Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'

Subject: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: Little Hawk
Date: 29 Jul 00 - 10:28 AM

Hi people. Remember the great movie "In The Heat Of The Night", with Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger? There was a brief scene in a sleazy little diner where someone was talking to the guy who worked behind the counter (he was the guy who turned out to be the murderer, by the way...). There was a radio going in the diner, and it was playing a hilariously redneck song called "Bow Wow On The Prowl", a thinly disguised metaphor for young men who wander around at night looking for action. This song was a classic, but I have never heard it again anywhere nor found it on any recording. Does anyone know where I can find it? It might be on the soundtrack album of the movie, but I haven't been able to locate that album. I gotta find this song. The chorus is indelibly printed in my mind. It's very funny. Please help me out on this one.

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: catspaw49
Date: 29 Jul 00 - 12:07 PM

Yeah, I remember it well, and that's one of my favorite movies. The song had that same sound of one that was popular around that time, "Little Red Riding Hood" which I think was by Sam the Sham and the Pharoaohs maybe?

I think the easiest thing to do would be to rent the movie and transcribe it.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: Sorcha
Date: 29 Jul 00 - 12:11 PM

I don't know if it would be on here or not, but CD soundtrack for sale here . No luck on the lyrics yet.

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: Sorcha
Date: 29 Jul 00 - 12:33 PM

OK, try again-- here?

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: Little Hawk
Date: 30 Jul 00 - 12:15 AM

Ah, thanks, folks...here I am back here on Saturday night...or is it Sunday morning? I could rent the movie...only trouble is I don't think the whole song is there, just a piece of it. I will check out that CD soundtrack and see what the story is on that. Thanks again. I have got to get some sleep now, so good night.

Little Hawk (George Coventry)

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: Clifton53
Date: 30 Jul 00 - 12:54 AM

Maybe I'm wrong but I think the song is actually titled " Foul Owl on the Prowl". It's been years since I've seen the flick but I can recall what an odd lyric it was.

Clifton

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: catspaw49
Date: 30 Jul 00 - 01:42 AM

You're right Clifton!!!

Spaw

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: Joe Offer
Date: 30 Jul 00 - 01:58 AM

Hmmm. Could it be Glen Campbell singing "Bowlegged Polly"? You'll find a sample of the song here (click).

Well, a bowlegged Polly and a knock-kneed Paul
Well, a bowlegged Polly and a knock-kneed Paul
Well, a bowlegged Polly and a knock-kneed Paul
They can't get together at all.
Just like the worm in the corn field said to his brother
"Yeah, go in one ear and out the other."

Ba-ba Ba-pa-bah (singing like Roger Miller)

...

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: catspaw49
Date: 30 Jul 00 - 02:05 AM

No Joe.....Different song. That one is playing while Sam Wood the deputy (Warren Oates) drives through town at night on his small transistor radio hanging from the mirror of his Plymouth Police Cruiser. He switches off the radio as he approaches the Purdy house where he switches off the lights and coasts up in front so he can check out Delores Purdy nekkid!

Spaw......cantsleepandisboredstiff

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: Clifton53
Date: 30 Jul 00 - 04:27 PM

This song is playing in a diner scene when I think Sidney Poitier enters and the counterman is leary of serving a black man.

One line I can recall is, talking about the owl on the prowl, "If you hear him hoot, scoot".

Clifton

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: Little Hawk
Date: 30 Jul 00 - 09:37 PM

No Kidding! Foul Owl on the Prowl? Wall, shucks, don't that jest beat awll! Now Ah'm gone hafta see thet there movie agin...gawrsh all hemlock...thanks, Clifton.

George (Little Hawk)

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: Mrrzy
Date: 31 Jul 00 - 10:00 AM

I always heard it as Foul Owl, too, but was perfectly willing to believe I was the one who'd heard it wrong! What a great film!

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: GUEST,ideal2k
Date: 08 Dec 04 - 05:53 PM

I've been looking for this song for years, and just from google found this thread.
Yes, it does read "foul owl on the prowl", but I can't figure out who sings it or even if it has ever been released on CD.

Does anyone know? Please e-mail me at [e-mail]

4-year-old thread, oh my God :) please reply anyway!

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: GUEST,ideal2k
Date: 08 Dec 04 - 05:58 PM

Looks like I'm about to answer my own question:
Quincy Jones (vocal Boomer & Travis) - Foul Owl (ST In The Heat Of The Night)

Subject: RE: Looking for 'Bow Wow On The Prowl'
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 04 - 08:49 PM

According to allmusic.com, FOUL OWL was written by Alan Bergman, Marilyn Bergman, and Quincy Jones. It is included on a double soundtrack album that covers both "In the Heat of the Night" and "They Call Me Mr. Tibbs," Beyond CD #578255, 2002; also Rykodisc CD #10712, 1998.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From: GUEST,bigbob
Date: 29 Jan 05 - 06:25 PM

to me it sounds like Buck Owens singing

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 30 Jan 05 - 11:16 AM

And the lyrics?

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From: GUEST,Wow
Date: 15 Feb 05 - 12:22 PM

I can't believe this thread is still going on. I just saw the movie this weekend on TV1 and my wife and I have been talking about this song since Saturday. It's now Tuesday. Thank you all so much for the information.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From: katlaughing
Date: 21 Feb 05 - 03:04 AM

refresh

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From: GUEST,The Big Bopper
Date: 01 Mar 05 - 01:27 AM

Just saw "In the heat of the night" for the umpteenth time and now
I know where that song came from. It was really nice to hear Ray
sing the theme song. I also miss him and Rod Steiger, who with Sidney
Poitier made this a true American folk classic. Maybe this thread will
be around into the next millennium. We'll be all dead but "Foul Owl" will still be around. Maybe it'll make a comeback then with Anthony James (the counter man) dancing around for the MTV video. He will of course be computer generated. Hang in there thread, only 95 more years to keep this 'thing' alive and well!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From: GUEST,Scott
Date: 13 Mar 05 - 07:50 PM

The song was done by a duo called "Boomer & Travis". So far unable to find a mp3 or any recorded verion other than the short bit on the movie.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From:
Date: 13 Apr 05 - 04:16 PM

found it on limewire

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From:
Date: 25 Nov 05 - 02:44 PM

The artist sounds like Jonny Cash to me. I would really like to know who sang it in the movie.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From: GUEST
Date: 03 Dec 05 - 03:17 PM

Not Johnny Cash--

Boomer & Travis aka Lewis & Clarke.

I am transcribing th lyrics, and I'll even throw in the chords!!!!

Subject: Lyr Add: FOUL OWL (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 03 Dec 05 - 03:21 PM

Courtesy Script-o-rama:
http://www.script-o-rama.com/movie_scripts/i/in-the-heat-of-the-night-script.html

FOUL OWL (from 'In the Heat of the Night')

All you little birds better lock up tight
'Cause there's a foul owl on the prowl tonight.
Hey, little lark, get outta the dark.
Foul owl on the prowl.
Cute little jay, stay outta his way.
Foul owl on the prowl.
You just might be the quail he'll tail.
Foul owl on the prowl.
You just might be the swallow he'll follow.
Foul owl on the prowl.
If you hear him hoot, scoot.
If you pass his tree, flee.
If you catch his eye, fly.
Don't wait to say goodbye.

It's in Em. Circle of 5th chorus. Post if you need help with the changes.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From: GUEST
Date: 29 Dec 05 - 12:09 AM

Did anyone ever find a full version of a recording of Foul Owl? The movie only has a portion. Does anyone know if the soundtrack of the movie has a full version? I hate to buy the soundtrack just for the one song or a partial song, although Quincy Jones music is good, so maybe worth it. Anyone know anything about the duo that sang it (Boomer & Travis)? One person said they are aka Lewis & Clarke, but I don't find anything on the net until either group name.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Jerry Gambrel
Date: 01 Jan 06 - 12:49 PM

I have "Foul Owl On The Prowl". I recorded it off off a music downloading site called "RealRhapsody.com". I also used to think they were singing "Bow Wow" On The Prowl until I got the song for myself. It will cost you 79 cents "I think" to record any song you want or at least can find. I couldn't believe they had that song. I also got hooked on that crazy song after watching "In The Heat Of The Night" once on television. Remember, if you go to "RealRhapsody.com" you will find it. Hope this helps everybody.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,DiCat
Date: 05 Feb 06 - 12:41 AM

Boomer and Travis aka Lewis and Clarke sang the song in the movie. I was able to find a website for Boomer, who is a "singing cowboy" and still seems to have a career. He is now known as Michael Martin Murphey. Here is his website: http://www.michaelmartinmurphey.com/bio.htm
But what is weird is on his website he doesn't mention anything about this song. Does anyone want to write to him and tell him that this song has a cult following?? It really sticks in your head after you hear it. Kind of drives ya nuts, but it's a cool song. If anyone writes to this guy, please let us know what he says.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,DiCat
Date: 05 Feb 06 - 12:50 AM

CORRECTION: Michael Martin Murphey was not known as Boomer, he was Travis. Owen Castleman was known as Boomer. Sorry for the mixup.

I looked at his (Murphey's) site at imdb.com and no mention is made of that song in the movie. Maybe they didn't get credit because they didn't write it?

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 07 Feb 06 - 09:47 AM

The Internet Movie Database (IMDb) gives "Boomer and Travis" credit for performing FOUL OWL, (see the entry for "In the Heat of the Night" soundtrack).

I see where allmusic.com says that Michael Martin Murphey performed under the name Travis Lewis as part of a band called The Lewis & Clarke Expedition, and that another member of that group was "Boomer Clarke." "Boomer Clarke" is cross-referenced to Owen Castleman. However, allmusic has no entry for "Boomer and Travis" as such.

It looks like IMDb doesn't credit Murphey for FOUL OWL because they haven't figured out that Murphey and "Travis" are the same person.

Small wonder that a person who has worked under several names doesn't get credit for everything he does.

Subject: Lyr Add: FOUL OWL
From: GUEST,Corey F.
Date: 08 Feb 06 - 04:23 PM

I found these lyrics (and the musical chording to play the song yourself) on this site under tab 1 files: http://homepage.ntlworld.com/john.masterman/QY100/QY100.htm

All you little birds better lock up tight
'Coz there's a foul owl on the prowl tonight.
Hey, little lark, get out of the dark.
Foul owl on the prowl.
Cute little jay, stay out of his way.
Foul owl on the prowl.
You just might be the quail that he'll tail.
Foul owl on the prowl.
You just might be the swaller he'll foller.
Foul owl on the prowl.
If you hear him hoot, scoot.
If you pass his tree, flee.
If you catch his eye, fly.
Don't wait to say 'goodbye'.
He's got a yen for a purty little hen.
Foul owl on the prowl.
He's hungry for a chick, so get home quick.
Foul owl on the prowl.
Foul owl on the prowl.
Foul owl on the prowl.
Foul owl on the prowl.
Foul owl on the prowl.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST
Date: 30 Aug 06 - 11:29 PM

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Brian
Date: 31 Aug 06 - 12:44 AM

Great Song

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Guest ,Matt
Date: 02 Sep 06 - 12:26 AM

When I first saw this movie last fall (05) I loved it, and this song really stuck in my mind. It just reeks pure 60's country/folk and is a awesome song!!! I cant find a CD cheap enough on Ebay, hardly anyone in the US anyway, sells one. I guess this was kind of a one hit wonder........but enough for me to go out and look for the CD mainly for this song. Amazing that for such a odd and minor song in this movie that so many peaple (and me) love it that much that we talk about it. Keep the ( FOUL OWL on the PROWL )

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Little Hawk
Date: 02 Sep 06 - 01:17 AM

It's a wonderful movie. I picked up a used CD of it a few weeks ago and have been watching it again tonight...imagine my surprise when I take an intermission and see that this this thread has shown up again on the forum. Talk about synchronicity!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: catspaw49
Date: 02 Sep 06 - 09:07 PM

Far out.....I'd forgotten entirely about this old thread.......I still watch Heat a lot. A great old movie, well acted, well directed, well written. Thanks for getting those lyrics and to all of you who have helped out since Hawk and I got this thing going!

Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 10 Sep 06 - 06:25 PM

I to got these lyrics stuck in my head. Thanks for the correct title of the song, although "Bow Wow on the Prowltonight," makes the song sound more interesting.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Guest, John
Date: 02 Oct 06 - 11:54 AM

the name was "Owens Castleman"...I don't know what ever became of him, but I remember listening to these guys play at Owens' house when I was in junior high in Dallas back in the sixties...it was years before I figured out that the "Mike" that I used to hear was "Michael Martin Murphy"

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Gareth
Date: 28 Oct 06 - 11:00 AM

I have recently bought In The Heat of the Night and relived seeing the film again, my son also thinks its a cult movie. I now have the soundtrack and I purchased it off the Internet specifically for the Foul Owl song but you simply cant deny the excellent title song from Ray Charles, simply brilliant! I could get most of the lyrics from listening to the song but thanks for the other lines guys.

Anyone yet found any other album that Foul Owl is on or done by Boomer and Travis?
Gareth

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From: GUEST,mozartspony
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 07:50 PM

I'm still looking for this song!
even at this late date
so many days after the beginning
of this thread.

I found this thread through google.
Thanks everyone, I thought I was the
only one that was crazed for this song.

LOL

BTW: the "little red riding hood" song
by Sam the Sham is almost as crazed.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Bow Wow on the Prowl (Foul Owl)
From: GUEST
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 08:08 PM

Just found "Foul Owl"
on Limewire

artist: Quincy Jones

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: strigiology_don
Date: 25 Dec 06 - 11:54 PM

howdy,
what a wealth of information this little mini-forum has provided me on this song.
indeed, it does seem to have a cult-following; being this one song was the impetus for a thread that started in 2000!
any hoot (no pun intended), it is good to know what the real song is, who wrote it, whence one can get a pirated copy or a bona-fide one, and what the full lyrics are.
now all we need is a 'fowl owl' get together where we can all dance like that cafe guy did in the movie.
thanks for the info, folks.

(by the way, i am an amateur strigiologist, a person who studies owls. i didn't know this song was owl related until i came across this thread, thinking all these years, now, this song was "bow wow on the prowl").

merry Christmas, and loads-a-cheer into the new year.
don

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: catspaw49
Date: 26 Dec 06 - 08:18 PM

And just to wrap up.......The cafe guy or counterman in the movie was played by Anthony James, a journeyman actor who portrayed guys much like Ralph the Counterman thru his whole career. He retired at age 50 after playing a weirdo cowboy in Clint Eastwood's "The Unforgiven."He'd popup on something every once in awhile and I'd be, "HEY LOOK!!! It's the FOWL OWL GUY!!!"

Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Bryan S
Date: 27 Jan 07 - 04:36 AM

This is really quite amazing, as just today I corrected someone who thought the lyric was Bow Wow, and told him it was Foul Owl! I have an original copy of the LP from ITHOTN, however there is nothing to play it on, LOL.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 28 Jan 07 - 05:52 AM

all those who had no luck tracking down the ITHOTN ost should try this link, straight frpm vinyl:

http://rapidshare.com/files/13762145/16_Boomer___Travis_-_Foul_Owl.mp3.html

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,WhooWhooLane
Date: 07 Feb 07 - 01:04 AM

I think Carol Doda (world famous stripper from the world famous Condor Club in San Francisco) had an act at the Condor where she would dance naked on top of a shabby, old piano and a recorded version of "Fowl Owl On The Prowl" would be played. If I remember correctly it was on a reel to reel tape system piped through the clubs sound system. I sure do miss the Condor Club. Carol Doda was the greatest thing to happen to the North Beach (Broadway) District!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: strigiology_don
Date: 16 Feb 07 - 10:35 AM

hey GUEST, thanks for providing the link for downloading our club's (ie., this forum's) national anthem.
now, were any of us to go on that dreadfully popular tv show 'american idol' we have something to practice with as we kareoke our way all the way up to the finals (if that's what they're called).
at the least, after morning prayers we sing this to give our day a good & funny start. you got to do that 'counter-man' dance with it, just to give it funny-as-hell flavor.
maybe someone can upload an excerpt of the scene so we can practice the steps. i'd love to see a video of that lady dancer mentioned above.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 16 Feb 07 - 05:32 PM

"http://rapidshare.com/files/13762145/16_Boomer___Travis_-_Foul_Owl.mp3.html "

After going thru all the hoops it tells me that the file is not on the server.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 17 Feb 07 - 03:58 PM

This is weird... I saw this movie for the first time when I was about fifteen (i'm 33 now) and I was totally fascinated by the song. I saw it again when I was 25 and tonight, for some reason, i Googled this song and discovered this thread. Funny that I'm not the only one who's mesmerized by this song.
Thanks for the Rapidshare link!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Little Hawk
Date: 17 Feb 07 - 05:40 PM

It's the ultimate of a certain type of song from a certain genre. It simply reeks with sleazy redneck lust. That's why it's so memorable.

Man, I think I'll get that DVD out and watch it again tonight.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST,flyfisher
Date: 20 Mar 07 - 03:47 AM

Unreal, the think that this thread has been going for this long nad the thing that stands out is I saw this at the movies in Paua New Guinea over 30 years ago and that song has stuck in my memory ever since. I finally have a copy of the MP3 - thanks dudes. Just watched the DVD again and when finished started this search. A true classic.

PS the web site still exists and yes you can download the track for free:http://rapidshare.com/files/13762145/16_Boomer___Travis_-_Foul_Owl.mp3.html
dont sign just follow the free path and enter the code requested and away you go - track is good quality.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,bill
Date: 04 May 07 - 05:23 AM

thanks for the info I to have been after this song for years

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 21 May 07 - 01:28 PM

A great song and a great movie. The song is getting the attention it deserves in this thread! I found an mp3 awhile back using a Gnutella peer to peer client.

For what it's worth, here's my transcription (added to from lyrics previously posted)

All you little birds better lock up tight
'Cause there's a foul owl on the prowl tonight.

Hey, little lark, get outta the dark.
Foul owl on the prowl.

Cute little jay, stay outta his way.
Foul owl on the prowl.

You just might be the quail he'll tail.
Foul owl on the prowl.

You just might be the swallow he'll follow.
Foul owl on the prowl.

If you hear him hoot, scoot.
If you pass his tree, flee.
If you catch his eye, fly.
Don't wait to say goodbye.

He's gotta a yen for a pretty little hen.
Foul owl on the prowl.

He's hungry for a chick so get home quick.
Foul owl on the prowl.

(howling... laughter... scary sounds...)

If you hear him hoot, scoot.
If you pass his tree, flee.
If you catch his eye, fly.
Don't wait to say goodbye.

He's gotta a yen for a pretty little hen.
Foul owl on the prowl.

He's hungry for a chick so get home quick.
Foul owl on the prowl. (repeating to fade)

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,zyxxrd
Date: 29 Jun 07 - 07:26 PM

Hey, all u foul owl fans check out youtube. The clip has been posted, when u revisit dont forget to thank the provider

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST,Angie
Date: 06 Jul 07 - 09:35 PM

Hey, I watched this for the first time this week and immediately Googled the song...it must be hypnotic or something, this seems to be a common reaction!! I'm off to search for it.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from'In the Heat of the Night')
From: GUEST,Texas, of course!
Date: 14 Jul 07 - 03:22 PM

Unbelievable!! I too, saw the movie for the first time this morning on a movie channel. I had to find out more about the song. I also Googled it. I'm still looking for the song to download. Any other suggestions on where & how to get it on my ipod? How, now brown cow...Am I in the "Fowl Owl" club now?

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from'In the Heat of the Night')
From: catspaw49
Date: 14 Jul 07 - 04:23 PM

To add to my post above regarding Anthony James, the actor who played the counterman at the diner (and also was the father of Delores Purdy's unborn child).

He is now living in Massachusetts and is a successful modern artist. Look up his work on the web at The Arden Gallery. ALso, the actress who played Delores Purdy, Quentin Dean, only acted in a few more movies and TV episodes after this. She seems to have retired and hidden herself from the public eye as completely as one can.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST
Date: 18 Jul 07 - 04:07 PM

FOUL OWL!
have a listen here...
myspace.com/firstperiod1

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,G. from the Netherlands
Date: 25 Jul 07 - 05:35 PM

Hello eveybody,

Also catched by this song and watched it many times on video. Now on you tube. Thanks for all the information.

Enschede , the Netherlands

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Chris UK
Date: 21 Aug 07 - 01:38 PM

OK am trying to find the whole song for fowl owl.
I am glad to have read all comments. cant find it anywhere on the web Thanks for the clip from you tube though.
real rhapsody doesnt have it.
Not on my space
yahoo music
Not on rapid share either
So anyone who CAN help I would be very grateful
Chris

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 12 Sep 07 - 01:57 PM

in searching for the song, i found this thread and have enjoyed reading all these comments. i consider myself pretty knowledgeable when it comes to songs from the 60's and 70's as long as it's top 40. i always get excited when i don't know who sang a song and i have to hunt for the answers and then find a copy of it. i'm pretty new on a computer but i now see why people are so crazy about them. I would like all to know that i've personally driven a big truck(18wheeler) across that bridge that was in the movie. i didn't know at the time but when i saw the movie i thought that was cool. i was hoping to get into the foul owl club with those credentials cause i'm definitely no computer whiz. thanks for all the info.                                                                rob

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Jen
Date: 13 Sep 07 - 01:34 AM

This is hilarious, I have been looking for this song too. Thought I might be the only one tried many searches on sites. I too thought it was "bow wow on the prowl" and my husband found the correct name. Thanks for the info.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 04 Oct 07 - 10:21 PM

Wow, this is amazing to me! I first saw this movie about four years ago, and saw it again about a year and a half ago. This song was what stood out most of all. I started looking for it about a year ago and nobody I knew had ever heard of it or knew anything about it. Every so often I will try to find it and tonight I came across this thread. I never knew there were others out there....too funny.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Azizi
Date: 05 Oct 07 - 06:56 PM

Here's the link to the YouTube video that was mentioned.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2LedoHwygE

Added: June 24, 2007; From: lupine22
From the 1967 movie "In the Heat of the Night," the "Foul Owl on the Prowl" sequence, played by Boomer & Travis.

-snip-

The video clip poster's summary comments include the song's lyrics. They seem to be the same as those posted by GUEST Date: 21 May 07 - 01:28 PM.

**

So does this make me a member of the "Foul Owl On The Prowl" club?

If so, that's a hoot!

:o}

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Azizi
Date: 05 Oct 07 - 07:24 PM

Earlier in this thread someone mentioned that the song "Little Red Riding Hood" reminds him or her of the "Foul Owl" song. It reminds me of that song too.

Here's a YouTube song clip of Little Red Riding Hood" that is presented along with a collage of Little Red Riding Hood drawings:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ql4-Asw3hCc&mode=related&search=
Sam The Sham and the Pharaohs - Little Red Riding Hood

Added: March 10, 2007 ; From: Splainit
"from 1966..I touched up some of the pictures with Photoshop and colorized some as well. This is the 45 r.p.m. version of the song. I think this is the best version."

-snip-

The "from 1966" refers to the date that Sam The Sham and the Pharaohs recorded this version.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST,Totz
Date: 19 Oct 07 - 03:24 PM

FYI... according to the commentary in the movie... the director originally wanted to get "Little Red Riding Hood" for that scene, but Sam The Sham and the Pharoahs wanted too much money for it... so Quincy Jones composed this little ditty instead.. so that explains why the songs sound so similar... great song though!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST,THE MAN
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 01:26 PM

Hey, little lark, get outta the dark
Foul owl on the prowl
Cute little jay, stay outta his way
Foul owl on the prowl
You just might be the quail he'll tail
Foul owl on the prowl
You just might be the swallow he'll follow
Foul owl on the prowl
If you hear him hoot--scoot
lf you pass his tree--flee
If you catch his eye--fly
Don't wait to say goodbye...

He's got a yen for a pretty little hen
Foul owl on the prowl
He's hungry for a chick, so get home quick
Foul owl on the prowl

Foul owl on the prowl
(Mwu-ha-ha)
Foul owl on the prowl

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: catspaw49
Date: 09 Jan 08 - 03:55 PM

Say there MAN.....Didja' happen to notice that the complete lyrics had already been posted at least twice before? Oh well, yours can be the official "2008" posting as we have one in 2006 and 2007.

So welcome to the "Foul Owl Club" where we say "Hooo gives a turkey how many times the lyrics are posted?" There'll be a delay on the shipping of your Secret Decoder Ring though but none of us have ours either!

Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST,screech
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 12:55 AM

Geeeeeez......I can't believe this song has got everyone as mesmerized as me. Hadn't seen the movie in years and caught it on cable when home sick the other day. When that scene came on I jumped off the couch and PAID ATTENTION. It just blew me away and I've been obsessed ever since. What's the deal with it? Almost scary.

BTW - If anyone wants the real chords I'll share them. That PDF on that link has a bunch of mistakes. Also got an mp3 if you say please.

screech

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST,Octane
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 01:45 PM

Thanks for the lyrics and MP3! I Googled the soundtrack after watching the movie and becoming obsessed with this song, and after I found out what it was called I looked up the lyrics, too, and this place was the result. Also, this thread has stood the test of time, eh?

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Little Hawk
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 02:07 PM

And then...there's this:

the Foul Owl

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST,Octane
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 03:37 PM

That certainly is a foul owl. >.>

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 09:43 AM

my e-mail is : [e-mail]
please send me the mp3! ;) i will make sure to send you some nice stuff too...

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Jeff
Date: 01 Mar 08 - 09:22 PM

I told Boomer Castleman about this thread and how weird it was that it has been going on for eight years. He replied with the following memory about the song:
Michael Martin Murphey and I did that for Quincy Jones back in '67 and the sound track won an Oscar for best sound track in 1968! Quincy Jones received the Oscar and gave us all "mini Oscars" for our performance. How cool! Best Boomer

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Frank
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 04:58 PM

Viva Le Foul Owl! this is all bizzare. Do I even need to say it? I too was mezmerized first time around? Just saw the movie my second time after a couple of years and when "the scene" was coming I got all excited. To go with the sound, I also remembered how Ralph looked like a weirdo dancing to it. Someone brought up the Red Riding Hood/ Sam Sham connection and according to IMDB Little Red RidingHood WAS the song playing during filming, it was changed after the fact. Peace out, I've got a yen for a purty little hen.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: catspaw49
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 06:22 PM

               Welcome to the

MUDCAT CAFE FOUL OWL CLUB

    ........Weird ain't it?

Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Brian
Date: 16 Mar 08 - 05:06 PM

re: the Boomer quote above about the mini-Oscars, the thing is, not only did ITHOTH not win, it wasn't even nominated for best score or best song. It won the Best Sound award, but that's not the music.

also, a Q: there was a reference above to the extra director's voiceover version on the DVD saying it was Glen Campbell performing -- did somebody get that wrong? or is Jewison wrong? or is it actually correct that this is Campbell? it's also listed in the IMDB trivia as being Campbell. it doesn't sound like him, and it does sound like a duo.

can somebody help clear up? after eight years! :-)

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,GUEST
Date: 17 Mar 08 - 01:45 AM

Great thread... and the translation utility is a tasty dessert. It's amazing that no retro band over the decades has covered "Fowl Owl" - you'd think someone would've! Just to see what would happen, I tried translating the lyrics... unfortunately the translator doesn't provide phonic equivalency from non-Western languages w/o language packs (so no lyrics for, say, the 5678's in Japanese, which would be a major hoot)... here's what came out...

French: Encrassez le hibou sur le vagabondage. Encrassez le hibou sur le vagabondage.

Spanish: Ensucie el buho en el vagabundeo. Ensucie el buho en el vagabundeo.

German: Beschmutzen Sie Eule auf dem Prowl. Beschmutzen Sie Eule auf dem Prowl.

Italian: Gufo di fallo sul prowl. Gufo di fallo sul prowl.

and, probably the best of the bunch, meter-wise, Dutch: Bevuil uil op prowl. Bevuil uil op prowl.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Someone who wants to help
Date: 03 Jun 08 - 11:49 PM

Hey guys,

I saw In the Heat of the Night recently, and like so many of you I got addicted to Foul Owl!! I searched everywhere for a download, but found nothing except YouTube videos. This was by far the most helpful site though, and I was amazed by the 8-year thread!! WOW. You guys love this song.

So good news, HERE'S HOW YOU CAN GET IT on your iPod / computer / whatever:

Okay go to this YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FctEF2z5opk That's the uninterrupted version in all of its glory.

THEN you have to download this (or probably any other recording software, I just thought this was free and easy): http://www.mp3mymp3.com/mp3_my_mp3_recorder.html Use the download.com link, that works great with no viruses or whatnot. Once you have that installed and up and running, make sure your SOURCE is set on Stereo Mix and play around with your volume until you like it.

Click play on the youtube video, then immediately click the record button. (Make sure the vid. is fully downloaded btw). Now you wait. I chose to dance around a bit. (: Then once its all done, click stop on the recorder, and save it as an mp3 file (the option is right below record). After that, it's all yours! :D The quality isn't 100% to be honest, but its fine if you love the song enough.

GOOD LUCK AND I HOPE I COULD HELP.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Paul J. Weighell
Date: 11 Jul 08 - 06:29 PM

Only heard the Foul Owl song tonight but got as hooked as you lot!

I have put it here as an mp3 in case anyone has still not got it.

www.paulweighell.com/foulowlontheprowl.mp3

If anyone has a midi of the tune please let me know...

Paul J. Weighell

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST,Pahokee Pete
Date: 18 Jul 08 - 11:12 PM

Thanks Paul.

I've been hunting for an mp3 of that tune for quite a long time.

I first saw that movie in '67 in an old old theater deep in the old south. That tune has never left my memory.

All in all a excellent movie, with a fantastic sound track.

Thanks again

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Damjan Kovacic
Date: 21 Jul 08 - 07:57 PM

Thanks for the song.
I've seen the movie just few weeks ago and was instantlly amazed by the song, trying to remember it. It's the sceen (and the dance) as well, that makes it so good. Anyway, after searching through google it was nice to find so many people talking about the same song.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Superfluous Bungee
Date: 14 Aug 08 - 01:17 AM

Honest, I don't know why except I heard Little Red Riding Hood tonight and (as many do) immediately thought of this one. Nice detective work and follow ups. A fun read.

We are but coda Yoda

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: Will Fly
Date: 14 Aug 08 - 03:20 AM

I bought the film sound track CD - just for "Foul Owl". Made sense.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Jimbo
Date: 26 Aug 08 - 10:11 AM

I just saw the film for the first time and loved the song, hence my finding this thread.

Re Boomer Castleman's comments - the film won the Grammy, not the Oscar, for best soundtrack. He obviously got them mixed up.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Jimbo
Date: 26 Aug 08 - 10:13 AM

My mistake - it was only nominated.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST
Date: 14 Sep 08 - 07:22 PM

somone please send me the mpw for fowl owl on the prowl, just saw in the heat of the night, heard the song for a spli second, first time ever in my life to hear or even watch that movie, thot i should google it and i found this thread

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Little Hawk
Date: 14 Sep 08 - 07:34 PM

I think this may be my favorite Mudcat music thread of all time. Gotta love it. ;-)

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: catspaw49
Date: 14 Sep 08 - 10:46 PM

I agree Hawk.......The best of the 'Cat at its strangest while coming up with some authoritative and FUN factoids.

Every time this one comes up I want to start a Fowl Owl Club with T-Shirts, membership cards, maybe even a secret decoder gizmo.......

Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST,lapinova
Date: 21 Sep 08 - 02:14 PM

This soundtrack doesn't seem to be available in Canada, I'd buy it in a heartbeat if it was.
None of those links above seem to work, but if someone wants to email me ([e-mail]) I'd be a happy rabbit.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 22 Sep 08 - 04:44 PM

This link to YouTube—which I copied from the post by "GUEST,Someone who wants to help" above—works fine for me.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Cluin
Date: 30 Sep 08 - 02:41 AM

Boomer Castleman had a solo hit in `75 with his song "Judy Mae" (a sordid little story song involving quasi-incest and suicide). He also had written "What Am I Doin' Hangin' `Round?" for the Monkees with Michael Martin Murphey. He also invented the Bigsby PalmPedal, a steel guitar-like string bending device for electric and acoustic guitars.

Boomer Castleman's website: http://www.boomercastleman.com.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,JD Holloway
Date: 04 Oct 08 - 12:31 AM

I'd like to know all of the chords and where the chords change if you wouldn't mind doing that for me

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 08 Oct 08 - 03:35 AM

could someone post a new link to Foul Owl.I really want this song and the links on this page are dead and I cant find it anywhere.Its not on rapidshare,mp3 rocket,and google is a let down.So please could someone help me and the other people who are searching for this song and post it.Thanks to all

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 09 Oct 08 - 02:42 PM

GUEST: please look again at my last message at 22 Sep 08 - 04:44 PM. I gave a link there which worked then and still works now.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: PoppaGator
Date: 15 Oct 08 - 03:36 PM

I really enjoyed reading through this thread last week; I'm amazed that I had never encountered it before.

I've watched "In The Heat of the Night" quite a few times on TV, but not recently, and I don't recall the song in question. I'll be keeping my ears open next time!

Quincy Jones is/was a musical genius, and I'm sure he did a great job creating a musical "substitute" for Sam the Sham's classic, complete with tongue-in-cheek inside-joke lyrics.

I was reminded of this whole discussion a couple of nights ago while watching the more recent film "That Thing You Do," which features many newly-written songs designed to evoke the sound of the sixties (or, more accurately, several different "sounds" of that era).

The title song is a wonderful "Beatlesque" creation, as are two or three additional songs supposedly written, and actually performed, by the band composed of the central characters.

Even more amazing and admirable is the collection of numbers performed by the other acts sharing their tour bus: there's a black girl group that looks like the Supremes but actually sounds more like the Shirelles, a solo act more or less in the mold of, say, Leslie Gore (although one of you may suggest a more apt comparison) and a few others, and all of them do songs written for the movie that recreate recognizeable styles. It's like a whole parallel universe of '60s pop music ~ and the composers just did a great job on every one of them.

The whote effort reminded me of this discussion of a single made-for-a-movie song intended to echo a specific real-world hit tune without actually "covering" or duplicating it.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Carol
Date: 05 Dec 08 - 01:38 AM

I just remembered to look up that song (y'all know which one!) because it has been running through my head. Great song, great thread, great movie! I first saw the movie when it was released. Here it is almost Christmas 2008 and we still talk about it.

Anthony James was also a great "bad guy" in the film, dancing to the song.

Thanks everyone for posting the lyrics.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Monksqueal
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 04:08 PM

Still no Mp3 posted? Can't someone convert it from youtube and post a REAL link that works?

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: catspaw49
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 09:19 PM

Feel free. The YouTube link works fine though.......

Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: catspaw49
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 09:20 PM

and.............

100

Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Little Hawk
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 09:47 PM

Aww, crap! I'll never live it down that you beat me to this one, man. ;-)

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Clifton53
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 03:45 PM

Amazing thread, still going after all this time. Mudcat at it's best! Thanx for the many links, the YouTube one from Jim is really cool, no interruptions in the song.

It's great how one song can get such a response and be so informative

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Feb 09 - 02:00 PM

If for no other reason than to keep this thing going...

I like everyone else googled this song and found this terrific thread. Simply amazing! Great song, great movie. Weird how the song has such a cult following.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 13 Mar 09 - 08:23 AM

I just watched the "In the Heat of the Night" DVD last weekend. The commentary narrative that you can turn on during this movie discusses this song. It said to avoid paying royalities to play an existing song, Quincy Jones, who wrote the theme song, wrote "Bow Wow on the Prowl." This song only existed for this movie. The only place where it maybe recorded is on the movie sound track. I guess they may have released a movie sound track LP.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: strigiology_don
Date: 10 Apr 09 - 06:42 PM

I have an MP3 of this; had it for years. If I knew a way of attaching it permanently to this forum I would. Should anyone need a copy to attach as a permanent link for those interested you can email me - donmagel-at-netscape-dot-net
{take out the - the email addy}
whoooo,
don

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: strigiology_don
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 07:47 PM

I also have a 92 MB avi of the clip (downloaded & converted from a flv video available on YouTube) from the movie wherein this song is played.
As noted in my mp3 notice just above, if anyone knows how to make it 'permanently available' to all who happen by this small Foul (Fowl) Owl forum email me and I'll send the files to you.
{I'm not an "intellectual property" lawyer, so I don't know the copyright infringement pecularities in all this, but since it's only a movie clip & a song from the soundtrack it can't be such a big thing. Or maybe it is.}

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: strigiology_don
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 07:57 PM

Oops, I didn't mean to say 92 MB.
The avi file is 16 MBs.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,guest
Date: 19 May 09 - 04:33 PM

The producers wanted to use 'Li'l Red Riding Hood' by Sam The Sham and The Pharaohs, which was a huge camp hit on the airwaves in 1966.

CLICK HERE

Unfortunately, Sam, who was known for his big ego, demanded an absurd amount of money for the rights to the song. So the producers had Quincy Jones write up something similar, which of course cost them much less money. When I hear it it sounds like a parody of the Pharaohs song, but that's just me I guess. The two songs do sound extremely similar.

---------------Link fixed ----------------------

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: catspaw49
Date: 19 May 09 - 04:55 PM

Thanks for posting that same info again Guest. Drop back and post it again next year!

Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: PoppaGator
Date: 16 Jun 09 - 01:36 PM

A couple of weeks ago, ITHOTN came on TV (TCM) and I had the opportunity to watch it for the first time since encountering this thread and becoming conscious of the song.

I certainly enjoyed the experience ~ brought a whole new perspective to watching a familiar old film!

(Maybe when our friend "GUEST" posts the same info yet again next year, he will have learned to make a Blue Clicky for the YouTube link!)

---------------Your wish is our command! Mudelf.------------

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Ni
From: Will Fly
Date: 16 Jun 09 - 01:43 PM

The CD of the soundtrack of the film contains the song. Buy the CD:

In The Heat Of The Night

Subject: RE: Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night')
From: Cool Beans
Date: 27 Jun 09 - 03:52 PM

Just saw the movie again last night. Great film, but, sorry, "Foul Owl" is a third-rate knockoff of "Little Red Riding Hood" and I say this as someone who was once handed an award by one of its writers, Marilyn Bergman.

Subject: RE: Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night')
From: catspaw49
Date: 27 Jun 09 - 07:37 PM

Why are you sorry Beans? I think we've all pretty much agreed on that but its a wonderful ripoff. Copyright royalties made it much better to write "original" stuff that was similar to the country/pop that was probably on the radio at a small town southern country station and Ralph's jukebox.

Did you ever read the story of how much Stephen King continues to pay in royalties for his book "Christine?" Every chapter opened with a few lines from a 50's R&R classic. He said he'd learned a serious lesson and would never do THAT again!

Spaw

Subject: RE: Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night')
From: GUEST,Uncle Mo
Date: 28 Jun 09 - 03:27 AM

This is a great forum going here. I just watched In The Heat Of The Night, last night again for an uncounted times over the years. It's one of those movies you never tire of.
And like everyone else, can't wait until Anthony picks open that "Seeburg Jukebox" to get a free play of Foul Owl.

For such a catchy tune it seems strange how it never got any air play anywhere in the country.
I wonder if it was ever available back in the 90's when Napster first appeared and everyone was uploading and downloading each others music files. I recall finding a few music files that I thought were impossibe to be had back then.

Well, Fowl Owl to all. Keep the bird alive and sing'in.
From Uncle Mo in New Jersey.

Subject: RE: Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night')
From: GUEST,Uncle Mo
Date: 09 Jul 09 - 10:13 PM

I have been playing around with the Fowl Owl audio file and have remixed an interesting file.
Of course it's not in stereo but I have altered the file and it sounds fairly well.
If anyone is interested, I could post it to YouTube.
I have extended the song as well as overmixed some of the movie clips.

Uncle Mo

Subject: RE: Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night')
From: catspaw49
Date: 10 Jul 09 - 01:36 AM

Why not? This is one of our weirdest threads so why not keep the wackiness going.

I really do need to look into T-Shirts or something........


Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 12 Aug 09 - 03:51 AM

i watched the movie on cable last night, and finally decided to look for this song.....       i have been cracking up at the tune, and talking about it since the movie first came out...    and now, i just found this thread and can't believe what i am reading...   what a hoot...   literally....   fowl owl...    all this time i thought it was bow wow, like everyone else on this amazing thread, that's run for the past, what - ten years?!      the irony is, i am in the concert biz for the 30 years.    i can find musicians and get stuff done!!!   i gotta get this song played live by the original players...   michael martin murphey is out here in calif in mid nov.   i swear to god, i am going to go out to the gig and talk to the guy. and owen castleman, better known to this thread as boomer, is gonna get a call, in texas, where the dude lives.   i have a client in galveston, and am out there a lot.   i drive to his house, if i have to....

back to you folks, you crazy people...    i love this !!!!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,ken standing
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 07:10 PM

Thank you, thank you, thank you.....have just put the youtube clip in my favourites. I've been a Fowlowlite for 20+ years and never expected to find out the whole song. Now I find there's a community!

It's the neat,jokey/scary understated quality....simple but catchy and satisfying....or something like that.............:)

My life is complete...............now I can SCOOT!!

best wishes and thanks again.........

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Octane
Date: 22 Oct 09 - 04:12 PM

Just randomly thought of this thread and decided to post for '09! I'm a bit late though, only 2 1/2 months till we're at 2010. :P Real interesting tidbit about that Sam the Sham song. This song still creeps me out a bit, gives me goosebumps!

I remember watching this with my dad when I was home sick, and we got into an argument about whether or not it was a "real" song. Well, come to find out it wasn't - that was my first post! - and now I find that it's INSPIRED BY a real song. Welp, see you in 2010!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 04 Dec 09 - 03:13 PM

I've looked a few times for an MP3 of this song with no luck. Then I found this thread and the Youtube video mentioned previously at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FctEF2z5opk . Since all the previous links to download an MP3 version were dead I went ahead and made an MP3 from the youtube video and now I'm posting a link here.

If you use a player that supports album art there's a nice shot of Ralph leaning over the jukebox included and the 'comments' field has a summary of factual info I got from this thread. I also entered the lyrics from this page into the lyrics database for lyrics plugin for Winamp/Windows Media Player (http://www.lyricsplugin.com/ ) Enjoy.

http://rapidshare.com/files/316342386/Foul_Owl_on_the_Prowl.mp3.html

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,zzzhuh
Date: 28 Jan 10 - 10:14 PM

All you little birds better lock up tight
'Coz there's a foul owl on the prowl tonight.
Hey, little lark, get out of the dark.
Foul owl on the prowl.
Cute little jay, stay out of his way.
Fowl owl on the prowl.
You just might be the quail that he'll tail.
Foul owl on the prowl.
You just might be the swaller he'll foller.
Foul owl on the prowl.
If you hear him hoot, scoot.
If you pass his tree, flee.
If you catch his eye, fly.
Don't wait to say 'goodbye'.
He's got a yen for a purty little hen.
Fowl owl on the prowl.
He's hungry for a chick, so get home quick.
Foul owl on the prowl.
Fowl owl on the prowl.
Fowl owl on the prowl.
Fowl owl on the prowl.
Fowl owl on the prowl.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Uncle Mo
Date: 28 Mar 10 - 02:00 PM

I don't know why, but I am having a problem uploading anything to YOUTUBE.
Everytime I try to upload the page seems to keep skipping quickly and I have to shut the site down and start over, but again, the same problem.
I would like to upload the extended version of Fowl Owl if I ever figure out my problem.

As a matter of fact, after my H.D. failed last year I had a bit of trouble trying to find this website again.

It's certainly nothing great, but a bit different.

Uncle Mo

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,smithy
Date: 04 Jul 10 - 04:55 PM

Hi
Could you post those chords for "Bowlegged Polly" and "Foul Owl" please.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,David1949
Date: 10 Jul 10 - 03:48 AM

Believe it or not, I first saw "In the Heat of the Night" when I was 18 in 1968. I never forgot this scene! I was doorman in a theatre in Seattle while attending UW. Until tonight, I too always thought it was BOWWOW on Prow-owl.

Not for nothing did I discover this thread. Thanks to everyone who contributed!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,manatee
Date: 12 Jul 10 - 07:30 PM

I just watched ITHOTN for the first time tonight on BBC 4 in the UK, shown after an excellent program with Rich Hall on the history of Hollywood portrayals of the South.

When the jukebox scene came on, I leant straight over to the computer and Googled "Bow wow on the prowl..." Read through this thread, chuckled heartily, was sure it would end somewhere, but was pleased to see people still posting on the song in 2010! Just bought the track on iTunes and had to come back and post so I could join the Foul Owl Club.

Spaw - you've had (another!) year – where are those t-shirts???

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Martin
Date: 15 Jul 10 - 10:39 AM

I have DEFINITELY seen the diner juke box scene with the original Sam the Sham song! I recall not knowing who it was that was singing about Li'l Red Riding Hood and wanting to find out. But WHERE and WHEN could I have seen/heard it??? Has there been a director's cut of the movie made or something? This is puzzling the crap outa me!! i can find no talk of a 'restored' or 'alternative original' version anywhere on the web.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Martin
Date: 15 Jul 10 - 11:14 AM

Somebody requested the chords for Foul Owl, I believe. Here they are:

Verses
|Em    |A7      |G       |C7 B7 |
|Em    |G       |C7 B7 |Em      |

Chorus
|E(major)|Am      |D7    |G       |
|C          |Am F# |B7    |          |

have fun!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Smithy
Date: 25 Jul 10 - 04:26 PM

Thanks for the chords Martin. Having lots of fun. Great song for the kids.

Bowlegged Polly chords anybody?

Not too sure how "PC" Bowlegged Polly is being as it seems to be about inbreeding and deformity and all. I take it that this song was written by Quincy Jones. The racial context of the film and the fact that it was sung by the "Rhinestone Cowboy" makes the song bitingly satirical of the Deep South. This is just one example of the very clever use of soundtrack music and music effects in this great film.

Smithy (ITHOTN fan)

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Another guest
Date: 09 Sep 10 - 03:57 PM

Came across this by googling "Bow Wow on the Prowl" as I was watching In the Heat of the Night.
What a surprise to find it's really Fowl Owl not Bow Wow. An even bigger surprise is all the homework everyone did on this site. You folks know your stuff.
Now, if you Google Fowl Owl on the Prowl, you can get downloads, information on the song, the lyrics, the movie, etc.
Amazing how much information has been added since this thread started back in '00!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Leaddog
Date: 16 Jan 11 - 11:37 PM

It's 2011 now, going on 11 years for this thread.
There's an artist in San Diego with a painting of a Foul Owl.
http://jillianseaman.blogspot.com/
Could be on the prowl.

Here's a website with a nice treatment of the song, written by a reader or contributor of this thread.
http://www.rockpeaks.com/video/j/Jones-Quincy/In-The-Heat-Of-The-Night-1967/Foul-Owl-on-the-Prowl

By the way, is it possible that Glen Campbell played the banjo for this song? He was a big star in 1967, winning 4 Grammys.

Subject: RE: Foul Owl (from "In the Heat of the Night")
From: GUEST,rcdjones
Date: 17 Jan 11 - 11:39 AM

Wow. Just amazing, this forum about this song--especially since the thread originated 11 years ago. (Is that some kind of record?) I'm nearly 52, and have been wondering for YEARS whether the ITHOTN jukebox song was some little-known or unreleased Sham the Sham & the Pharaohs track. I mean, its resemblance to "Little Red Riding Hood" is unmistakeable, and caught my attention the very first time I ever heard it back in the 60s.

So after years of wondering about it every time the movie has aired on television over the years, I finally decided this morning to research it. Imagine my delight at finding this forum and the other sites mentioned by posters here! The story behind the song is fascinating: just the type of obscure pop music trivia I love. Thanks to everyone here for helping set the record straight.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Cool Beans
Date: 17 Jan 11 - 04:02 PM

11 years and going strong! Dig the bird, carry the word.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Will Fly
Date: 19 Jan 11 - 11:39 AM

Having dug out my copy of "In The Heat Of The Night" and had another listen to "Foul Owl:, I just couldn't resist having a crack at it.

You can't possibly beat the original, but I had fun doing it anyway...

Will Fly - "Foul Owl On The Prowl"

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,DX
Date: 21 Jan 11 - 06:04 AM

JusT SAW In the Heat of the Night .

I Too love Foul owl .
Funny to see so many people get   the lyrics wrong .
I heard it correctly the 1st time itself .


ALSO : Longest thread in INTERNET history .

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 21 Jan 11 - 07:06 AM

~_~

hai people , a few links for you ......

VIDEO : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FctEF2z5opk

FOR AN MP3 , Visit :   http://www.youtube-mp3.org/

OR


Direct mp3 link [ takes around A minute to convert ] -

http://www.youtube-mp3.org/#v=FctEF2z5opk

Click on download .

FILE INFO : Size : 1.2 Mb
2Min , 43 s
64 Kbps BITRATE


Enjoy !
:)

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Cool Beans
Date: 21 Jan 11 - 12:50 PM

Will,
   I like your version better than the original.
CB

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: Will Fly
Date: 21 Jan 11 - 02:03 PM

Hi CB - very kind of you to say so. I personally think it's hard to beat the "cool" of the original - but I'm flattered that you like my simple version!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,GUEST bigbobper
Date: 25 Jan 11 - 01:09 AM

I just bought a soundrtrack CD "In The Heat Of The Night" & "They Call Me Mr. Tibbs". It contains 20 tracks from ITHOTN including "FOUL OWL" & "BOWLEGGED POLLY". It also contains 15 tracks from TCMMT.

I got it through AMAZON. I got a used (Very Good) copy for about 10 bucks inc. S&H. They also show new copies starting at $ 39.99 at the moment.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,icebreud
Date: 28 Jan 11 - 12:39 AM

Thank you for posting this link!

http://www.youtube-mp3.org/#v=FctEF2z5opk

Quick and easy .mp3 of Foul Owl... THE FULL VERSION! Only taken me about ten years to find it!

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,AnotherGuest
Date: 09 Feb 11 - 02:31 AM

Thanks all for this amazing long-living thread, and especially to the person that posted the http://www.youtube-mp3.org/#v=FctEF2z5opk link. Brilliant.

Subject: ALL AMERICAN DIVA
From: Michelle McCool
Date: 11 Apr 11 - 08:36 AM

hai everyone ...........



LYRICS :



All you little birds better lock up tight

'Cause there's a foul owl on the prowl tonight.

Hey, little lark, get outta the dark,

Foul owl on the prowl.

Cute little jay, stay outta his way,

Foul owl on the prowl.

You just might be the quail he'll tail,

Foul owl on the prowl.

You just might be the swallow he'll follow,

Foul owl on the prowl.

If you hear him hoot, scoot,

If you pass his tree, flee,

If you catch his eye, fly,

Don't wait to say goodbye.

He's got a yen for a purty little hen,

Foul owl on the prowl.

He's hungry for a chick, so get home quick,

Foul owl on the prowl...whhhooo.

If you hear him hoot, scoot,

If you pass his tree, flee,

If you catch his eye, fly,

Don't wait to say goodbye.

He's got a yen for a purty little hen,

Foul owl on the prowl.

He's hungry for a chick, so get home quick,

Foul owl on the prowl...whhhooo



VIDEOS :



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FctEF2z5opk



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JatYt3EHtc



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2LedoHwygE



DOWNLOAD IT :



http://www.sendspace.com/file/ebkn4b

MP3 DOWNLOAD LINK







~_~



TWEET ME :)

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 05:43 PM

Let me just pull this thread into 2012. It deserves it.
I posted here before, on 17 Feb 07 to be precise, when I wrote I was 33. I'm 38 now, and I've fathered two kids since... "The Owl" is one of the few track in my iTunes library that has the "Lyrics" field completed, and the only track where it doesn't contain the lyrics, but a summary of this page. I watched the video on Youtube again today and I still love it...

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: catspaw49
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 08:58 PM

When Hawk and I got into this discussion we were MUCH younger.............Not to mention 2 wars, 911, and 2 presidents. Many of the cast of the movie have died since 200 when this started as well....................Jesus.....really depressing!

I still think we need T-shirts................


Spaw

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,India
Date: 26 Aug 12 - 09:08 AM

Amazing thread. All the mp3 links are dead now. Anybody got a full mp3 working link. (not a youtube video)

Cheers

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,India
Date: 26 Aug 12 - 09:42 AM

No worries, i just found the full version of mp3 after a hour of searching google & torrentz.


foul-owl-feat-boomer-travis.mp3

Cheers
R

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Guest, leaddog
Date: 15 Jan 14 - 12:40 AM

It's a new year for this thread, now going on 14 years.

So, The Little Willies, featuring Norah Jones has a second album out with Fowl Owl on it. It's very different, appropriately sultry and country. Catch it on youtube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUhX8-1Ea_Q

By the way, Norah Jones and Quincy Jones are not related, her father is Ravi Shankar.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,Brian
Date: 12 Jun 14 - 02:44 PM

I wrote a review of this song for RockPeaks back in 2009 ... don't think I ever shared the link.
I definitely mentioned this thread in it. :-)

We were talking about Quincy Jones in another forum today and it made me want to revisit this wonderful place.

14 years, baby!! :-D

http://www.rockpeaks.com/video/j/Jones-Quincy/In-The-Heat-Of-The-Night-1967/Foul-Owl-on-the-Prowl

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,chuck
Date: 17 Jul 18 - 09:50 PM

OK, so does anybody still have a link to the other "foul owl" video?
The one where the young guy walks into a Boston bar and is confronted by a trash-talking owl? The original link in this thread doesn't work anymore
Thanks

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,renmarq
Date: 23 Aug 22 - 02:06 PM

Might as well keep this going...

According to IMDB (under "trivia" for the movie "In the Heat of the Night"), Anthony James was, in fact, grooving to "Lil' Red Riding Hood" in that diner scene. When they couldn't secure the rights, "Fowl Owl" was created and substituted in the audio. I imagine that is why the song seems sooo similar. It had to be. With the film already in the can, they needed the counterman's movements to match up. I suppose they also wanted a similar "predatory" feel to the lyrics.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Foul Owl (from 'In the Heat of the Night'
From: GUEST,SissyBoyFloyd
Date: 01 Sep 22 - 07:48 PM

The Bee Gees did a cover version of the song right before they left Australia for England. They performed it dressed as owls on stage in one of their Australian farewell concerts before boarding a ship home, if I am not mistaken in 1966.