Clifton Chenier "The King of Zydeco"

King of Zydeco

Clifton Chenier is known as ‘The King Of Zydeco’ and ‘King Of  The South’, famous for his influential Accordion sound and creator of a mix between Cajun, Blues, Rhythm & Blues, Rock ‘n Roll into a Zydeco sandwich.

Blues Grammy

In 1983 Chenier won as first French speaking American a Grammy award.  He featured in the 1973 documentary film Hot Pepper bij director Les Blank about  Zydeco, New Orleans and Clifton Chenier himself.   

Start in the Fifties

The career of Clifton started in 1954 when he released  his first album  Clifton’s Blues. His cousin, Lightning Hopkins wife introduced Chris Strachwitz, owner of the roots label Arhoolie, to Cheniers early Recordings. Strachwitz quickly Signed Chenier to his label. It was an important moment for the career of the future King of the South.

Frenchin'the Boogie

My most favourite album of Clifton Chenier is ‘Frenchin’ the Boogie’ released in 1976 on Bluestar records. It contains covers of Ray Charles ( I Got A Woman), Muddy Waters ( I Just Want To Make Love To You). It is a swinging album with a perfect mix of Zydeco, Rock n Roll and Blues. A typical New Orleans album.

Lyrics I'm A Hog For You

I'm a hog for you, baby
And I'm rootin' all around your door
I'm a hog for you woman
And I'm rootin' all around your door
I'mma keep on rootin' on
Until you wanna love me some more


I'm a hog for you, babe
And I'm rootin' all around your door
I'm a hog for you
I'mma root all around your door
I'mma keep on rootin' on
Until you wanna love me some more
You can put a yoke, around my neck

Believe me baby, 
I'mma do just like a snake'
Cause I'm a hog for you
I say I'm a hog for you, baby
I'mma keep on rootin' on
Until you wanna love me some more


Moi cochon pour toi, laisse-moi te dire
Moi j'vas faire, babe, j'vas faire comme un serpent
Moi cochon pour toi
Moi fouiller tout partout autour de l'escalier
Moi fouiller, fouiller, fouillerEt faire dit, tu veux d'autre

Moi cochon pour toi
Hey, moi cochon pour toi
Et j'va fouiller, fouiller, fouillerTout partout autour de l'escalier
Crois-moi, j'vas faire comme un serpent
J'sus un cochon pour toi

Tu vas mettre un carcan, dans mon cou

Some interesting facts about Clifton Chenier:

- Rory Gallagher wrote the song ‘King of Zydeco’ to tribute Clifton Chenier

- Paul Simon Mentioned Clifton in his song “That was Your Mother” on the famous album Graceland (1986)

- In the song La Fayette John Mellencamp refers to Cheniers city in Louisiana.