to country’s golden age. Gosdin collaborated with country music stalwarts Buddy Cannon, Hank Cochran, and Dean Dillon to craft a piece that would not only honor Tubb but also celebrate the enduring legacy of honky-tonk music. From its release, Set ‘Em Up Joe resonated with listeners, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and cementing Gosdin’s position as one of the voices of authentic country music.
Musical Style
Set ‘Em Up Joe carries the hallmark sounds of classic honky-tonk: a steady rhythm, twangy guitars, and a voice that carries both grit and grace. The song features a smooth, melancholic melody that immediately evokes nostalgia. Its straightforward structure is key to its charm, giving it a timeless quality. With a subtle but memorable hook, Gosdin’s rich vocals bring out the yearning and warmth that characterize honky-tonk music, while the guitar riff pays homage to Tubb’s style. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the lyrics and Gosdin’s voice to shine, making it an emotional experience for the listener.
Lyrics
The lyrics of Set ‘Em Up Joe tell the story of a man who, night after night, plays the same Ernest Tubb tune on the jukebox. It’s both a celebration and a lament, reflecting on the joy and sorrow woven into country music. Lines like, “They oughta put an Ernest Tubb record on / and set ’em up, Joe, and play ‘Walking the Floor’ all night long,” pay tribute to the genre’s icons and its storytelling roots. Through this tribute, the song connects past and present, allowing the listener to feel the weight of tradition alongside the simplicity of the moment.
Performance History
Since its release, Set ‘Em Up Joe has been a beloved staple in the world of country music. Gosdin’s original version remains a fan favorite, celebrated for its authenticity and emotional depth. Notable performances by Gosdin himself have cemented this song as a tribute to honky-tonk’s heyday, while various country artists have covered it, each bringing their own reverence to the tune. Set ‘Em Up Joe has consistently reminded audiences of Ernest Tubb’s influence, acting as a link between generations of country fans.
Cultural Impact
Set ‘Em Up Joe not only honored the legacy of Ernest Tubb but also sparked a resurgence in honky-tonk appreciation in the late 1980s. The song’s success highlighted the deep-seated respect that country fans held for their musical heritage. Beyond radio play, Set ‘Em Up Joe has become a cultural symbol of country music’s roots, finding its way into honky-tonk playlists and dive bars across America. The song has appeared in various country music compilations and playlists, bringing its timeless charm to new listeners.
Legacy
The legacy of Set ‘Em Up Joe lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia for country music’s past while still feeling fresh and relatable. It has served as a reminder of the impact that Ernest Tubb and his contemporaries had on the genre. Gosdin’s tribute song has become a part of that legacy, embodying the same timeless qualities he set out to honor. Decades after its release, Set ‘Em Up Joe remains a go-to song for those seeking the soulful simplicity and raw emotion of honky-tonk music.
Conclusion
Listening to Set ‘Em Up Joe feels like taking a journey back in time to when country music was unfiltered, heartfelt, and deeply personal. For anyone looking to experience the essence of honky-tonk, Set ‘Em Up Joe is a must-listen. Check out Vern Gosdin’s recording, or catch a live cover at your local bar—it’s the kind of song that feels just as powerful in a crowded room as it does on a quiet night at home. So grab a drink, put on this classic tune, and let Gosdin’s voice transport you to the heart of country music
Video
Lyrics
They got a vintage Victrola 1951
Full of my favorite records that I grew up on
They got ole Hank and Lefty and there’s B24
Set ’em up Joe and play? Walking The Floor?
Set ’em up Joe and play? Walking The Floor?
I’m gonna spend the night like every night before
Playin E.T. and I’ll play him some more
I’ve gotta have a shot of them old troubadours
Set ’em up Joe and play? Walking The Floor?
Set ’em up Joe and play? Walking The Floor?
All my neon neighbors they like what I play
‘Cause they’ve heard it every night since you’ve walked away
Every day they replace old B24
‘Cause every night I run a needle through? Walking The Floor?
Every night I run a needle through? Walking The Floor?
I’m gonna spend the night like every night before
Playin E.T. and I’ll play him some more
I’ve gotta have a shot of them old troubadours
Set ’em up Joe and play? Walking The Floor?
Set ’em up Joe and play? Walking The Floor?
I said “Set ’em up Joe and play? Walking The Floor'”
Set ’em up Joe and play? Walking The Floor’