One of country music’s most iconic moments came when 81-year-old legend Eddy Arnold joined 13-year-old LeAnn Rimes for a breathtaking rendition of Cattle Call. Featured on Rimes’ 1996 debut album Blue, the duet showcased a stunning blend of generations—Arnold’s timeless mastery and Rimes’ already powerhouse vocals—creating a performance that still resonates with country fans today.
Eddy Arnold and LeAnn Rimes’ Iconic Yodeling Showdown in “Cattle Call”
One of the most unforgettable moments in country music came when Eddy Arnold and a young LeAnn Rimes joined forces for a stunning duet of “Cattle Call.” The collaboration, featured on Rimes’ 1996 debut album Blue, showcased an extraordinary blend of voices from two generations—Arnold, a country music legend at 81 years old, and Rimes, just 13 at the time, already demonstrating the powerful voice that would define her career.
Rolling Stone points out that although “Cattle Call” wasn’t released as an official single, it still climbed to No. 18 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, proving just how captivating the duet was. The performance became a fan favorite, mainly due to the flawless yodeling from both artists—a technique not often heard in modern country music. Arnold’s smooth, steady yodel complemented Rimes’ fresh, youthful tone, creating a timeless sound that bridged the gap between classic and contemporary country.
What made the duet so special was how Rimes held her own alongside Arnold, whose career had already spanned six decades. Her ability to match Arnold’s masterful yodeling was remarkable, particularly for someone so young. The song’s unique style, which could have seemed outdated in the 90s, felt revitalized through their skillful execution and mutual respect for the music’s heritage.
