Albums

Creole Zydeco Farmers

“Traditional Zydeco Keepers & Louisiana Dancehall Veterans”

Quick Intro

Creole Zydeco Farmers—formed in Lafayette, Louisiana in the early 1990s—are known as torchbearers of traditional Creole zydeco, blending accordion, scrubboard, and blues-infused vocals into a sound that honors Louisiana’s rural roots. Their album On the Road released on Maison de Soul Records remains a staple of the genre.

In-Depth Profile

Creole Zydeco Farmers emerged from the legacy of Fernest & the Thunders after Fernest Arceneaux’s retirement. Founding members Clarence “Jockey” Etienne (drums) and Chester Chevalier (guitar) recruited Walter Prejean Sr. and Morris Francis—both vocalists and accordionists—to form a new band rooted in Lafayette Parish’s Creole traditions.

Their lineup also included James Prejean (bass), with later contributions from Charles Goodman, Joseph “Black” Rossyion, and others. The group toured extensively across the U.S. and Europe, performing at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and opening for Beau Jocque, Buckwheat Zydeco, Wayne Toups, and Rockin’ Dopsie Jr.

Albums include Live in Louisiana (1994, CMA), Come to Party (1996, Lanor), Les Zydecos Sont Pas Salé (1998, Chrisly), On the Road (1999, Maison de Soul), Zydeco Y2K (2000, J&S), and My Big Foot Woman (2005, Sound of New Orleans). Their sound blends traditional two-steps with blues, funk, and R&B, often featuring original compositions by Morris Francis.

Signature Tracks

  • “Creole Farmers Stomp” — driving accordion-led dance tune that showcases the band’s rhythmic power

  • “Zydeco Rumba” — infectious groove blending Creole tradition with Latin-inspired syncopation

  • “Let’s Jump” — high-energy party anthem that remains a favorite at Louisiana dancehalls

Notable Accomplishments & Awards

  • New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival — annual performers on the zydeco stage

  • International tours — performed across Europe including France, Germany, Greece, and Belgium

  • Studio legacy — drummer Etienne recorded with Slim Harpo, Fats Domino, and Katie Webster for Excello Records