Biography
Originating from the remnants of Fernest & the Thunders, the zydeco outfit fronted by accordionist Fernest Arceneaux, the Creole Zydeco Farmers took shape after an injury sidelined the leader and brought the earlier group to an end in 1989. Drummer Clarence "Jockey" Etienne and guitarist Chester Chevalier then combined their efforts to launch a fresh ensemble devoted strictly to traditional zydeco. Based in Lafayette, LA, the unit draws its name from the dominant livelihood across Louisiana’s southwestern parishes, where agriculture has remained a respected tradition across many generations. Its roster features bassist James Prejean, accordionist Morris Francis—who also handles vocals and scrub board—and Walter Prejean Sr., who supplies vocals, scrub board, and accordion. Chevalier covers both rhythm and lead guitar duties, while Etienne maintains the drum chair he once held with Arceneaux. Every member is a Louisiana native whose family roots lie in Lafayette Parish. The group has served as opening act for prominent zydeco acts including Beau Jocque & the Zydeco Hi-Rollers, Buckwheat Zydeco, Wayne Toups & Zydecajun, and the Blues Runners. Building their own reputation, the musicians have carried their sound across Canada and through much of the United States, with appearances in California, Tennessee, Washington, Oregon, Kentucky, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Texas, Mississippi, New York, and Washington, D.C. International dates have taken them to Greece, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and Holland. They appear each year on the stage of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. At an earlier point, Etienne worked as a studio musician for Excello Records; his drumming appears on sessions by Slim Harpo, Fats Domino, Lazy Lester, and Katie Webster, among others.
Albums