Song of the Day, February 7: In These Shoes? by Kirsty MacColl

Today’s song is In These Shoes? by Kirsty MacColl. After label difficulties and a painful divorce, MacColl vowed not to return to the studio until she could make a record she enjoyed. She was true to her word, and the resulting disc — Tropical Brainstorm — is fun from start to finish, one of her finest efforts. This song is a standout, showing off her wit and talent for storytelling.

Told in three parts, the narrator describes her interactions with three different men who offer her varying assignations. Although tempted, she refuses to sacrifice her footwear for pleasure, demanding that they fit their desires into her prefered framework. It’s a lovely song of lust, spirit, independence and fun.

I once met a man with a sense of adventure
He was dressed to thrill wherever he went
He said “Let’s make love on a mountain top
Under the stars on a big hard rock”
I said “In these shoes?
I don’t think so”
I said “Honey, let’s do it here.”

The track was used brilliantly in the movie Kinky Boots as well, one of the highlights of the film. Enjoy this delightful song today.