| The history of Louisiana country music reflects the cultural complexity of the state itself. The home of two important radio stations (KWKH and WWL), a two-time governor who was first and foremost a country music star (Jimmie Davis), the most indelible ethnic subgenre of country music (Cajun music), the second most significant country music radio and stage show after the Grand Ole Opry (the Louisiana Hayride), the birthplace of swamp-pop music, a proving ground for rockabilly music, an important link in the development of western swing music, a key place in the careers of Hank Williams, Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, and the birthplace or home of such country music luminaries as Ted Daffan, Mickey Gilley, Doug Kershaw, Jerry Lee Lewis, Jimmie C. Newman, Webb Pierce, and Faron Young, Louisiana has essayed a colorful and notable role in the creative and commercial development of a major area of American culture. From Leadbelly to Fats Domino to Aaron Neville and Cleve Francis, Louisiana has also been a fertile source of mutual black and white musical exchange. From Jimmie Davis in the 1930s to Joe Stampley in the 1970s to today's fast-rising star, Sammy Kershaw, Louisiana country music has impressed the nation with its talent. Louisiana country music has always been a bold and exciting expression of both cultural conflict and the artistic attempt to resolve them. Its styles and sounds echo the very history of our age. |
