The takes the 3 minute and 14 second radio edit and pushes it further, emphasizing the track's unique "Euro-country" blend:
It might seem strange that a group of Swedish techno producers—, Örjan Öberg , and Pat Reiniz —were the ones to revive a pre-Civil War American folk song. The inspiration allegedly came after Reiniz heard a 1992 recording of the song by the Irish group The Chieftains and American country singer Ricky Skaggs .
: Real banjos and fiddles are layered over aggressive, thumping techno beats to create a "raw, energetic, simple, party" vibe. Who Was Cotton Eye Joe? Rednex - Cotton Eye Joe (Extended Original Version)
But the is where the magic truly happens, stretching out the manic energy for those who just can't get enough of the barn-burning rhythm. The Swedish Surprise
Where Did It Come From? The Wild Story of Rednex's "Cotton Eye Joe" The takes the 3 minute and 14 second
While the Rednex version focuses on the fun, the original folk lyrics are much older and shrouded in mystery. Dating back to the early 1800s, "Cotton Eye Joe" was a staple among enslaved African Americans in the South.
The meaning of "Cotton Eye" is still debated today, with theories ranging from: : A reference to being drunk on illicit spirits. Medical Conditions : Blindness caused by disease or injury. Who Was Cotton Eye Joe
: Written in A major at a blistering 132 BPM , the song never lets up.