This good-time list is not just for barnyard animals–it’s a party of the feathered world, told in song.
From funky–and feathered—songs for the mother-clucking queen herself to heart-rending ballads about an undersized bird that’s tied up, this collection runs the gamut in type and timeframe, from mellow country gems to fun children’s songs.
Whether you’re looking for a great toe-tapping singalong or an interesting look at how chickens fit into our lives and diets, this list has got something to hit just the right note for everyone. So crank up your musical taste buds, put your feet up, and let yourself be entertained with this special playlist.
Who knows? You may find your new favorite song now all thanks to that amazing, clucking old bird: the chicken!
1. “The Song Of The One-Legged Chicken” by Tom T Hall
“The Song Of The One-Legged Chicken” is a quaint, storytelling song by Tom T. Hall that captures the hearts of listeners with its sincerity and simplicity.
Based on a true story, which is a characteristic element of Hall’s songwriting, the song is a piece from his beloved 1974 album “Songs of Fox Hollow.”
Through his soothing vocals, Hall narrates the life of a resilient one-legged chicken that resides in his barn.
The song is designed to appeal to both children and adults as it conveys themes of survival and acceptance.
Its narrative style is engaging, inviting audiences into the rustic setting of Hall’s farm life, and resonates with the pure, true-to-life ethos of folk and country music.
2. “Chicken Walk” by Hasil Adkins
“Chicken Walk” by Hasil Adkins is an audacious and dynamite offering from a rockabilly legend with an electrifying personality.
Adkins, a self-taught one-man band from West Virginia, channels his larger-than-life persona and deep love for chicken into this music piece that stirs up the raw, uncut spirit of American rock-n-roll.
Infamous for his raucous performance style, blending guitar riffs with foot-stomping rhythms, Adkins’ “Chicken Walk” is part of an album that radiates with weirdness, hilarity, and sheer awesomeness.
The opening track, “She Said,” is particularly contagious, with its howling chorus and relatable storytelling.
The album rolls out a series of riotous, danceable tracks such as “Shake That Thing” and pays an unironic tribute to ‘big fat mamas,’ alongside a notably macabre yet captivating tune “No More Hot Dogs.”
This cult classic record encapsulates Adkins as an underappreciated genius whose influence reached well into the ’80s as he inspired a new generation of followers with his uniquely wild musical inflections.
3. “Chicken” by The Cramps
“Chicken” by The Cramps is a distinct track representing the band’s unique approach to music creation.
As part of the album “A Date with Elvis,” this song exemplifies the group’s fondness for pushing boundaries in the music scene.
With a length of just 1 minute and 39 seconds, “Chicken” is a delightfully speedy injection of rockabilly and psychobilly, two genres that The Cramps have been frequently associated with.
Although brief, the tune manages to provide listeners with a quick taste of eccentricity that is so emblematic of the band’s style.
Its punk energy is inescapable, even in its brevity.
Ultimately, it is a must-listen for fans of ’80s music and those who appreciate an unconventional twist to the standard rock tune!
4. “Know Your Chicken” by Chibo Mato
“Know Your Chicken” by Cibo Matto is an avant-garde blend of alternative sounds that bridges the gap between pop and experimental music.
Cibo Matto, with its New York City origins, infuses this catchy track with their signature quirky style, showcasing an eclectic use of various instruments and mismatched rhythms.
The song itself narrates the bizarre tale of two chickens, one purchased from a store, and the other a personal pet, which weaves a sort of culinary mystery throughout the melody.
Its whimsical lyrics and fun, upbeat tempo make for an offbeat listening experience that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
This track stands as a testament to the duo’s talent for creating unique soundscapes that can be both playful and musically complex.
5. “Ain’t Nobody Here But Us Chickens” by Louis Jordan & His Tympany Five
“Ain’t Nobody Here But Us Chickens” is a swinging piece by Louis Jordan & His Tympany Five that captures the essence of jump blues charisma.
Recorded on June 26, 1946, and released the same year by Decca Records, the song was a massive hit, retaining the number one spot on Billboard’s R&B chart for an impressive 17 weeks.
With its catchy phrase “Nobody here but us chickens,” originally a humorous take on a chicken thief’s excuse, the song became a permanent part of pop culture.
It’s characterized by its lively tempo, Jordan’s charismatic vocal delivery, and a rhythm that gets feet tapping.
The track’s amusing lyrical story and musical vitality merited its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2013, confirming its status as a timeless classic.
6. “Magic Chicken!” by The Aquabats
“Magic Chicken!” by The Aquabats! is a delightful blend of punk rock playfulness and brass-infused melodies, characteristic of the band’s eccentric and engaging style.
This song showcases The Aquabats!’s affinity for infusing their music with a sense of humor and fun, as they tell the story of a chicken who’s not only skillful at pecking corn but also possesses some inexplicable magical qualities.
With its high-energy ska-punk beats and catchy chorus, “Magic Chicken!” is a fan favorite that exemplifies the band’s theatrical approach to music.
It’s a piece that invites listeners to let loose and not take things too seriously.
Perfect for audiences of all ages, this track represents the lighter, whimsical side of The Aquabats!, a band that doesn’t shy away from playful storytelling and vibrant performances.
7. “The Chicken In Black” by Johnny Cash
“The Chicken in Black” is a distinctive and humorous single by Johnny Cash, released in 1984 through Columbia Records.
Written by Gary Gentry, this track stands out in Cash’s discography for its comical narrative and unique storyline.
The song delves into an absurd tale where Johnny Cash, plagued by persistent headaches, undergoes a brain transplant that replaces his with that of a deceased bank robber.
This leads to a series of comical events including inadvertent bank and Grand Ole Opry robberies, culminating in the discovery that Cash’s original brain has been transplanted into a chicken.
Despite reaching #45 on the US Billboard’s country chart, Cash himself later criticized the song, labeling it as “intentionally atrocious” and its production as a low point in his career during the 1980s.
The song’s playful departure from Cash’s usual thematic content highlights his versatility as an artist willing to explore and experiment musically.
8. Dixie Chicken – song and lyrics by Little
“Dixie Chicken” by Little Feat is a classic blend of Southern rock, blues, and funk, encapsulating a narrative rich in Southern imagery and romance.
Released in 1973, this song is celebrated for its storytelling, musical composition, and heartfelt lyrics penned by Lowell George and Martin Kibbee.
The narrative follows the protagonist’s whimsical and somewhat melancholic recollection of a romance in Memphis, vividly painting scenes of lively nights, love, and eventual departure.
The catchy chorus, “If you’ll be my Dixie chicken, I’ll be your Tennessee lamb / And we can walk together down in Dixieland,” has become emblematic of the band’s ability to fuse humor, warmth, and a deep appreciation for Southern culture into their music.
The instrumental prowess of Little Feat shines throughout the track, delivering a sound that’s both intricately layered and effortlessly smooth.
For listeners, “Dixie Chicken” offers a nostalgic journey through vibrant Southern landscapes, underpinned by masterful musicianship and timeless storytelling.
9. “The Funky Chicken” by Rufus Thomas
“The Funky Chicken” by Rufus Thomas is a vibrant, groove-filled track that invites you to hit the dance floor with its infectious rhythm and blues vibe.
Released in 1970 under the Stax label, this song became one of Thomas’s signature hits, further cementing his reputation as the “world’s oldest teenager” due to his energetic and playful performances.
The song features funky guitar riffs, a driving bassline, and Thomas’s charismatic vocalizations, which include squawks and clucks that mimic the movements of the song’s titular dance.
It’s a party anthem that combines humor with a danceable beat, and it showcases Thomas’s talent for crafting tunes that are as fun to listen to as they are to dance to.
With “The Funky Chicken,” Rufus Thomas delivered a timeless classic that remains a staple in the realm of soul and funk music.
10. “Chicken Squawk” by MDC
“Chicken Squawk” by MDC is a hardcore punk song with a raw, aggressive edge that is emblematic of the band’s sound and political message.
MDC, which stands for Millions of Dead Cops, Music in Defiance of Compliance, or other variations depending on the context of their songs, are known for their radical and uncompromising lyrics.
This particular track features the classic fast-paced, high-energy tempo of punk, accompanied by gritty and shouted vocals.
It’s a protest, in a sense, utilizing the metaphor of a chicken squawk to perhaps mock or call out the inane prattling of society or the status quo.
Listeners are, thus, not just entertained but also provoked to think, as “Chicken Squawk” packs a punch both musically and intellectually.
It’s another bold statement from the band that became prominent for their outspokenness during the punk scene’s heyday.
11. Super Chicken Theme Song
The “Super Chicken” theme song is a fun, catchy tune from the classic animated television show, “Super Chicken”, that aired in the late 1960s as part of “George of the Jungle” show.
The tune is jam-packed with whimsy and playful humor, matching the show’s comedic vibe.
The song begins with a memorable trumpet fanfare that leads into the catchy chorus, setting the tone for Super Chicken’s zany adventures.
The lyrics humorously introduce the listeners to the brave and somewhat ridiculous Super Chicken who would risk life and limb, but not his Super Sauce.
The melody sticks in the mind and becomes an identifying marker for the TV show.
The “Super Chicken” theme song has a decidedly 1960s flair that is nostalgic and attractive, making it a perfect introduction to the comedic and adventurous world of “Super Chicken.”
12. “Chicken Fat” by Robert Preston
“Chicken Fat” by Robert Preston, also known as the “Youth Fitness Song”, is a lively and energetic tune particularly known for its role in the school physical fitness program in the US during the 1960s.
President Kennedy’s administration wanted to boost the physical health of the nation and embraced this song as part of their campaign.
The song, performed by actor Robert Preston, features a fast-paced melody that matches the rigorous workout it typically accompanies in gym classes.
It was designed to be a musical call to action, featuring straightforward lyrics that call on the listener to move, jump, and run to the beat.
The song’s dynamic tempo and catchy, chanting-style lyrics make it a fascinating piece of musical history, all while promoting physical activity and health.
13. “Teenage Mutant Kung Fu Chickens” by Ray Stevens
“Teenage Mutant Kung Fu Chickens” by Ray Stevens is a song filled with humor and whimsy.
Stevens, known for his comedic and novelty songs, offers an amusing take on the popular “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” with his unique song.
The lyrics discuss the titular chickens’ kung fu skills and adventures in a light-hearted, whimsical manner that is sure to make listeners chuckle.
The energetic tune, characteristic of Stevens’ work, enhances the playful nature of the song.
As with other Ray Stevens songs, “Teenage Mutant Kung Fu Chickens” also features excellent instrumental arrangements, catchy melodies, and clever wordplay.
For listeners, this song offers not only an amusing narrative but also an enjoyable musical experience, reflecting Stevens’ signature humor and creative talents.
14. “Chicken Strut” by The Meters
“Chicken Strut” by The Meters is an instrumental track that typifies the band’s unique blend of funk, soul, and rhythm and blues.
Released in 1970 as part of their “Struttin'” album, the song is distinctive for its percussive, syncopated rhythms, tight arrangement, and groovy bass line that effortlessly mimics the strutting movement of a chicken.
The band also exhibits its impressive musicianship in the breaks and bridges, where each instrument gets a moment to shine.
The absence of vocals shifts the focus onto the interplay among the instruments, showcasing the band’s skill in crafting catchy, rhythmic tunes.
Whether an ardent fan of funk or a casual listener, one can appreciate the toe-tapping, dance-inducing quality of “Chicken Strut”, a testament to The Meters’ innovative style and legacy in the genre.
15. “Run Chicken Run” by Link Wray
“Run Chicken Run” by Link Wray is a testament to Wray’s innovative guitar techniques that have influenced generations of rock musicians. This instrumental track, released in 1963, exemplifies his signature raw and gritty guitar sound.
The song title suggests a frantic rush, aptly captured in the urgency of the music.
Wray cleverly uses his guitar to imitate the sounds and emotions associated with a chicken on the run, creating a track that is both visually and audibly compelling.
The energetic tempo and rhythmic repetitions contribute to this portrayal, making the track incredibly engaging for the listener.
While it may lack lyrics, “Run Chicken Run” more than makes up for it with its unique sounds and compelling narrative, leaving a lasting impression and showcasing Link Wray’s unparalleled musical talents.
Conclusion
Let’s sum up this serendipitous odyssey into the chicken-themed musical world.
Not only do these songs have humorous lyrics and mirthful harmonies; but they also carry feelings countless stories and memories that unexpectedly strike deep chords.
As we’ve mysteriously detoured off the polemic path to contemplate this peculiar genre, we find that songs about chickens are not just new forms of vitality. They are rather treasures that make you smile, think, and above all, enjoy.
So, let’s keep alive that spirit of imagination and fun in music–for after all it’s precisely from the unexpected places in life that one comes across something truly exceptional.