About The Song
Background
“Cattle Call” is a country song written by Hugo Winter and Tex Ritter. It was first recorded by Ritter in 1936 and became one of his signature songs. However, it was Eddy Arnold’s 1949 version that became the definitive recording and a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song’s success helped to launch Arnold’s career as one of the most popular country music singers of the era.
Musical Style
“Cattle Call” is a fast-paced, upbeat song with a driving rhythm and a catchy melody. Arnold’s smooth, baritone vocals are perfectly suited to the song’s energetic mood. The song’s instrumentation features a prominent fiddle and steel guitar, which give it a distinctly country sound.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Cattle Call” are a vivid description of the life of a cowboy. The song paints a picture of the long hours, hard work, and isolation of life on the range. However, it also captures the sense of freedom and adventure that comes with being a cowboy.
The song’s chorus is a memorable call and response, with Arnold singing “Oh, the cattle are prowlin’ and the coyotes are howlin'” and the chorus echoing “We’re off for the dogies ball.” This call and response structure gives the song a sense of excitement and camaraderie.
Cultural Impact
“Cattle Call” became an instant classic upon its release in 1949. The song’s popularity extended beyond the country music genre, crossing over to the pop charts and gaining widespread appeal. Arnold’s version of the song has been covered by numerous artists, including Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, and Willie Nelson. It has also been featured in many films and television shows, including The Lone Ranger (1950-1959) and Bonanza (1959-1973).
The song’s enduring popularity is due in part to its iconic status as a representation of the American West. The lyrics and imagery of “Cattle Call” evoke the romance and nostalgia of the cowboy era, making it a beloved song for generations.
Conclusion
“Cattle Call” is a timeless classic that has captured the imagination of listeners for over 70 years. Its catchy melody, evocative lyrics, and energetic performance have made it a staple of country music and a beloved song for fans of all genres. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its power to transport listeners to a time and place of adventure, freedom, and the American spirit.
Additional Interesting Facts:
- The song was originally written for the 1936 film The Lone Ranger.
- Arnold’s version of the song was used as the theme song for the radio show The Eddy Arnold Show (1949-1956).
- “Cattle Call” has been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grammy Hall of Fame.