We hear a strange type of singing called "cowboy throat signing." This is in addition to the yodeling.
You'll know what I mean by "strange" when you hear it in the song. How did Arthur Miles learn throat-singing? Ancient cultures had this technique, and it is known in parts of the world, but how did someone in Texas know to do it in 1929?
Tuvan throat singing, known as khoomei, is one particular variant of overtone singing practiced by people in Tuva, Mongolia, and Siberia.
Arthur Miles performs "Lonely Cowboy" (Parts 1 & 2) on Victor V-40156, recorded in Dallas, Texas, on August 8, 1929.
A group of jolly cowboys on the Franklin ranch one night,
their heads up on a saddle and a campfires burning bright.
Some were telling stories and some were singing song,
and some were smoking cigarettes while the others rolled along.
At once they began to talking of distant friends so dear,.
A boy raised his head from his saddle and brushed away a tear...
This boy was tall and handsome, and his face showed a life of good cheer.
His eyes were all but heavenly blue and he had light wavy hair.
We asked him why he left his home, it being so dear to him.
He raised his head from his saddle--with tears his eyes grew dim.
As he raised his head from the saddle and he gazed a rough cried oar,
said "boys, Ill tell you the reason why I stay at home no more."
I fell in love with the neighbor's girl
Her cheeks was very white
Another fellow loved this girl
And it ended in a fight
This fellow's name was Tommy Smith
And we had been great chums
We shared each others troubles
We shared each other's bond
It almost makes me shudder
To think of that sad night
When Tom and I was quarrelling
I stabbed him with my knife
I fell on my knees beside him
And tried to stop the blood
That flowed down so gently
It was like crimson flood
I can almost hear Tommy's voice
As the boys all gathered around
Saying "Bob ol' boy you'll remember when I am under the ground"
Now boys you know the reason why
That I am compelled to roam
And why I am so far away from dear old home sweet home
Sound file was done by Frank Dalton.
Arthur Miles "Lonely Cowboy" Parts 1 & 2 (Dallas, Texas, 1929) cowboy throat signing = Tuvan khoomei
