Today marks a vibrant tribute to the enduring legacy of Clifton Chenier, the undisputed King of Zydeco, on what would have been his 100th birthday. In a spirited nod to his profound influence, The Rolling Stones have released a dynamic new cover of Chenier’s signature tune, “Zydeco Sont Pas Salés.” Available now on digital platforms, a limited edition 7-inch vinyl is set to follow on June 27th, featuring both The Stones’ rendition and Chenier’s 1965 original. The track also features on the upcoming compilation A Tribute To The King Of Zydeco, featuring Lucinda Williams, Taj Mahal, Steve Earle, and more, out June 27th on Valcour Records.
Produced by acclaimed Louisiana musician CC Adcock and with the help of Steve Riley on accordion, The Stones’ take on the classic track is a joyous fusion. “Both Mick singing in impeccable Creole French and Keith and Ronnie completely carving up the traditional approach with those signature licks and their iconic ‘weaving’ style sounds easy and playful,” notes Adcock. The Stones themselves expressed their honour to be part of a tribute album alongside a stellar cast of artists, acknowledging Chenier’s pivotal role in popularising “the wonderful free spirited dance music of Zydeco.”
‘’The Stones are truly honoured to be on this tribute album amongst a stellar cast of artists and musicians. Clifton Chenier was one of the most influential musicians to come out of Louisiana. He turned so many people onto the wonderful free spirited dance music of Zydeco, including ourselves back in the day. Although the development of any music style can seldom be attributed to one artist, there is not a zydeco band who has not followed the template Chenier created.”
This release precedes “Clifton Chenier: King of Louisiana Blues and Zydeco,” a comprehensive box set due in November (more here). This collection will span four CDs or six LPs, boasting 67 rare and classic recordings, 19 unreleased performances, and a richly detailed 160-page book. Furthermore, all proceeds from the upcoming “A Tribute To The King Of Zydeco” compilation, featuring artists like Lucinda Williams and Taj Mahal, will fund the newly established Clifton Chenier Memorial Scholarship at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, ensuring Chenier’s musical spirit continues to inspire future generations.
All proceeds from A Tribute to the King of Zydeco will go directly toward funding this new scholarship. To learn more about the scholarship or to donate, please visit this link.