Hilarious Cowboy Poetry With Waddie Mitchell and Batxer Black | Carson Tonight Show

Original Airdate: 01/08/1987
#johnnycarson #thetonightshow

[@MrJRHblues]

He had a delivery like Robbin Williams. Love it!

[@alan30189]

I thought the same thing!

[@robertocucalon4676]

Yeah, even some of the facial expressions were almost if Robin Williams was disguised.

[@sharksport01]

10x better than robin williams.

[@maryjenkins6786]

Love both of them

[@RAEckart22]

All the mannerisms. Not once or twice, but over & over. Like they were twin brothers.

[@34blunn]

My whole childhood was spent falling asleep to Johnny's voice from the TV in my parents' bedroom. Dad laughing hysterically, mom telling him to shush! Comforting.

[@projectbumblejeep4190]

The second cowboy very much reminded (in looks and in style) of the late great Robin Williams.

[@jfree336]

I was thinking the same

[@michaellinner7772]

The young people don't always understand why we like this era of late-night TV so much. It's because Johnny was the most gracious host who really was interested in each of his guests. He wasn't just a talkshow host but, also a friend to all his viewers and guests alike. We were extremely fortunate to have grown up with his show and in that golden age of TV. There's a reason why instead of the "Tonight Show" most people referred to it as the "Carson Show".

[@biketech60]

His staff was very selective . You had to be ready and very good to be invited on his show .

[@RAEckart22]

The pace of movies & TV shows was way different. Johnny didn't talk over people like they do today. He got more out of them his way.

[@margaretbedwell3211]

So true....I loved the Johnny Carson show and truly enjoy these reruns. The poet cowboys were fantastic. Thanks for bringing this particular show up for watching, these few minutes of showtime were worth more than an evenings worth today.

[@47Grits]

I agree 100%

[@mr.blackhawk142]

TV is mind CONtrol, and is FAKE.

[@antonioperezgarcia264]

... sadly there is not more comedy like this.... thanks God for the reruns...

[@danw6014]

Nobody is allowed to be funny less they offend someone.

[@kurtjohnson6969]

@@danw6014 Ain't that the truth nowadays? 👍👆🙏

[@breathless8075]

And Late Night has never been the same. I liked Jay Leno, but Classic Carson is unbeatable in my book.

[@pronemanoldbutyoung5548]

Ah, finally a Jay Leno fan. Being a Letterman fan myself, I'm curious, if you'd be so kind and tell a little bit what made you like Leno? I'm not trying to be sarcastic or anything, I'm genuinely curious 🙂

[@TRYtoHELPyou]

Yeah, Colbert knows it. Did a not to carnac on his first show since moving to late night (not the Colbert report). Johnny Carson was one giant.

[@billyrossi4661]

I will second that.

[@jameswildes4080]

Yelp!

[@terriladeau9585]

I agree with you about Carson being unbeatable

[@beehappee2883]

Life & late night will never be like this again! Thank you Mr Carson for all the great entertainment!💕

[@miketaylor9231]

Too bad modern late night TV is slime. That's one of the reasons my TV now resides in a landfill.

[@hardychip3736]

No question Johnny Carson is the King of Late Night!

[@beckycarlton6077]

@@miketaylor9231 ž zeta

[@UberLummox]

@@miketaylor9231 ok trumper

[@kurtjohnson6969]

@@miketaylor9231 Likewise, Mike. Johnny Carson was great entertainment. To even pretend that Kimmel or whoever is even in the ballpark is... well, I don't even own a TV, thank God. Trash.

[@pyrocoyote1922]

I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Black at the national FFA convention in Indiana back in 2009. While walking my dad stopped and it was the only time in my life that I have seen my father look star struck . He pointed and said it’s Baxter black we have to get his book . So my dad rushed over to his booth like a kid going to see Santa Claus. My dad and I talked with him a bit we told him how much we enjoyed his poetry on RFD TV. And he was the kindest most humble person I have ever met. I remember my dad asking him about at what point he knew he was good at writing poetry. And Baxter replied the he gave his mother his freshly written poetry and she would read it wile using the restroom. And she told him the poetry was just the right length. Lol He was kind enough to sign our book but he surprised us by turning the book upside down signing it and when we look at the signature it was perfectly written right side up. That man was full of surprises.

[@foxtrotjulietbravo5536]

That'd be Dr. Black! My mom and dad heard Baxter at a National Cattlemen's Association meeting one year with Waddie Mitchell. Mom would read Baxter's poems to us and my dad would just howl. His daughter's IQ of a Bartlett Pear was a particular fav as dad had four daughters and considered himself an expert in the matter. The other was Horse People. So true!

[@hkc1960]

So delightful and endearing.

[@willhenderson2455]

I met him as well at a FFA convention, back in the late 90s. He signed an autograph for me and my dog Bubba. Their kind will surely be missed.

[@kevinwells4986]

That's a beautiful tribute. He passed away so recently. I just discovered him tonight. I'm fairly old myself. I'm glad I found him.

[@lo.sweets]

Fantastic thank you 😊😊😊

[@walkerhawes2200]

Carson always had such a great variety of guests on his show. In one show you might see a model, a comedian, and even a cowboy poet. I’m glad I got to watch Carson before he retired. Good times.

[@davidvanbrunt4233]

Went to the Tonight Show in 1980, I was 14...seen Donna Summer & George Carlin, I'll never forget.

[@julietimmons9610]

Back when night time talk shows were entertaining, not just bashing political parties, I loved Johnny especially tho, he was ALWAYS a gentleman & down to earth!

[@TwoFarmBoys]

Loved this! Rest in peace Baxter Black.

[@Gratefulman1965]

“And dark clouds descended down upon the valley, caused by a depression that sealed em’ down tight, Brought forth for another cowboy had passed from our plane to begin a new kinda ride, Planet earth should feel less worth, Knowing Cowboy Baxter Black passed away tonight”…….R.I.P. Wordsmith, Doctor,visionary,Damn Good man….1/10/1945 - 6/10/2022.

[@kade82]

I wasn't aware that Baxter Black.had passed away. I never had the opportunity to meet him in person, but the newspaper I worked for ran his column and I spoke with him by phone a couple times. A genuinely nice man as well as humorous.

[@BonnieBlue2A]

@@Gratefulman1965 😢. Did not know he had passed.

[@brettelmerelmer3061]

Most cowboys I've been around have a way with words that's really unique. Cowboy poets got the best way with words of anybody I know. RIP, Baxter. Your perspective was always worth listening to, and delivered with the most amazing sense of humor.

[@diannepuckett4058]

Such mastery that is cast by these two cowboys Baxter and Waddy.. and this world forever honor them for in this poetry and prose they have sealed each own epitaph and eulogy.. rip Baxter

[@b1orogue]

I had no idea Baxter went back that far. I was scrolling youtube and saw Baxter Black on Carson and I thought, "What!? THE Baxter Black?" I looked forward to hearing his bit on the radio every Monday on the way to work. I was sad to hear he had passed. RIP indeed.

[@stevenmark8156]

@@b1orogue yeah, I had never heard him speak, but a fellow auto mechanic that I worked with, and who grew up on a farm, used to bring in the Grass and Grain paper and Baxter Black always had an editorial in them. They always had me chuckling! He was a cleverly funny man!

[@candyh9876]

This was hilarious such beautiful heartwarming poetry 😁😂👍That kind of ENTERTAINMENT no longer exhists , Good bye to the greatest😪 !!!!

[@stefandieter4044]

Hello candy how are you doing over there?

[@suemcknight9051]

@ Candy H…. The cowboy poets still gather in Elko, Nevada each year and remain such a treat to see. Sadly, Baxter Black just passed away very recently. Waddle Mitchell is still with us & performing, I believe. They all are such a wonderful part of the American Cowboy history of our country. Like you, I agree that we are no longer seeing that kind of entertainment…(& I will always miss Johnny Carson😢).

[@zekragash4294]

@@suemcknight9051 used to go to Elko for the gathering. Met both of these friendly gentlemen and saw them multiple times in multiple years. Have CDs that I drag out from time to time. Miss going there. Didn't know that Baxter had passed, but then I don't get out much.

[@Mrdoctile]

RIP Baxter Black...June 10, 2022... (Gary McMahan)

[@robertocucalon4676]

It's so much fun to see Johnny Carson being amused with this fine gentlemen.

[@undersea800]

His being amused by guests was the best part. He was never threatened and never felt a need to compete. He was perfectly content to let a guest steal the show. In fact, he almost seemed to want that very thing. His true gift was the ability to wind someone up, get out of their way and let them go. He seemed capable of setting anyone up for success, and if his audience was having a good time, so was he, no matter the cause.

[@darrellbender184]

@@undersea800 by h8 y6 k8 ok

[@darrellbender184]

Nkn

[@davidgregg2778]

I got to meet Baxter that Saturday night in Sioux Center at the county cattleman's annual banquet . He autographed his book for me . Love his humor . RIP Baxter .

[@ronlawrence342]

You can see Carson always appreciated talent and sharp wit . It’s hilarious to see the cowboy crack him up . It’s hard to watch these reruns - even though I live them - it just brings back memories of happier , freer , more sensible and wholesome times.

[@pattiday431]

It's hard to not feel sentimental. They were good days and even on the bad ones I had youth in my favor.

[@ronlawrence342]

@@pattiday431 Yes! The the whole American vibe was sweeter, kinder, healthier , more connected . Civility , honestly , politeness , love , common sense is being replaced with deceit , self absorption , malice , violence , chaos , perversion , insanity etc. We need to return to God , it’s the only hope we have now .

[@alanlutz8373]

I love seeing this. I assume it's being shown because Baxter Black died last week. I'm gonna miss him. Thanks for the video.

[@JohnyReb43]

My wife said, and rightly, that nothing has ever replaced The Johnny Carson Show.

[@asphaltgypsy4390]

"Incredibly talented cowboys that 'do (did) their craft proud', and have caused many a 'city slicker' to plumb laugh out loud." RIP Baxter Black. You will be sorely missed.

[@foxtrotjulietbravo5536]

Amen!

[@joemac3118]

Dadgum, I sure do miss ol johnny. That's back when late night was actually funny and nobody's feelings got hurt!👍😂👍

[@jillnelson8746]

Happy to see Carson clips!

[@stefandieter4044]

Hello Jill how's it going with you over there?

[@aramdosdourian7143]

Loved the Johnny Carson show but I didn't care for the cowboy poets or I just didn't get it. Not my kinda funny. Aram J Dosdourian

[@rockinredneck57]

Johnny, having been a comedy writer in the past really enjoyed these. He fully understood the timing and delivery and the effort it takes to put it all together. Plus Baxter was a hoot! He was a master storyteller for sure.

[@jorgefernandez-mv8hu]

Johnny was the best and he always brought out talent from all over. This is a great story telling piece. He was the best.

[@RetiredCAGrandma]

I actually remember watching this when it aired. That started my interest in Cowboy Poetry. I've thought of this numerous times while eating a salad. I was saddened to read that Baxter Black rode into the sunset a little over a month ago. Thank you Baxter for the laughter and the poetry.

[@kevinwells4986]

Yeah, I found this by accident, didn't know him, and I'm old myself with issues. So it had a little bit deeper meaning because I wish I would have been that funny. This was so nice to watch.

[@Lavolanges]

I also discovered cowboy poetry with these guys on Carson's show. Years later had the opportunity to attend a cowboy poetry gathering in Alberta a couple of times. Would love to attend the one in Nevada.

[@robertbeck7792]

I heard Baxter recently passed. He was an icon in the Western Culture. Not only did he provide great humor but thoughtful perspective for not only the west but people close to the land from all over the US. I would encourage you to find other Baxter Black snippets on youtube. You will not be disappointed.

[@dianehunsberger2271]

That's sad...going through collection of Horse, Cowboy, and all things Western magazines ...Baxter Black's articles are worth keeping, though I wasn't happy when he said he was pro horse-slaughter. After all he was a DVM.

[@cottonclarksa]

OUCH!... so sad to hear the news of Baxter Black passing away. Truly, a gifted man of equal parts intellect, humor, and grace. One of kind, really. His bit on Johnny Carson's show is one for the ages. The humor AND the delivery are second to none. RIP, Baxter. Vaya con Dios.

[@sandralarson-gonzales3797]

@@dianehunsberger2271 pro horse slaughter? That’s not a Cowboy

[@irvinslagter8298]

Unfortunately, Baxter Black left us last week. RIP Baxter, you were a gem!!!

[@Justafeller]

😔

[@blackandgold676]

Always a joy to see Johnny really having a good time.

[@twobarrells]

Yes clever, witty, funny no filth, makes a great change.

[@mgmassey174]

I miss hearing Baxter Black occasionally on NPR Cowboy poets will not be forgotten by this old soul.

[@Jain1906]

Rest in peace, Dr. Black.

[@karenmicheleosburn9556]

Never be another one like Baxter! RIP Cowboy! You are missed greatly!!

[@elizabethhestevold1340]

Always Johnny, makes you laugh! As, his select audiences. 🤠 Cowboy poetry. Amazing.😅😂🌅🙏🇺🇸🇩🇰

[@stefandieter4044]

Hello Elizabeth how's it going with you over there?

[@TheReal10bears]

Rest in Peace Baxter Black. Will miss the weekly monday poem

[@pamelahomeyer748]

My dad came from Germany when he was 11 years old and he wound up riding fence in the panhandle of Texas and he became quite good at playing the harmonica and being a German cowboy. He knew a lot of great stories and he would have loved this show

[@jamesroland5186]

Hello Pamela👋

[@kevinwells4986]

Good for you. What a life he must have had. I wish I could have done it, even though I started out that way a little bit. Regardless, you have to love what you do - if you are lucky.

[@J.n.A.1993]

Rest in Peace Baxter Black.

[@ralphacosta4726]

I had the pleasure of hearing Mr. Black speak in Kansas City, MO, many years ago. I was very impressed with his poetry and his humility, so when YT popped this up i was happy to watch him again.

[@formercanadiancitizen4756]

Oh man, that was precious, two of the cleverest and most hilarious poets I ever did see

[@landenschooler6726]

Trent Loos is up there also!

[@chrisgray2320]

I love both of these gentlemen. Thank you so much for posting this!

[@fredchalupa]

I had the privilege of meeting Waddie Mitchell the day after Baxter Black's passing last month. He recited some poetry and told some stories. It was a great experience.

[@kevinwells4986]

Lucky you!

[@sooz9433]

I remember seeing Baxter on The Tonight show several times. I always adored how his whole being delivered every word of every poem. So sorry to hear he sent his saddle home. 😔

[@kevinwells4986]

I noticed that too... even sound effects during his poem. Someone said he was like Robin Williams, and I don't know about that... but he was definitely entertaining and so much so that there may be a comparison. All I know is I'm glad I found this video.

[@sooz9433]

@@kevinwells4986 I was too. Some of these videos give me a lot of comfort. Maybe it's because life was different then.😊

[@XanBos]

I’ve always enjoyed cowboy poetry…but the vegetable saga was hilarious! I could listen to poetry like that end time!

[@poesypoet]

I want to start a movement Well it's nothing new you see I want to take and put being human Back into to humanity To the casual observer we are just along for the ride things appear beyond our control No matter what we may have tried But to others there is a consensus That our thoughts control it all That if enough of us insist on it No order is to tall Peace upon our planet Now that may sound to grand I know that we can do this But we have to make a stand We can't control our future With a missile or a gun The question you must answer Is inside of you my son I'm not talking protests Don't run and get your gun Signs will never do a thing Inner reflection is how it's done Transcendental Meditation To quite our troubled mind So all of us could connect Inner strength we all would find No mantra's or chant's to use Just quite time alone Twenty minutes twice a day my friend And your skills you'll start to hone And if we all participate Our world will listen in And wars will cease there will be peace Humans being humane once again Don't let fear or doubt stop you To do this right here right now Start today to yourself just say Just do it don't ask how And as each and everyone Quiet's their blazing mind Fires of inspiration We will surely find and as we share together Our collective consciousness A better place on earth will birth Without negative consequence So I've asked the ether To send this message loud and clear To each and everyone of you Even those who cannot hear The time for change approaches It approaches really fast Forgive and but don't forget the things That have controlled you in your past Like your former lover Or your overbearing dad or your unloving mother or the abuse you once have had I know this won't be easy But it's something we must do The poison cursing through your veins Will eventually just kill you And your former Lover and your overbearing dad And your unloving mother I doubt that they'll be sad They won't even wonder What part of this they played They continue on in life While your memory it will fade So before your time is over And you cross the great divide I employ you take the reins of life Don't go along just for the ride For you are the master Of your destiny Concentrate on the things you want The things that set you free And before you know it Profound as this may sound Your life will never be the same When inner peace is what you've found

[@cwcobo]

The variety of people that you could come to know from watching Johnny Carson was fabulous. Truly the GOLDEN ERA of late-night TV.

[@youngolf1]

8 minutes of JC,,,,,,is way better than a nightly anything today

[@kasey006]

Waddie Mitchell is amazing. He's better read than here in person, but love him none the less.

[@vintagevinylvets1187]

Pure gold, truly. We had the pleasure of meeting these men at a function at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum several years ago. They were true gentleman and very gracious.🙏🏻

[@charlesarthurhultz8615]

This has to be one of the best acts Mr. Carson ever experienced. Three times, minimum. Both poems were priceless. Absolute gems. Talent will out, and it did in this case. Thank you for sharing this one; it's precious.

[@torytaylor693]

Johnny, Ed, and musical partners tucked a great many of us in bed and sent us to Dreamland better than anything since. R. I . P.

[@CrossTimbersSon]

Rest In Peace Dr. Black It would be great if the episode with Waddie Mitchell and Nyle Henderson could be uploaded. It was aired before this one. Thanks for uploading this one!

[@patsfaith]

One of a kind! Johnny Carson could never be duplicated!

[@davidw9694]

Baxter had some good stories about his dog...a great storyteller.

[@ianjay5301]

In the last weeks of the show, Johnny had cowboy poets back who performed the closing. I can't remember the poem - it had to do with a cowboy who was wearing a sweater which was producing a lot of static electricity. What I do remember is that it was so funny, that everyone was laughing uncontrollably, including Johnny, who wasn't even able to say goodnight. I hope the last weeks of the show are released someday.

[@markmarsh27]

Those Were The Days! When you had to have talent to be a performer. That was a DELIGHT!!

[@logan_e]

Most people born after 1988 even know Johnny Carson existed but he was there every weeknight for most of my life, I remember how it felt when he retired, an era was over & nobody wanted it to end!

[@waynemack6934]

CARSON JONNY WAS KING OF THE TONIGHT SHOW!!

[@sboy1955]

Baxter Black… the Robin Williams of Cowboy Poetry 😁

[@brenredhead3482]

I absolutely love these stories. After moving to Texas I met many people with very long names. Example: Billy Bob Jim Joe Jack, and a bushels of Bubba's. So these stories are similar to what I was initiated with when I moved to Texas.

[@tme9384]

About 150 years ago (not really, just seems like 3 or 4 lifetimes ago to me), I wrote a letter to Johnny Carson & he read it on air: Dear Johnny, My family & I plan our late nights around your show (except when there's a guest host). We love you! Best wishes for your continued success! (signed) P.S. Please don't read this on your show; I don't want to waste my 15 seconds of fame as a groupie or a footnote. Thank you. He had 'that look' after, & the audience roared.

[@griffinreitz7041]

Rest in peace, old man. You were something else !!

[@dundonrl]

Two of my favorite Cowboy poets!

[@cierakitty]

The one about him getting his veggies out of the garden and making a salad...I loved it ! !

[@kathleenfogarty5375]

The cowboy with the vegetable poetry reminded me so much of Robin Williams. His eyes and his body movements. So funny.

[@garyb4929]

Always loved some Baxter Black. 2 terrific cowboy story tellers there.

[@vljenewein]

R.I.P. Baxter Black. Died June 2022. I've seen him in person and visited with him. Really down to earth guy AND a Veterinarian as well.

[@j.p.montpellier3834]

Funny is always funny irrespective of the time because at the root it is real cleaver and very relatable. Bravo ! 😁🥂🇨🇦

[@brucedryden7207]

That last fella conjures up some Robin Williams, Bravo.

[@cdayperry2701]

Wonderful that Johnny had these men as guests!

[@jacquelinewhite5529]

My husband and I attended Cowboy Poetry in Elko, Nevada, 12 years in a row, starting with the second year. We would spend a week there taking in all the shows we could. Saw Baxter & Waddie many times plus many others. Highly recommend seeing Cowboy Poetry all over the country if you can. We have them locally in Nevada throughout the year.

[@pecathat2010]

The cowboy poets are top notch. Waddy narrated a recording with legendary western singer/musician Don Edwards (Smokey in The Horse Whisperer) and the Fort Worth Symphony. His comment about the his participation is "The only culture I know is between my toes."

[@dorissnyder4974]

That was fabulous, laughed out loud. Thanks so much for sharing this segment of Johnny Carson.

[@jamesspiker6024]

One of the best shows that was ever on tv,we could sure use it today!

[@susanclark6987]

They were such a pleasure to watch..and Johnny truely loved them also.. No.. i dont think we'll see the likes of talented cowboys like these again...

[@steveburnette6820]

The king of late-night,I wouldn't waist time watching late-night TV today.

[@davidkreider942]

An excellent rendition of cowboy poetry!! Thanks for posting!!

[@pattiday431]

Johnny Carson a class act.

[@elizabethwightman4700]

Excellent Handsome Cowboy 🤠

[@kennethneece4838]

I always like Johnny Carson and all of his guests! Johnny Carson was like no other!

[@stevenowell5882]

Excellent, Wish we had more of this today

[@michaelwarren2391]

Baxter Black will live on in his poems and stories. Jan 10, 1945 to June 10, 2022.

[@jolenewitzel7919]

I have books from both these wonderful men.❤❤❤❤❤

[@harrylazard805]

A great clip I never seen before. Another one of Johny's gems....

[@dianacallen6627]

Is is Batxer or Baxter? Will check it out. Thoroughly enjoyed, the ways now and then should be Gentlemen, good living, being decent, and creative not worrying about Hollywood 😡 criticism, or public for that matter. Love it!!!!!!

[@stefandieter4044]

Hello Diana how's it going with you over there?

[@karenleemallonee684]

Love me some Carson & Cowboy's! 🌼

[@james1795]

Lame.

[@stefandieter4044]

Hello karenlee how are you doing over there?

[@brucechristianson2274]

@@james1795 Yes, you are lame.

[@james1795]

@@brucechristianson2274. Lame.

[@brucechristianson2274]

@@james1795 Lame af

[@joannescholl7216]

Just good clean funny humor...love it!

[@TheEzzieboy]

Johnny always had great guests, but the best thing about The Tonight Show was Johnny himself, and how he interacted with the guests. Genius.

[@erichinkle5299]

Those poems were great. Especially that last one

[@eddieredding6045]

Good clean entertainment! You can always count on a cowboy!

[@SIim5hady]

This really made me laugh 😂 ahhhh the good ol’ days!!!!

[@emenstravels7023]

I lived in Elko for 21 years and attended the gathering each year. Both of these men are awesome and genuine! Ended up delivering a bunch of stuff to Waddie’s house and have never met a nicer man.

[@jimwilson1889]

Absolutely hilarious! I loved it. Cowboy poetry.

[@mitchbatten8281]

The second cowboy, Baxter Black, sure reminded me of Robin Williams by his expressions.

[@knightforlorn6731]

yeah! that was awesome! my grandparents used to watch this show and now I am a huge fan too!

[@ronaldpriest9301]

I love it. I laughed really hard at the vegetarian cowboy poem!

[@CharlesM-dp4xe]

Boy, that's really funny. How often do we really get to laugh at things that are genuinely funny like this, I sure do miss that show.

[@jamesroland5186]

Hello Charles👋

[@minnesocold]

This hilarious Commentary, was right at our door. But we're all in a hurry, we hear it no more.

[@jammin6816]

That was the best poem I’ve ever heard

[@daleroth236]

From one of farm papers I followed Baxter Black as he wrote a new poem each month. It was the first thing I turned to whenever the paper arrived. I miss those days and his humor.

[@dtailsandpics]

That was Amazing! I really miss those shows. Thanks for sharing!

[@MustangMike012]

@6:15, Johnny is having a good old time listening.

[@i-churchcafe9136]

LOL dude's like a cowboy Robin Williams!!!

[@petesmitt]

Baxter was an excellent comedic performer; he was actually a vet.