Clifton Chenier was an influential American musician known as the "King of Zydeco." Born on June 25, 1925, in Opelousas, Louisiana, he was a pivotal figure in bringing zydeco music to wider audiences both in the United States and internationally.
Chenier's early life was steeped in the cultural traditions of Louisiana's Creole community. He was introduced to music by his father, who played the accordion, and his uncle, who made them. Chenier learned to play the accordion himself, initially performing at local house parties and dance halls. His early influences included Creole music, Cajun music, and Blues.
In the 1950s, Chenier moved to Port Arthur, Texas, where he formed the Clifton Chenier and the Red Hot Louisiana Band. His distinctive style combined elements of blues, rhythm and blues, and traditional Zydeco with a strong emphasis on the accordion, which became his signature instrument. His first recordings were made in 1954 for the Elko Records label, but it was his signing with Arhoolie Records in the 1960s that truly launched his career.
Chenier's music was characterized by:
Clifton Chenier received numerous honors during his lifetime: