Patrice Melnick with the Opelousas Museum, stopped by News15 at Noon to share the details on a Clifton Chenier tribute happening this weekend.
Patrice Melnick with the Opelousas Museum, stopped by News15 at Noon to share the details on a Clifton Chenier tribute happening this weekend.
2023 Tribute to Clifton Chenier, Zydeco Capital Jam, St. Landry Parish Visitor Center, June 24
WHAT: Clifton Chenier Tribute: Zydeco Jam & Unveiling of Cut Out
WHEN: Saturday, June 22 1 to 3 p.m.
WHO: The general public is invited
WHERE: Opelousas Museum, 315 N Main St., Opelousas, LA 70570
On Saturday, June 22, St. Landry Parish Tourism, the Opelousas Museum and Opelousas Tourism pay tribute to Clifton Chenier through art and music. A larger-than-life cutout image of Clifton Chenier will be unveiled, designed by Opelousas Artist Theon Guillory. The June Zydeco Jam for Clifton Chenier will be led by CJ Chenier, known as the Crown Prince of Zydeco and son of Clifton Chenier. The free to attend tribute is part of the St. Landry Parish Zydeco Capital Jam, monthly jam sessions open to players of all skill levels. This year, the celebration takes place at the Opelousas Museum, 315 N Main St., Opelousas, LA 70570.
In 2000, the Louisiana State Legislature designated Chenier’s hometown of Opelousas as the Zydeco Music Capital of the World. In 2021, June 25 was declared Clifton Chenier Day in the state by the Louisiana state legislature. Chenier, the “King of Zydeco” who won a Grammy in 1983 and earned a Lifetime Achievement Award, was born June 25, 1925, near Opelousas. His hard-driving, ground-breaking style of zydeco music is celebrated worldwide.
Chenier’s son, C.J. joined his father’s band on his 21st birthday. When Clifton died in 1987 his son, C.J., adopted the Red Hot Louisiana Band and recorded his debut album for Arhoolie Records. C.J. Chenier has won many awards for his music including a Grammy nomination.
Artist Theon Guillory’s designs were highlighted in Opelousas Main Street’s Fiddle Mania public art exhibit in 2012. For two years he was named the winner of The Daily Advertiser’s Mardi Gras Cover and was later selected as the poster artist for Games of Acadiana.
Sponsored by St. Landry Parish Tourism, this event takes place at the Opelousas Museum, 315 N Main St., Opelousas, LA 70570.
