Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "WLS Barn Dance 42-08-22 (0) First Song - Roll out the Barrell"

Release Date: April 19, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Title: WLS Barn Dance 42-08-22 (0) First Song - Roll out the Barrel

Introduction

In this lively episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio with a vibrant rendition of the WLS Barn Dance broadcasted from the Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in Milwaukee. The host, Joe, sets the stage by welcoming listeners and establishing the festive atmosphere of the fair.

[00:38] Joe: "Hello, hello, hello, everybody everywhere. How's Mother and Dad and the whole family? Well, say, just listen to that music. The stirring notes of On Wisconsin welcome us tonight as the Alka Seltzer National Barn Dance comes to you direct from the Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in good old Milwaukee on the shores of Lake Michigan."

Musical Performance by Billy Murray

The evening kicks off with a performance by Billy Murray, a celebrated pioneer of American popular music. Murray entertains the audience with a patriotic medley featuring classics like "Yankee Doodle Dandy" and "You're a Grand Old Flag."

[03:24] Billy Murray: "I'm the kid that's all the candy I'm a Yankee Doodle Dandy... You're a grand old flag. You're a high flying flag."

The performance is seamlessly interspersed with commentary from Kenny and Pat, who add humor and context to Murray's nostalgic tunes.

Hoosier Hot Dog McBurn Performs "Meet Me Tonight in the Cowshed"

Following Murray's spirited performance, the spotlight shifts to Kenny, Frank, and Gaby from the Hoosier Hot Dog McBurn, who deliver a quaint and catchy number titled "Meet Me Tonight in the Cowshed." Their harmonious vocals and playful lyrics capture the rustic charm of barn dance traditions.

[06:13] Kenny: "Meet me tonight in the cowshed after the cows come home."

[07:23] Kenny: "Meet me tonight in the cowshed after the cows come home. You know, Betsy reminds me of you, Gabe."

The trio's performance is both endearing and entertaining, showcasing their tight-knit chemistry and musical prowess.

Conversation about the Wisconsin State Fair

Intertwined with the musical interludes are engaging dialogues between Joe and Frank. They discuss their experiences at the Wisconsin State Fair, sharing anecdotes and humorous exchanges about local attractions.

[08:13] Joe: "Yes, sir. Well, if today Hoosier hot jobs, we'll all be seeing you down by the cowshed."

[09:03] Frank: "Yeah, he couldn't find his mama. And he was crying. And I give him some candy... He said, sonny, I know where your mama is. He said, so do I, and shut up."

The conversation takes a light-hearted turn as they recount tales of horse races and local festivities, providing listeners with a glimpse into the community spirit of the fair.

Barn Dance with Lulibel and Scotty

The episode features a delightful barn dance performance by Lulibel and Scotty. Their duet infuses the show with lively yodeling and toe-tapping rhythms, celebrating rural life and love.

[11:46] Kenny: "I met her on a mountain trail beside the Lonesome Pine and she yodeled to the silvery moon above."

[12:08] Gaby: "And you'll never make your yodel lady blue."

Their harmonious interplay and spirited vocals resonate with the timeless appeal of barn dance music, enhancing the nostalgic ambiance of the show.

Eddie Peabody’s Banjo Performance

Adding to the evening's musical repertoire is Eddie Peabody, the Barn Dance ambassador from Banjo Land. His skilled banjo strumming and captivating performance of "Lo Lolita" bring a touch of bluegrass flair to the broadcast.

[13:43] Frank: "He's right here, ready and rare, Joe."

[14:17] Eddie Peabody: "The sailors greet her with that old navy yell. For she is the darling of the battle fleet..."

Peabody’s energetic rendition of "Lo Lolita" infuses the show with lively melodies and rhythmic complexity, showcasing his mastery of the banjo.

Humorous Anecdotes and Light-Hearted Banter

Throughout the episode, Joe engages in humorous exchanges with his co-hosts, Pat, Frank, and Kenny, adding levity and charm to the broadcast. From playful teasing about wireless headlines to amusing stories about lost children at the fair, the camaraderie among the hosts creates an inviting and warm atmosphere for listeners.

[10:46] Joe: "Well, that wasn't bad. Luke deserves a lot of credit to come from last and cross the finish line. Fourth?"

[11:09] Frank: "Yeah."

Their witty banter and relatable stories enhance the listener's connection to the show's community-focused theme.

Conclusion

Wrapping up a vibrant evening of music, stories, and laughter, Harold's Old Time Radio's episode of the WLS Barn Dance offers a rich tapestry of the Golden Age of Radio. From Billy Murray's patriotic tunes to the Hoosier Hot Dog McBurn's charming performances and Eddie Peabody's expert banjo playing, the episode encapsulates the essence of traditional radio entertainment. The engaging dialogues and heartfelt performances ensure that both longtime fans and new listeners alike are thoroughly entertained.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• [00:38] Joe: "Roll out that barrel of fun, boys and girls. But remember to make it a Milwaukee barrel."

• [05:14] Billy Murray: "You're a Yankee Doodle do or die. A real live nephew of my Uncle Sam born on the 4th of July."

• [09:03] Frank: "He said, sonny, I know where your mama is. He said, so do I, and shut up."

• [12:12] Gaby: "And you'll never make your yodel lady blue."

• [13:43] Frank: "He's right here, ready and rare, Joe."

This episode is a nostalgic journey through classic radio entertainment, perfect for listeners seeking the warmth and simplicity of bygone radio broadcasts.