Zydeco, Vol. 1: The Early Years 1949-62

Zydeco is a “unique musical and social gumbo found mainly along the Gulf Coast where Creoles have blended rural Louisiana African American French Creole traditions with Cajun music, rhythm and blues, a shot of rock n’ roll and a bunch of other juicy ingredients!” – Chris Strachwitz (liner notes)

This collection of live music was recorded in the taverns and dance houses of rural Louisiana and Texas in the 1950s and ʼ60s. Presented without frills, the songs are played on button accordion and the rubboard, or washboard. The vocals are mostly sung in French. Zydeco classics “Jole Blonde” and “Zydeco Sout Pas Sale” are included in this collection. Liner notes include a history of zydeco and information about the performers.