Yodels, Poems, and a Whole Lot of Heart: Buckaroo Jake and Calico Carol's Journey to the Old West

Imagine, if you will, the faint echo of a yodel carried on a gentle breeze, perhaps the twang of a banjo, or the soulful cry of a harmonica. For a moment, you might just close your eyes and find yourself transported—yes, truly—to the dusty plains and rugged landscapes of the Old West. And in British Columbia, of all places, that’s exactly what Jake and Carol Ens, better known as Buckaroo Jake and Calico Carol, are doing.

This dynamic duo, rooted in the scenic North Shuswap area, isn’t merely performing; they are, for want of a better phrase, living archives of a bygone era. They bring the vibrant spirit of the range, the wisdom of the campfire, and the sheer joy of traditional cowboy culture straight to their audiences. Honestly, it’s quite something to witness.

Now, how did all this begin? Well, it wasn't some grand, pre-planned career move, not really. You could say it blossomed quite organically after a trip to a cowboy festival up in Kamloops back in 2017. Something clicked, you see. That’s when the notion took hold: why not share this rich, often overlooked, piece of heritage with the world, or at least, with folks closer to home?

And so, Buckaroo Jake stepped into his role with an almost effortless grace. He's the one with the guitar, the harmonica, and that truly authentic yodel—a sound that, I think, just about takes your breath away. Calico Carol, his partner in both life and performance, isn’t far behind; she strums the banjo with an infectious rhythm and weaves tales through her heartfelt poetry. In truth, their acts complement each other beautifully, like a well-worn saddle and a favorite steed.

Their performances, you’ll find, are a delightful blend of music, storytelling, and pure, unadulterated passion. From the intimate settings of senior homes to the bustling energy of community gatherings and festivals, they cast a spell. They dress the part too, naturally—traditional cowboy attire that isn’t just costume, but rather, an extension of who they are and the world they evoke. It’s about more than just songs, really; it’s about authenticity, about passing down the lore.

And that authenticity? It’s deeply ingrained, you understand. Before stepping into the limelight as entertainers, the Enses, for a good long while, worked the land, running a cattle ranch for decades. That firsthand experience—the sun on your back, the dust in your boots, the rhythm of rural life—informs every note, every stanza, every shared glance between them. They’ve lived a version of what they sing about, and you can absolutely feel it.

So, when you see Buckaroo Jake and Calico Carol, know that you’re not just watching a show. You’re tapping into a legacy. You’re hearing the echoes of hardworking hands and wandering hearts, a piece of B.C.'s unique connection to the wider lore of the Old West. And for once, it’s a connection that feels wonderfully, truly, alive.