Ralph Riggs and Betty Garde were well-known for their performances in early American radio and stage shows.
Though they were more famous as actors, they also performed music for radio dramas and variety programs.
Their music career was not as decorated with awards as their acting work, but they brought joy to many listeners during the golden age of radio. They were part of an era when live music and storytelling converged, shaping the world of entertainment.
About the Song
This song is fun and full of energy. It tells a story about farmers and cowmen trying to get along. Ralph Riggs and Betty Garde sing with joy, and it feels like a lively moment from a show.
The tune makes you want to tap your feet and enjoy the friendly back-and-forth in the words. It’s a cheerful song that brings smiles and feels like old-time music everyone can enjoy together.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | 1990 |
| Album | Oklahoma! (Original Cast) |
| Writers | Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II & Rodgers & Hammerstein |
| Producers | Original Broadway Production |
Farmer and The Cowman Lyrics
[ANDREW]
Oh, the farmer and the cowman should be friends
Oh, the farmer and the cowman should be friends
One man likes to push a plough
The other likes to chase a cow
But that’s no reason why they cain’t be friends
Territory folks should stick together
Territory folks should all be pals
Cowmans dance with farmer’s daughters
Farmers dance with the ranchers’ gals
[ALL]
Territory folks should stick together
Territory folks should all be pals
Cowboys dance with farmer’s daughters
Farmers dance with thе ranchers’ gals
[FARMER]
I’d like to say a word for the farmеr
[AUNT ELLER]
Well, say it
[FARMER]
He come out west and made a lot of changes
[MAN]
That’s right
[WILL]
He come out west and built a lot of fences
[CURLY]
And built ’em right across our cattle ranges
[COWBOY]
Why don’t you dirt scratchers go back to Missouri where you belong?
[WILL]
We got just as much right here as you have
[MAN]
Shut up
[FARMER]
The farmer is a good and thrifty citizen
[WILL]
He’s thrifty all right
[FARMER]
No matter what the cowman says or thinks
You seldom see him drinkin’ in a bar room
[CURLY]
Unless somebody else’s buyin’ drinks
[ANDREW]
Oh, the farmer and the cowman should be friends
Oh, the farmer and the cowman should be friends
The cowman ropes a cow with ease
The farmer steals her butter and cheese
That’s no reason why they cain’t be friends
[ALL]
Territory folks should stick together
Territory folks should all be pals
Cowboys dance with farmer’s daughters
Farmers dance with the ranchers’ gals
[AUNT ELLER]
I’d to say a word for the cowboy
[FARMER]
Oh, you would, huh?
[AUNT ELLER]
The road he treads is difficult and stoney
He rides fer days on end
With just a pony fer a friend
[ANNIE]
I sure feelin’ sorry fer the pony
[AUNT ELLER]
The farmer should be sociable with the cowboy
If he rides by an’ ask for food an’ water
Don’t treat him like a louse
Make him welcome in your house
[IKE]
But be sure that you locked up your wife an’ daughters
Oh, the farmer and the cowman should be friends
Oh, the farmer and the cowman should be friends
One man likes to push a plough
The other likes to chase a cow
But that’s no reason why they cain’t be friends
[ALL]
Territory folks should stick together
Territory folks should all be pals
Cowboys dance with farmer’s daughters
Farmers dance with the ranchers’ gals
Oh, the farmer and the cowman should be friends
One man likes to push a plough
The other likes to chase a cow
But that’s no reason why they cain’t be friends
[CURLY]
And when this territory is a state
An’ joins the union jus’ like all the others
The farmer, and cowman and the merchant
Mus’ all behave theirselves and act like brothers
[AUNT ELLER]
I’d like to teach ya all a little sayin’
And learn the words by heart the way you should
I don’t say I’m no better than anybody else
But I’ll be damned if I ain’t just as good
[ALL]
I don’t say I’m no better than anybody else
But I’ll be damned if I ain’t just as good
Territory folks should stick together
Territory folks should all be pals
Cowboys dance with farmer’s daughters
Farmers dance with the ranchers’ gals
*Instrumental*
[ALL]
Territory folks should stick together
Territory folks should all be pals
Cowboys dance with farmer’s daughters
Farmers dance with the ranchers’ gals
Similar Songs Like Farmer and The Cowman
If you enjoyed the playful charm of Farmer and The Cowman, here are more lively songs from Oklahoma! Performed by Ralph Riggs, Betty Garde, and the original cast, you’ll love.
- Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’: An uplifting tune from Oklahoma! Celebrating the beauty of nature and the promise of a new day, filled with optimism and charm.
- People Will Say We’re In Love: This is a romantic duet from Oklahoma! Captures the delicate tension between love and societal expectations through heartfelt lyrics.
- Kansas City: It’s a lively number showcasing the excitement of urban life and progress, blending humor with catchy melodies.
- The Surrey With The Fringe On Top: A whimsical song about dreams and courtship, filled with playful imagery and warm harmonies.
- Out of My Dreams: A dreamy ballad reflecting hope and longing, bringing a touch of introspection to Oklahoma!’s vibrant score.
Similar Artists Like Ralph Riggs & Betty Garde
These artists from the same era might bring you happiness, too:
- Mary Martin
Genres: Musical Theatre, Vocal
Top Albums: South Pacific (1949), Peter Pan (1954), Annie Get Your Gun (1957) - Ezio Pinza
Genres: Opera, Musical Theatre
Top Albums: South Pacific (1949), Favorite Operatic Arias (1950) - Gordon MacRae
Genres: Classic Pop, Musical Theatre
Top Albums: Carousel (1956), Oklahoma! (1955), The Desert Song (1959) - Nelson Eddy
Genres: Classical, Operetta
Top Albums: Naughty Marietta (1935), Rose-Marie (1936) - Jeanette MacDonald
Genres: Operetta, Musical Theatre
Top Albums: Naughty Marietta (1935), Sweethearts (1938)
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does The Song Appear in Oklahoma!?
It happens during a big scene at a social gathering. The song brings energy and humor to the middle of the musical.
Who Originally Performed the Song?
Ralph Riggs and Betty Garde performed it in the original Broadway production, making it a highlight of the show.
Can the Song Be Performed Outside the Musical?
Yes, it’s popular at community shows and theater events, as it’s lively and fun to perform with a group.
