Song of the One Legged Chicken
Tom T. Hall · Country Songs for Children [Mercury] [1995]
Do you like true stories I do
That's why I'm singing this song
A song about one legged chicken
Who lives in the straw on the floor in my barn.
I remember the day she was hatched out
The vet came to see her and said
She has only one leg she'll never grow up
He said that chick would be better off dead.
I said no let's just let her keep growing
We'll just wait and see how she gets
Before very long she was hopping and pecking
And chasing the bugs with the rest.
And now she is a beautiful chicken
Though she has only one leg
When I go to see her each morning
She hops from the nest and she leaves me an egg
And she cackles.
Do you like true stories I do
That's why I've sung you this song
The song about the one legged chicken
Who lives on the floor in my barn...
Song of the One Legged Chicken
Tom T. Hall was a master of narrative songwriting, often crafting stories that resonated with listeners through simple, relatable imagery. This track appears on his 1995 children's album, Country Songs for Children, where he applied his signature storytelling style to a younger audience. Hall's work frequently explored everyday characters and situations, transforming the mundane into memorable musical moments. By focusing on a one-legged chicken, he created a whimsical yet poignant character study typical of his approach to children's music. The recording showcases his ability to engage young listeners while maintaining the lyrical depth found throughout his extensive discography. This song stands as a testament to his versatility, proving that his craft extended well beyond traditional country themes into the realm of playful, educational entertainment.