About the song
“Set ‘Em Up Joe” is a timeless country classic by Vern Gosdin, a singer whose deep, resonant voice earned him the nickname “The Voice.” Released in 1988, the song is part of Gosdin’s critically acclaimed album *Chiseled in Stone*. Written by Vern Gosdin along with Dean Dillon, Buddy Cannon, and Hank Cochran, “Set ‘Em Up Joe” stands out as a tribute to the legendary country singer Ernest Tubb.
This song is a nostalgic homage to the honky-tonk tradition, with its lyrics reminiscing about the golden days of country music. It tells the story of a man who finds solace in a bar, playing Tubb’s classic records on the jukebox and reflecting on the enduring impact of his music. The chorus, “Set ’em up, Joe, and play ‘Walking the Floor,'” directly references Tubb’s iconic song “Walking the Floor Over You,” highlighting the influence of past country legends on contemporary artists like Gosdin.
Upon its release, “Set ‘Em Up Joe” quickly became a hit, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This achievement marked another milestone in Vern Gosdin’s illustrious career, reinforcing his status as a significant figure in the country music landscape of the late 1980s. The song’s success was not just a testament to its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics but also to Gosdin’s ability to connect deeply with his audience.
The album *Chiseled in Stone* itself was highly praised, with several tracks, including “Set ‘Em Up Joe,” receiving considerable airplay and acclaim. The album is often cited as one of Gosdin’s finest works, showcasing his exceptional storytelling ability and his deep, emotive voice.
For many country music fans, “Set ‘Em Up Joe” remains a beloved classic that captures the spirit of the honky-tonk era and the timeless appeal of country music’s rich history. It is a song that continues to resonate with listeners, offering a nostalgic look back at the roots of the genre while celebrating the legacy of one of its greatest voices, Vern Gosdin.
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’