C.J. Chenier, a dynamic zydeco musician from Port Arthur, Texas, honors his father's legacy while infusing traditional zydeco with blues influences to create a captivating sound. As the leader of the Red Hot Louisiana Band, he continues to engage audiences worldwide with his masterful accordion skills and vibrant performances.
Clayton Joseph "C.J." Chenier, born on September 28, 1957, in Port Arthur, Texas, is a celebrated musician renowned for his contributions to the genre of zydeco music. As the son of the legendary "King of Zydeco," Clifton Chenier, C.J. has paved his own path in the music world while honoring his father's rich legacy.
C.J. Chenier's upbringing in the diverse musical environment of Port Arthur exposed him to a range of influences including funk, soul, jazz, and Motown sounds. His journey into music began with learning instruments such as the piano, tenor saxophone, and flute. By the early 1970s, as a teenager, he was already performing with black Top 40 bands in his hometown. Despite his father's prominence in the zydeco genre, C.J. was initially unfamiliar with it during his early years.
C.J. Chenier's formal introduction to zydeco began in 1978 when he first performed with his father's band, the Red Hot Louisiana Band, while studying music at Texas Southern University. It was during this period that he developed a deep appreciation for the zydeco style. In 1985, as Clifton Chenier's health declined, C.J. took a larger role in the band, learning to play the accordion and eventually succeeding his father as band leader after Clifton's passing in 1987.
C.J. Chenier's signature sound, often described as "zydeco blues," cleverly blends traditional zydeco with strong blues influences. His music is recognized for its energetic and danceable rhythms, with a band setup that typically includes drums, accordion, washboard, guitar, and saxophone.
Throughout his illustrious career, C.J. has released several acclaimed albums, such as:- "Hot Rod" (1990)- "Too Much Fun" (1995)- "The Big Squeeze" (1996)- "Step It Up!" (2001)- "The Desperate Kingdom of Love" (2006)- "Can't Sit Down" (2011)
C.J. Chenier's talent has been recognized by fellow musicians and the music industry. He was featured on Paul Simon's album "The Rhythm of the Saints" and performed during Simon's "Born At The Right Time" tour. His television appearances include shows like the Jon Stewart Show and CNN, and he has performed at notable events such as the South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Conference.
Among his numerous accolades, C.J. Chenier won the 1997 Living Blues' Critics' Poll Award and an AFIM Indie Award for best zydeco album for "The Big Squeeze." In January 2019, he was inducted into the Museum of the Gulf Coast's Music Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to music and his efforts in perpetuating his father's legacy.
C.J. Chenier continues to showcase his vibrant zydeco and blues-infused music to audiences worldwide, captivating them with his masterful accordion skills and soulful vocal performances.
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