Home of Blues and Zydeco in Louisiana 

The entire state is famous for its music, and deservedly so. Outside of New Orleans, rock 'n’ roll and R&B merged with traditional Cajun French music to become “swamp pop”, and with Creole la-la music to invent “zydeco”. Blues, bluegrass, gospel, jazz, Latin styles and many more eventually found a home in Louisiana as well. And today the native sounds of the state are as rich and varied as the people who make them. 

The history of blues in Louisiana, which includes the sub-genre of swamp blues that originated near the town of Crowley, boasts the names of Marcia Ball, Slim Harpo and Lighten’ Slim. The real deal can still be found at the doors of Teddy’s Juke Joint in Baker and Roque’s Blues Hall in Natchitoches. 

In 2007, the Cajun sound known as zydeco was given a Grammy award category by the Recording Academy. This national recognition of zydeco’s musical importance bolstered the talents of Tab Benoit and Terrance Semien. It also supported the efforts of younger groups such as the Red Stick Ramblers and Zydepunks.