C.J. Chenier and the Red Hot Louisiana Band Come to St. Paul's Ordway, 2/8

The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts officially announces C.J. Chenier and the Red Hot Louisiana Band will perform in place of Buckwheat Zydeco as part of the Ordway's 2012-2013 Target World Music and Dance Series. Buckwheat Zydeco was unable to continue his tour due to illness (see additional news release). The performance will take place at the same time and date, Fri., Feb. 8, at 7:30 p.m. in the Ordway's Music Theater.

With a solo career dating back to 1987 and eight albums under his belt, C.J. Chenier is widely regarded as one of the best Zydeco singers, musicians and performers. Son of the "King of Zydeco" Clifton Chenier, C.J. Chenier has spread word of Zydeco music to the world, all the while pushing the genre to new heights with his virtuosity.

C.J. Chenier began his early career by playing Top 40 music, but soon decided to follow in his father's footsteps when he picked up the accordion at the age of 21. After his father's death, C.J. Chenier took over the Red Hot Louisiana Band, continued his father's legacy, and became well-known for his own unique music and performing skills.

Although traditional Zydeco remains The Core of the band's music, C.J. Chenier has continuously pushed those boundaries, adding in new elements of modern funk with healthy does of blues, R&B, swamp pop and even country. C.J. Chenier's mastery of the accordion, combined with his rich and satisfying voice, is the driving force behind this powerhouse Zydeco band.

The band's most recent album, "Can't Sit Down," was nominated for a 2011 Grammy Award in the Best Regional Roots Music category. Focusing on freshness, energy and capturing the "live" moment, the album was recorded in one session at Rock Romano's recording studio in Houston, Texas.

The Red Hot Louisiana Band members include C.J. Chenier (vocals, accordion, flute, piano, organ); Glenn Griffin (bass); Michael Morris (drums); Clifford Alexander (frottior/rub board); Tim Betts (guitar); and David Macejka (percussion).

Called "the crown prince of zydeco" by The Boston Globe and "the best living Zydeco singer and accordionist" by Living Blues Magazine, C.J. Chenier is a crowd pleaser and an authentic Zydeco master.

An Ordway Extra will take place before the performance beginning at 6:30 p.m., focusing on the history of Zydeco music. There will also be a post-show party with Ordway staff and band representatives in the Marzitelli Foyer. Drinks will be available for purchase.

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