About the song
Jim Croce, a folk singer-songwriter known for his soulful voice and introspective lyrics, penned “One Less Set of Footsteps” as a poignant tribute to a friend who had passed away. This heartfelt ballad, released in 1973, became a popular addition to Croce’s live performances and a beloved song among his dedicated fanbase.
With his distinctive raspy voice and emotive delivery, Croce paints a vivid picture of grief and loss. The song explores themes of mortality, friendship, and the enduring power of memory. Through introspective lyrics and Croce’s heartfelt vocals, listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences of loss and the importance of cherishing loved ones.
The opening lines, “There’s one less set of footsteps, one less chair to fill,” immediately establish the song’s somber theme. Croce reflects on the absence of his friend and the profound impact their loss has had on his life. The song’s refrain, “There’s one less set of footsteps, one less heart to thrill,” conveys a sense of emptiness and longing.
Throughout the song, Croce uses vivid imagery and relatable anecdotes to illustrate the enduring power of memory. He references the “old familiar places” where he and his friend shared memories, and he contemplates the fleeting nature of time. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the past, while also expressing a hope for a reunion in the afterlife.
“One Less Set of Footsteps” is more than just a sad song; it is a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the importance of cherishing loved ones. Croce’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful performance resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the fragility of life and the importance of making the most of our time together. This timeless classic continues to touch the hearts of audiences worldwide, serving as a reminder that the loss of a loved one is a universal experience.
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Lyrics
We’ve been running away from
Something we both know
We’ve long run out of things to say
And I think I better go
So don’t be gettin’ excited
Oh, when you hear that slammin’ door
‘Cause there’ll be one less set of footsteps
On your floor in the morning
And we’ve been hidin’ from something
That should have never gone this far
But after all, it’s what we’ve done
That makes us what we are
And you’ve been talking in silence
Well, if it’s silence you adore
Oh, there’ll be one less set of footsteps
On your floor in the morning
Well, there’ll be one less set of footsteps on your floor
One less man to walk in
One less pair of jeans upon your door
One less voice a-talking
But tomorrow’s a dream away
And today has turned to dust
Your silver tongue has turned to clay
And your golden rule to rust
If that’s the way that you want it
Well, that’s the way I want it more
‘Cause there’ll be one less set of footsteps
On your floor in the morning
Well, there’ll be one less set of footsteps on your floor
One less man to walk in
One less pair of jeans upon your door
One less voice a-talking
But tomorrow’s a dream away
When today has turned to dust
Your silver tongue has turned to clay
And your golden rule to rust
If that’s the way that you want it
Oh, that’s the way I want it more
‘Cause there’ll be one less set of footsteps
On your floor in the morning
Oh, there’ll be one less set of footsteps
On your floor in the morning