Austin Pitre

During the formative years of Cajun music, Austin Pitre stood out as one of its most flamboyant performers and earned lasting recognition for his dynamic stage presence. He asserted that he was the first Cajun accordionist to perform while standing, captivating crowds through theatrical flourishes such as maneuvering his instrument behind his back and above his head. Alongside his group the Evangeline Playboys, Pitre committed to disc enduring Cajun standards including "Les Flammes D'enfer" and the "Opelousas Waltz." Under the supervision of Arhoolie’s Chris Strachwitz, he laid down eighteen selections in 1971. Those performances took place in Pitre’s garage with portable gear and later appeared as the album Opelousas Waltz in 1997.