Jake explains why you need to know that there are always exceptions to the rule. Jake Riley performs "A Rope 'n' Tail" during the "Bellyaches + Heartbreaks" show at the 40th National Cowboy Poetry Gathering.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Jake Riley
Riverdale, NE
Jake Riley grew up, for the most part, in the upper Arkansas Valley of the Colorado mountains. He began roping and rodeoing as a kid, which led to helping out at local ranches, which spawned his love for cowboy culture. Jake has always enjoyed rhyming, publishing some of his first cowboy poetry for a high school project. Much of Jake’s work involves firsthand ranch and rodeo experiences told from his perspective on the contemporary fringe. He recites the classics as well and considers himself extremely blessed to take part in carrying the tradition forward. Jake now calls the plains of Nebraska home, living there along with his wife Carley and a teeming horde of young'uns with an affection for western ways.

"A Rope 'n' Tail"

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Filmed in front of a live audience at the Elko Convention Center’s Laurena Moren Theater on Feb. 1, 2025.

Made possible by Blach Distributing Co. and by the multitude of staff, artists, volunteers, and community members working behind the scenes to make this show happen.

Brought to you by the Western Folklife Center, using story and cultural expression to connect the American West to the world.
www.westernfolklife.org

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