Wu-Tang Clan founder RZA puts the ‘good’ in Good Humor, and works with the candy manufacturer to create a new ice cream truck jingle as a free alternative to the famous and problematic tune ‘Turkey in the straw. ‘
The rapper-producer unveiled Thursday night the catchy new song in a video acknowledging the racist history of ‘Turkey in the Strait’, which has long been associated with minstrel shows and racist imagery.
“Do you remember that ice cream?” RZA says in a promo video that introduces its tone. ‘Of course – we all know that. However, I will not play it now because we find out it has racist roots.
‘But check this out – Good humor, they called me out and they were like,’ We need to do something about this, Riz. We can change the dynamics. We can create a new ice angel for a new era. ‘”
Clear the cheerful, ethereal melody and distinct rhythm of the new track
‘Melody’ Turkey in the Straw ‘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 with the same melody contained very offensive, racist lyrics, ”explains Good Humor on its website.
‘In the 19th century, minstrel songs such as’ Turkey in the Straw’ were often played on ice rinks, and later, adapted as ice truck jingles. Although these associations of ‘Turkey in the Strait’ are not the only part of their legacy, there is no doubt that this melody evokes memories of its racist iterations. ‘
Also scattered throughout the announcement video are title cards “calling on ALL drivers to immediately play ‘Turkey in the Strait’,” ‘in favor of RZA’s jingle, which’s Good Humor released for free and’ added ‘to’ the industry standard refrigerator music boxes ”begin this month.
“We wanted to create a melody that encompasses all communities – that’s good for every driver, every child,” RZA continues. “And I’m proud to say, for the first time in a long time, a new ice truck jingle will be made available for trucks all over the country forever. That means forever, do you know what I mean? Like Wu-Tang is forever. And I will assure you that this one was made with love. ”
