About the song
## Red Foley’s “Chattanoogie Shoe Shine Boy”: A Timeless Ballad of Hope and Resilience
Red Foley, a legendary figure in country music, released “Chattanoogie Shoe Shine Boy” in 1944. This heartfelt ballad, with its simple yet evocative lyrics, has resonated with audiences for decades. The song tells the story of a young boy who, despite facing adversity, maintains his optimism and dreams of a brighter future.
At the heart of “Chattanoogie Shoe Shine Boy” is the theme of resilience. The young protagonist, working a humble job as a shoe shine boy, embodies the spirit of perseverance. His determination to overcome his circumstances is evident in the song’s lyrics: “Well, I’m just a little shoe shine boy, but I’ve got a dream, you see. To someday leave this city street, and live by the ocean’s sea.”
Foley’s warm and inviting vocals perfectly capture the emotional depth of the song. His delivery is both sincere and understated, allowing the lyrics to speak for themselves. The melody, with its gentle rhythm and catchy chorus, is instantly memorable and contributes to the song’s enduring appeal.
“Chattanoogie Shoe Shine Boy” also offers a glimpse into the social and economic conditions of the time. The song’s portrayal of a young boy struggling to make ends meet reflects the hardships faced by many during the Great Depression and World War II. However, the song’s optimistic tone provides a counterpoint to the prevailing sense of despair.
In addition to its thematic significance, “Chattanoogie Shoe Shine Boy” is notable for its musical arrangement. The simple instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitar and fiddle, creates a timeless and intimate atmosphere. The song’s arrangement is reminiscent of the early days of country music, when storytelling and emotional connection were paramount.
“Chattanoogie Shoe Shine Boy” remains a beloved classic, a testament to Red Foley’s enduring legacy. The song’s message of hope, resilience, and the power of dreams continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime country music fan or simply seeking a heartwarming and uplifting melody, this timeless ballad is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
Have you ever passed the corner of Forth and Grand?
Where a little ball o’ rhythm has a shoe-shine stand
People gather ’round and they clap their hands
He’s a great big bundle o’ joy
He pops the boogie woogie rag
The Chattanoogie shoe-shine boy
He charges you a nickel just to shine one shoe
He makes the oldest kind o’ leather look like new
You feel as though you wanna dance when he gets through
He’s a great big bundle o’ joy
He pops the boogie woogie rag
The Chattanoogie shoe-shine boy
It’s a wonder that the rag don’t tear
The way he makes it pop
You ought to see him fan the air
With his hoppity-hippity-hippity-hoppity-hoppity-hippity-hop
He opens up for business when the clock strikes nine
He likes to get up early when they’re feelin’ fine
Everybody gets a little rise ‘n shine
With the great big bundle o’ joy
He pops the boogie woogie rag
The Chattanoogie shoe-shine boy
It’s a wonder that the rag don’t tear
The way he makes it pop
Just listen to him fan the air
Here he goes!
He opens up for business when the clock strikes nine
He likes to get up early when they’re feelin’ fine
Everybody gets a little rise ‘n shine
With the great big bundle o’ joy
He pops the boogie woogie rag
The Chattanoogie shoe-shine boy
The Chattanoogie shoe-shine boy