What is yodeling, anyway? Some consider it singing, some say it’s an ululation, and still others consider it merely a means to herd animals. Whatever yodeling is, one thing’s clear: Yodeling has been around for thousands of years and shows no signs of disappearing.

This hour, we speak with a musicologist, a DJ, and a professional singer about this age-old vocal practice. We trace yodeling’s history from its humble, utilitarian roots to its place in modern day pop music and beyond.

GUESTS:

• Bart Plantenga: The author of several books including Yodel in Hi-Fi: From Kitsch Folk to Contemporary Electronica
• Roger Tincknell: A cowboy yodeler, musician, and traveling performer
• Timothy Wise: Author of Yodeling and Meaning in American Music
• Chion Wolf: Host of Audacious on Connecticut Public

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Colin McEnroe and Jonathan McNicol contributed to this show, which originally aired October 10, 2017.

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