In the rich tapestry of Western cowboy lore, a lesser-known fact emerges - one in four cowboys were Black, a truth sometimes overlooked. It was in 1942 when Abbott and Costello filmed a remarkable saloon scene for their movie "Ride 'Em Cowboy," showcasing black cowboys and cowgirls. Unfortunately, this scene was excluded from the final cut, but it found new life as a "soundie," a precursor to modern music videos. Enter "Cow Cow Boogie," a lively jazz-infused cowboy song featuring the vocal talents of Dorothy Dandridge as a singing cowgirl.
"Cow Cow Boogie (Cuma-Ti-Yi-Yi-Ay)" is a captivating country-boogie-style blues song with lyrics penned by Benny Carter and Gene De Paul, and music composed by Don Raye. Originally written for the aforementioned Abbott & Costello film, the song became a cultural gem. Its lyrics pay homage to the singing cowboy tradition prevalent in the American West, as the urban cowboy instructs his "dogies" (motherless calves) to "get hip."
The first recorded rendition of "Cow Cow Boogie" was by Freddie Slack & his Orchestra, featuring the remarkable Ella Mae Morse as the vocalist. Released in 1942, it quickly became Capitol Records' second release and their first million-seller, reaching the top of the charts. Morse, having heard Ella Fitzgerald's performance on a soundtrack, learned the song and recorded it in a single take, believing it to be just a rehearsal.
In subsequent years, "Cow Cow Boogie" enjoyed several notable covers. A collaboration between The Ink Spots and Ella Fitzgerald in 1943 resulted in a number-one hit on the Harlem Hit Parade and reached number 10 on the pop chart. Frankie Laine, The Mills Brothers, Ray Stevens, Mel Torme, and even the acclaimed mother-daughter duo The Judds, have all contributed their unique renditions of this timeless song.
Beyond its musical legacy, "Cow Cow Boogie" holds cultural significance. Ella Mae Morse's version, originally recorded in 1942, was reimagined as a "soundie" - a precursor to the music video format we know today.
As we uncover the hidden history of Black cowboys in Western culture, "Cow Cow Boogie" shines a light on their contributions through infectious rhythms and soulful performances. This classic vintage gem reminds us of many of the greatstories that form the fabric of American music and heritage.
The American Beat endorses "Cow Cow Boogie," a musical time capsule capturing the essence of a bygone era. Let this spirited tune transport you to a world where jazz, Western heritage, and the talent of incredible artists like Dorothy Dandridge and Ella Mae Morse intertwine to create an unforgettable piece of American history.
