Ice Cream Truck Song Turkey In The Straw Lyrics
Ice cream trucks are a staple of summer. When you hear the familiar tune of "Turkey in the Straw," you know that delicious treats are on their way. But have you ever wondered about the lyrics to this classic ice cream truck song? Let's take a closer look.
The Origin of "Turkey in the Straw"
The melody of "Turkey in the Straw" can be traced back to the early 19th century. It was originally a tune played on the fiddle and was known as "Old Zip Coon." The song was popular in minstrel shows and was eventually adapted into a children's song.
The Lyrics to "Turkey in the Straw"
The lyrics to "Turkey in the Straw" are often changed or improvised by ice cream truck drivers. However, the original lyrics are as follows:
As I was a-goin' on down the road,
With a tired team and a heavy load,
I cracked my whip and the leader sprung,
I says day-day to the wagon tongue.
Turkey in the straw, turkey in the hay,
Roll 'em up and twist 'em up a high tuckahaw
And twist 'em up a tune called Turkey in the Straw.
The second verse goes:
Went out to milk, and I didn't know how,
I milked the goat instead of the cow.
A monkey sittin' on a pile of straw,
A-winkin' his eyes at his mother-in-law.
Turkey in the straw, turkey in the hay,
Roll 'em up and twist 'em up a high tuckahaw
And twist 'em up a tune called Turkey in the Straw.
As you can see, the lyrics are nonsensical and were likely added to the song for comedic effect.
The Controversy Surrounding "Turkey in the Straw"
In recent years, "Turkey in the Straw" has come under fire for its association with minstrel shows and racist caricatures. Some have called for the song to be retired from ice cream truck rotations.
While the origins of the song are undoubtedly problematic, it has evolved into a beloved part of American culture. Many people have fond memories of chasing after ice cream trucks and hearing the familiar strains of "Turkey in the Straw" in the summertime.
Conclusion
Love it or hate it, "Turkey in the Straw" is a classic ice cream truck song that has stood the test of time. Whether you're singing along to the original lyrics or an improvised version, it's hard to resist the call of the ice cream truck on a hot summer day.