Turkey in the Straw

“Turkey in the Straw” is a well-known American folk tune with roots that trace back to the early 19th century. Originally, it began as a rural folk song, and over time, it became a staple of old-time, bluegrass, and Appalachian music traditions. The melody has a lively and upbeat rhythm, making it a favorite at barn dances and square dances.

.

The tune’s earliest known versions were likely based on an old fiddle tune from the early 1800s, though its exact origin is somewhat murky. Some believe it evolved from an earlier song titled “Granny Will Your Dog Bite?,” a tune from the 19th century that shared a similar melody. Other sources trace the tune back to an earlier Irish or Scottish folk melody that found its way into American traditions through European settlers.

.

“Turkey in the Straw” became widely popular during the early 1800s and was first published in 1834 by P. T. Barnum’s American Museum as part of a musical show. Over the years, the tune gained further recognition, especially as it was adapted for use in minstrel shows in the mid-1800s, and later, it became associated with American country and bluegrass music in the early 20th century.

.

As with many folk tunes, “Turkey in the Straw” was passed down orally, and various regional and performer-specific versions emerged. The tune’s use of syncopated rhythms and 2/4 time signature made it perfect for both fiddle and banjo duets, and it became a staple for informal jam sessions and performances across the country.

.

In the 1930s and 1940s, “Turkey in the Straw” experienced a resurgence in popularity as bluegrass bands and old-time string bands began performing it at festivals and concerts. The tune has remained an enduring favorite in American roots music and continues to be a favorite in folk and bluegrass circles, beloved for its playful and infectious melody.

N/A

Verse 1: Oh, I had a little rooster, and he had a mighty crow, He would wake up all the chickens, and he’d shout out “Here I go!” Turkey in the straw, turkey in the straw, Roll ’em up and twist ’em up a high-old crow, And twist ’em up a little bit of turkey in the straw. Chorus: Turkey in the straw, turkey in the straw, Roll ’em up and twist ’em up a high-old crow, And twist ’em up a little bit of turkey in the straw. Verse 2: Well, the turkey’s in the barnyard, and the rooster’s on the hill, They’re a-dancing and a-singing with the fiddlers playing still. Turkey in the straw, turkey in the straw, Roll ’em up and twist ’em up a high-old crow, And twist ’em up a little bit of turkey in the straw.