ZYDECO
Often people new to zydeco dance ask for advice on what are good disks to buy specifically for dancing. As is the case with all genres of music, recorded zydeco music can come in differing styles, rhythms, tempos, melodies, and fidelity, all which ultimately determine its dancability. It can be frustrating trying to buy zydeco music when you are not familiar with artists' names or if faced with several disks of a particular artist, determining which one is best. Below find my current personal favorite artists and disks that provide a decent share of, in my opinion, dancable zydeco selections. The music of artists not mentioned in the table should also be explored by the zydeco music lover. They include: Clifton Chenier, C.J. Chenier, John Delafose, Lynn August, Willis Prudhomme, Roy Carrier, Nathan Williams, Jude Taylor, Brian "Little Brian" Terry, Paul "J. Paul" Lawrence Grant, Stanley "Buckwheat Zydeco" Dural, Joe Walker, Lawrence "Black" Ardoin, Jo Jo Reed, Leo Thomas, Rockin Sidney, and Queen Ida, to only name a few.
Check out the book entitled "Kingdom of Zydeco" by
talented music writer Michael Tisserand. The book examines zydeco
music and those who have created it. Revealing interviews with
important zydeco musicians are scholarly presented....with heart.
The companion CD is now out. Has a great selection of artists
and songs, some very obscure. Careful thought went into the selections.
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| Step Rideau & the Zydeco Outlaws | Standing Room Only (SWD 2003)* Steppin' On (BEZ 2002) |
| Keith Frank | Movin On Up (Maison de Soul 1055-2) You'd Be Surprised (Maison de Soul 10632)* On A Mission (Maison de Soul 1069)* Live at Slim's Y-K-K (Shanachie 9018)* [remarkably good for a live recording; many good dance songs and new material-BP] |
| J. Paul Jr. and the Zydeco Newbreeds | Taking Over (Maison de Soul 1066)* Another Level (WWM-26192 5)* WOW!!!!! Finally someone has put out something NEW. Strong R&B, Gospel, and RAP Zydeco. Check out the modern gospel zydeco "Soon and Very Soon" and do it soon and very soon.Over 9 highly danceable tunes. |
| Chris Ardoin & Double Clutchin' | Gon' Be Jus' fine (Rounder 2127)* - [Best
one- BP] Lick It Up (Maison de Soul 1058) Turn the Page (Rounder 11661-2157-2)* |
| Zydeco Force | Shaggy Dog Two-Step (Maison de Soul 1045-2)* [in my opinion this is the zydeco "Rosetta Stone," the zydeco" White Album"-BP] |
| Beau Jocque & the Zydeco High Rollers | Pick Up on This (Rounder 2129)* Check it out, Lock it in, Crank it up! (Rounder11661-2158-2))* Rest in Peace, Beau. |
| Geno Delafose | That's What I'm Talkin About! (Rounder 2141)* |
| Boozoo Chavis | Boozoo Chavis (Elektra Nonsuch American
Explorer 961146-2) Hey Do Right (Antones 74707) Who Stole My Monkey?* (Rounder 11661-2156-2) [the first zydeco disc requiring a parental advisory label for his lewd versions of Uncle Bud and Deacon Jones] |
| Greg Chambers & Creole Junction | Don't Need A Ticket To Ride (Maison de Soul 10765) |
| Buckwheat Zydeco | Trouble (MESA 92763-2)* [at least 3 great dance songs-BP] |
| Rosie Ledet | Zydeco Sensation (Maison de Soul 1064)* I'm a Woman (MDS 1071)* |
* CDs used during my lessons
Having trouble finding these titles in your local music shop? The LOUISIANA MUSIC FACTORY, 210 Decatur Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 (Barry: 504 586-1094) will surely have it!
I know, I know, this is sorely outdated. I will update soon, but it doesn't mean these discs have lost their appeal. They are still great. Of course, Curley Taylor and Zydeco Trouble needs to be added to the list. Check 'em out. BP May 23 2008.
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