Cluck Old Hen
"Cluck Old Hen" , also known by variants like "Cacklin' Hen", is a popular Appalachian fiddle and banjo tune in the mixolydian or dorian mode. It is played either as an instrumental or with lyrics, which vary from one version to another. One of the earliest reported transcriptions of the tune dates from 1886. The earliest recording is attributed to Fiddlin' [John Carson], in 1923.
Synopsis
The song describes the exploits of an "old hen" who performs various acts, such as laying ten eggs for railroad men. The song is made up of 'floating verses' with chorus of the song generally going:Score
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History
- in "Traditional Ballad Index of Folk Songs from the English-Speaking World", Folklore department, California [State University, Fresno]
- regarding lyrics and origins, from Mudcat Café
Recordings and transcriptions
- information and mp3 download from Project Gutenberg*.
Category:1927 singles
Category:American folk songs
Category:Songs with unknown songwriters