More "Shoes"

The song I’m reviewing in today’s posting is pretty special: "My Father's Shoes" by Cliff Eberhardt.

I became acquainted with this folk artist’s work the same way as I have for a number of others, i.e., through folk compilation CDs I have purchased over the years. I have seen Cliff several times at the Swannanoa Gathering where he has been an regular instructor; I’ve yet to take one of his classes, but I plan to one day!

This particular song, I think, is just about the finest folk-pop genre piece I have ever heard: that’s not an exaggeration. And I’m not alone in this opinion, I would guess. None other than the legendary Richie Havens himself covered this song! 

This song has it all. And you can tell without even taking it apart to analyze it because the first time you hear it - and every time again after that - “My Father’s Shoes” delivers a gut-punch of emotion. Wow, Cliff.

The lyrics describe the resentments of a young man seemingly constrained by his family’s (especially his father’s) expectations. And yet, there are signs that he gets why; the lyrics reveal his insights in an effective way, even as he vows to not repeat the mistakes of the past.

I love the harnessed power of the simple refrain (which contains the song title). Each syllable in “I will not walk in my father’s shoes” lands squarely on a melody note: it’s the sonic equivalent of ALL-CAPS font.

The melody has simple but nice movement, with rising tension through the verses, and then it soars in the bridge with its emphatic declarations of independence.

The arrangement of the song should not be overlooked. - I think it is a big part of the effectiveness of the piece. Against the backdrop of acoustic guitar strums, there are tribal-like drum beats at the turns of the verse lines. Some well-placed electric guitar riffs add to the edginess of the song without interfering with its essential folk vibe.

And finally, Cliff Eberhardt’s performance (the original recording is provided with the link above) is masterful. His voice is mature enough to carry the seriousness of the very relatable lyrics.We clearly hear the emotions of a young man struggling to deal with his personal and family histories and his dreams of moving beyond them. Talk about vulnerabilities in the creative process - all right there, fellow songwriters!

Thank you, Cliff, for this epic song!