The Meaning Behind The Song: These Boots Are Made For Walkin (Original Version) by Jessica Simpson
One of the most classic songs in the history of rock and roll is “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” by Nancy Sinatra. This song is a timeless anthem that speaks to all women who are looking for strength and independence in their lives. But in the year 2005, singer Jessica Simpson decided to put her own twist on this classic hit. While the music video of Simpson version was heavily criticized at the time for being too sexual, the song itself was a hit, peaking at number 14 on the billboard hot 100 charts.
Just like the original version, the Jessica Simpson rendition of “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” is a song of female empowerment. It’s all about a woman who has been wronged by her man and is ready to walk away from the toxic relationship. The lyrics address the man who has used her, pretending to love her, and now she is placing the responsibility for the collapse of their relationship squarely on his shoulders by pointing a finger at him, saying “These boots are made for walking, and that’s just what they’ll do, one of these days these boots are gonna walk all over you.” She’s saying that she’s ready to make a clean break and start over, knowing that she’s strong enough to do it all by herself and that she doesn’t need anyone to hold her up.
Frequently Asked Questions Related To The Song
1. What inspired Nancy Sinatra to write “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'”?
Nancy Sinatra didn’t actually write the song, it was written by Lee Hazlewood. In fact, he had originally intended the lyrics to be spoken by a cowboy, but later decided it would be better performed as a song. The story goes that Hazlewood was writing the song when he accidentally stepped on a tack and recoiled in pain. He exclaimed, “These boots are made for walkin’, not for standin’!” and thus was inspired to turn that phrase into the famous song lyrics.
2. What was the significance of the boots in the music video for Jessica Simpson’s version of the song?
The music video for Jessica Simpson’s version of “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” was deemed controversial for its overtly sexual imagery. It showed Simpson wearing provocative clothing and writhing around suggestively. The boots themselves were a key symbol, representing female empowerment and liberation. While the original version of the song had Nancy Sinatra wearing a modest dress with go-go boots, Simpson’s video incorporated thigh-high boots and skimpy outfits to draw attention to the message that women should be free to express their sexuality.
3. Were there any other famous artists who covered this song?
Yes, many artists have released their own versions of “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” over the years. Some of the most notable include Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, and Billy Ray Cyrus.
4. What genre of music is “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'”?
The song is classified as a pop song with some rock influences.
5. Is there any significance to the song’s bassline?
Yes, the distinctive bassline in “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” has become one of the most recognizable in music history. It was actually played on a contrabass flute, and its simplicity and catchiness are largely credited with helping to make the song such a hit.
6. How did the song perform on the charts?
Both the Nancy Sinatra original and the Jessica Simpson cover of “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
7. What was the reception like for Jessica Simpson’s version of the song?
The song received mixed reviews, with many criticizing the highly sexualized music video as over the top and unnecessary. However, the song itself was popular and helped to establish Simpson as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
8. What other songs did Lee Hazlewood write?
Lee Hazlewood wrote many other songs throughout his career, including “Houston” (performed by Dean Martin), “Summer Wine” (performed by Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood), and “Some Velvet Morning” (performed by Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood).
9. Was there any backlash to the lyrics of “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” when it was first released?
There wasn’t any major backlash to the song, although some conservative groups did express concern about the lyrics being too suggestive. However, the song’s catchy hook and empowering message ultimately won over audiences, making it a classic hit.
10. Did Nancy Sinatra write any other famous songs?
Nancy Sinatra is best known for “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’,” but she also had several other popular songs throughout her career, including “Sugar Town” and “You Only Live Twice.”
11. Did Jessica Simpson face any consequences for the provocative nature of the music video?
While the video did stir up controversy at the time, Simpson did not face any major consequences for it. She continued to be a popular artist in the years that followed and has since moved on to other endeavors.
12. What was the inspiration for the lyrics of “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'”?
The lyrics are all about a woman who is fed up with a man who has treated her poorly, and is ready to walk away from the relationship. The song is a declaration of independence, with the woman making it clear that she doesn’t need anyone to hold her up and that she is strong enough to make it on her own.
