Ice Cream Truck Songs' Racist History Results In New Song From RZA

Wu-Tang Clan's RZA and Good Humor have partnered up to put a modern-day twist on the traditional ice cream truck jingle.

While most would be able to instantly recognize that a delicious frozen treat is near when they hear the familiar “Turkey in the Straw” ice cream truck song, many may be unaware that the jingle has a history rooted in racism.

On Thursday, RZA and Good Humor announced their partnership to put an end to the historically controversial tune that has become synonymous with the ice cream truck industry.

In a statement, RZA admitted that he was initially unaware of the song’s racist undertones but knew it was time for a change.

“I remember the days when I would hear that iconic ice-cream truck jingle outside, and I would drop what I was doing to chase it down for a treat. When I learned about that song’s problematic history this summer, I knew I had to get involved and do something about it,” RZA explained.

“I’m excited to share this new jingle with a new era of ice-cream truck fans and continue to spread that joy with Good Humor.”

A representative for Good Humor revealed that the collaboration with RZA was something they felt needed to happen, despite the company not owning ice cream trucks since 1976.

“...We wanted to be part of the solution and offer ice cream truck drivers a jingle that can bring joy to every community,” said Russel Lilly, the senior director of U.S. ice cream at Unilever. “So, to create a new jingle, we knew we had to team up with the mastermind behind some of the most memorable melodies of our time.”

Unlike RZA’s past musical releases that could be purchased, the new ice cream jingle is available for free on Good Humor’s website and through Nichols Electronics. The rapper and the dessert company are hoping ice cream truck operators will use the opportunity to replace the “Turkey in the Straw” song.