Louisiana's beautiful gumbo of musical styles come together in Zydeco music. Here are the ten essential Zydeco recordings to start your collection.
1. Bogalusa Boogie - Clifton Chenier
Clifton Chenier brought Zydeco music to the world. Known as the ultimate "King" of Zydeco, Chenier merged the rural Lousiana acoustic sounds with modern electric instruments. This record is raw by today's standards, but captures the essence of today's grooves.
2. Gonna Take You Downtown - Beau Jocque
Beau Jocque (Andrus Espre) passed away a couple years ago but left a Zydeco legend that will be hard to top. His modern rockin' style dug Zydeco to new groove depths. I dare you not to dance!3. Louisiana Music - Rockin' Dopsie
After Clifton Chenier passed, Alton Rubin, aka Rockin' Dopsie (pronounced Doopsie), ascended to Zydeco's throne. His family band, known as the Zydeco Twisters, continues to this day.4. Boozoo, That's Who! - Boozoo Chavis
Boozoo Chavis had his turn as the "King of Zydeco". Credited with being the first to merge modern R&B with traditional cajun sounds, his pioneer recordings lead the way to current Zydeco dance hall favorites.5. Buckwheat Zydeco Story: A 20 Year Party
Buckwheat Zydeco (Stanley Durel) has established himself as the most popular Zydeco artist on the scene today. His infectious grooves and stellar accordion work combine for a guaranteed good time. This recording highlights his boogie-filled career.6. Big Squeeze - C.J. Chenier
C.J. Chenier is the son of the late Clifton Chenier, but his place in Zydeco royalty is insured by his stompin' groove. With members of his father's band, The Red Hot Louisiana Band, C.J. continues the Chenier legacy.7. Sweet Brown Sugar - Rosie Ledet
Rosie Ledet hit the Zydeco scene like a hurricane in the 1990's. Known as the "Zydeco Sweetheart", her music is as enchanting as her beauty. One of the ultimate Zydeco groove artists.8. Let's Go - Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas
Nathan Williams and his Zydeco Cha Chas are in the new breed of Zydeco groovesters. They seem especially adept at capturing the fun of the music. Favorites at festivals all over the country.9. Zydeco On The Bayou - Terrance Simien & The Mallet Playboys
Terrance Simien has made a Zydeco name for himself as an innovator of the music. As a Zydeco historian, he has taken the traditional and expanded the vision of Zydeco more than any other artist.10. I'm So Glad - Step Rideau & The Zydeco Outlaws
Step Rideau & The Zydeco Outlaws are the new kids on the block. Their gutty dance hall sound is bringing Zydeco back to it's roots.