I’m a fan of the Wu-Tang Clan. Founder, RZA, is a musical genius. I’m also a fan of ice cream. It’s totally better than cake on birthdays. Ice cream company GOOD HUMOR approached RZA about creating a new ice cream truck jingle to replace the current popular version played in trucks everywhere.
“Turkey in the Straw” is one of the most iconic ice cream truck jingles today. However, many people don’t realize that this familiar tune has racist roots.
Turkey in the Straw’s melody originated from British and Irish folk songs, which had no racial connotations. But the song itself was first performed (and gained popularity) in American minstrel shows in the 1800s. Some songs using its same melody contained highly offensive, racist lyrics.
Throughout the 19th century, minstrel songs like Turkey in the Straw were commonly played in ice cream parlors, and later, adapted as ice cream truck jingles.
While these associations of “Turkey in the Straw” are not the only part of its legacy, it is undeniable that this melody conjures memories of its racist iterations.
Listen:
I’m hoping to hear this in our neighborhoods soon.
