“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Eddy Arnold, often referred to as “The Tennessee Plowboy,” carved a significant niche in the world of country music with his warm voice and heartfelt performances. One of his most iconic songs, “Cattle Call,” is a testament to his deep connection with the rural roots of America. Arnold’s rendition of “Cattle Call” became a timeless classic, showcasing his smooth baritone voice and bringing the lonesome call of the cowboy to a broader audience. His ability to blend traditional country sounds with a pop sensibility helped him reach a wide range of listeners, securing his place in the annals of country music history.
Arnold’s impact on the genre was profound, as he shifted country music towards a more polished and commercially viable sound. His work not only embraced the traditional themes of rural life and cowboy culture but also introduced elements that appealed to urban audiences. “Cattle Call” remains one of his most celebrated pieces, demonstrating his unique talent for storytelling through song.
About The Composition
- Title: Eddy Arnold
- Composer: Tex Owens
- Premiere Date: 1945
- Album/Opus/Collection: “Cattle Call and Other Cowboy Songs”
- Genre: Country
Background
Eddy Arnold was born on May 15, 1918, in Henderson, Tennessee. He grew up on a farm, which greatly influenced his music and the themes he explored throughout his career. Arnold began his musical journey in the 1940s and rose to fame with his smooth voice and unique blend of country and pop music. He became one of the most successful country artists of his time, with numerous hits that topped the charts. His career spanned several decades, and he was known for his charismatic performances and ability to connect with audiences.
Arnold was a trailblazer in the country music scene, and his work paved the way for future generations of artists. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1966, a testament to his enduring influence and contributions to the genre. Arnold’s music often reflected his humble beginnings and resonated with listeners who shared similar experiences of rural life and its challenges.
Musical Style
Eddy Arnold’s musical style was characterized by his rich, smooth baritone voice and his ability to convey emotion through song. He expertly combined traditional country elements with a more polished, mainstream appeal. His arrangements often featured lush string sections and gentle rhythms, which helped make his music accessible to a broader audience. This style was a precursor to what would later be known as the Nashville Sound.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical themes of “Cattle Call” revolve around the solitary life of a cowboy and the vast, open landscapes they inhabit. The song captures the essence of the cowboy lifestyle, with its sense of freedom and connection to nature. Arnold’s rendition brings these themes to life with his emotive delivery and vivid imagery.
Performance History
Eddy Arnold’s “Cattle Call” has been performed numerous times throughout his career and remains one of his signature songs. Notable performances include his appearances on the Grand Ole Opry and various television shows. The song’s popularity has led to its inclusion in many of Arnold’s live performances, solidifying its status as a staple of his repertoire.
Cultural Impact
“Cattle Call” has had a significant cultural impact, influencing countless artists and appearing in various media. Its portrayal of cowboy life and the American West resonates with audiences, evoking a sense of nostalgia and romanticism. The song has been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its place in American musical culture.
Legacy
Eddy Arnold’s legacy lives on today, as his music continues to inspire new generations of country musicians. His contributions to the genre have helped shape the sound of modern country music, and his influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary artists. Arnold’s ability to transcend traditional country boundaries and appeal to a wider audience has ensured his enduring importance in the music industry.
Conclusion
Eddy Arnold’s “Cattle Call” is more than just a song; it’s a piece of Americana that captures the spirit of the cowboy and the vastness of the American landscape. I encourage you to explore more of Arnold’s work to fully appreciate his artistry and the impact he has had on country music. His music offers a glimpse into a bygone era and continues to resonate with listeners today.
Video
Lyrics
Whoo-ooh-ooh-doo-di-di
Whoo-ooh-ooh-oop-doo-doo
Whoo-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Yod-el-od-el-lo-ti-de
The cattle are prowlin’, the coyotes are howlin’
Way out where the dogies bawl
Where spurs are a-jinglin’, a cowboy is singin’
This lonesome cattle call
Whoo-ooh-ooh-doo-di-di
Whoo-ooh-ooh-oop-doo-doo
Whoo-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Yod-el-od-el-lo-ti-de
He rides in the sun ’til his days work is done
And he rounds up the cattle each fall
Ooh-ooh-ooh-doo-di-di
Singin’ his cattle call
For hours, he would ride on the range far and wide
When the night winds blow up a squall
His heart is a feather in all kinds of weather
He sings his cattle call
Whoo-ooh-ooh-doo-di-di
Whoo-ooh-ooh-oop-doo-doo
Whoo-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Yod-el-od-el-lo-ti-de
He’s brown as a berry from ridin’ the prairie
And he sings with an ol’ western drawl
Ooh-ooh-ooh-doo-di-di
Singing his cattle call
Ooh-ooh-ooh-doo-di-di
Whoo-ooh-ooh-oop-doo-doo
Whoo-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Yod-el-od-el-lo-ti-de