Louisiana is one of the only states in the U.S. that can boast indigenous, popular music genres like jazz, Cajun, and zydeco. And in addition to these, Louisiana is home to notable contributions to American blues, country, and rock.
New Orleans has a special relationship with jazz and has been home to legends like Louis Armstrong. Today, a new generation of jazz musicians are honoring the tradition and adding their own unique sounds along the way including artists such as Trombone Shorty, Irvin Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins, Dirty Dozen, and Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band.
Outside of jazz, Cajun and zydeco music are perhaps more associated with Louisiana than any other musical genre.
Cajun music continues the musical and dancing traditions originally brought to Louisiana by The Acadians when they were exiled from Nova Scotia in the 1700s. The folk music incorporates the accordion, triangle and fiddle and can be heard in dance halls throughout southwestern Louisiana.
Zydeco, originally a blend of Louisiana French accordion music and Afro-Caribbean beats, almost always includes a washboard and an accordion and, like the blues, offered a way for the rural poor to escape hardships of life through music and dance. The music is a staple at local festivals like the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Today, the genre has evolved further with influences from soul, rap, and reggae.
The state has dozens of famous musicians and singers, spanning many decades. Here are a few names that come quickly to mind ...
Kermit Ruffins at Tipitina's in New Orleans |
Musical interlude in front of St. Louis Cathedral in the New Orleans French Quarter (Photograph courtesy of LouisianaTravel.com) |
Cajun and Zydeco Music in Louisiana
Video from Louisiana Travel
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