On a recent episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, viewers were treated to a hilarious and unique performance by cowboy poets Waddie Mitchell and Baxter Black. The talk show host introduced the duo as representatives of the annual gathering of cowboy poets in Elko, Nevada, a tradition that not many people may be aware of.
As Mitchell and Black took the stage, the audience’s applause filled the room, setting the tone for what was sure to be an entertaining segment. Carson asked the cowboys about the event and its growth over the years, to which they responded that the gathering has indeed been gaining popularity, thanks in part to positive press coverage.
Carson, intrigued by their profession, asked Mitchell and Black how they felt about Hollywood’s portrayal of cowboys in movies. Mitchell then shared a touching poem written by Gail Gardner that shed light on the subject. The poem told the story of a cowboy who fell from grace after being influenced by a woman from Chicago, eventually becoming a “dude wrangler” in the city. It was a humorous and poignant take on the clash between traditional cowboy values and the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.
Carson then turned his attention to Baxter Black, who started his career as a veterinarian and eventually found himself performing cowboy poetry. Black, known for his unique and often humorous style, decided to share a poem that had the audience in stitches. Titled “The Vegetarian’s Nightmare,” the poem explored the idea that plants feel pain, leading to a humorous and absurd commentary on the plight of vegetables in a meat-centric world.
Both Mitchell and Black showcased their talents to the delight of the audience. Mitchell’s recitation of Gardner’s poem was filled with emotion and depth, while Black’s performance of his own piece demonstrated his knack for combining comedy with thought-provoking ideas. The audience’s laughter and applause throughout the segment were a testament to the entertainment value of their performances.
The episode, which aired on August 1, 1987, stands as a reminder of the diverse and captivating guests that The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson brought to its viewers. The inclusion of cowboy poets like Waddie Mitchell and Baxter Black showcased the show’s dedication to showcasing unique forms of entertainment and ensuring that viewers were consistently engaged and entertained.
As the chat show host bid farewell to his guests, it was clear that their appearances on the show would leave a lasting impression. The combination of heartfelt poetry, witty humor, and undeniable talent made for a memorable segment that highlighted the rich cultural traditions and captivating performances found in the world of cowboy poetry.
Whether it was the crowd-pleasing recitation of traditional cowboy poetry by Waddie Mitchell or Baxter Black‘s amusing take on the vegetarian’s dilemma, this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson left its audience both entertained and intrigued by the world of cowboy poetry.
Originally aired on January 8, 1987
