From 2008 to 2011 Louisiana artists were given special attention at the GRAMMYs with their own Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album category. A dozen bands were nominated during that time, including Lost Bayou Ramblers for Live: Á La Blue Moon in 2008, Cedric Watson for his self-titled record in 2009 and Pine Leaf Boys a record four times.
Though the category merged with others to create the Best Regional Roots Music Album for the 2012 awards, zydeco artists have continued to make strong showings with nominations and wins (Terrance Simien won his second GRAMMY last year). Take a look at the zydeco bands that won the GRAMMY award during the category’s inclusion below.
2008 winner: Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience for Live! Worldwide
2009: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet for Live at the 2008 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival
2010: Buckwheat Zydeco for Lay Your Burden Down
2011: Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band for Zydeco Junkie