To yodel means to sing in a special way that rapidly switches back and forth between your normal voice and a high, light sound called falsetto. The result is a distinctive “oh-dee-lay-dee-hoo” sound that echoes beautifully across mountains and valleys.

Yodeling developed in the Swiss Alps, where shepherds used it to communicate across long distances and call their cattle. The technique works perfectly in mountains because the quick changes in pitch carry farther than regular shouting, and the sound bounces off mountain walls. You can still hear traditional yodeling in Switzerland, Austria, and parts of Germany.

Yodeling also became part of American country and western music. Singers like Jimmie Rodgers brought yodeling into country songs in the 1920s, and you can still hear it in cowboy songs today. Some people yodel just for fun, while others practice it seriously as a musical skill.

When someone yodels well, it sounds joyful and impressive. When someone's just learning, it can sound a bit wobbly and funny. Either way, yodeling takes practice: you have to train your voice to jump quickly between different pitches without your voice cracking or squeaking.