Louisiana is home to a variety of popular musical styles recognized by an international public. Less widely known is the extent of indigenous influence on these regional musical traditions. This paper focuses on the roots of zydeco music, presenting evidence for underlying Atakapa-Ishak origins. Understanding the complex history of this musical tradition involves reexamining local notions of “Creole,” a term which plays a large role in shaping cultural identities and creating perceptual categories that define both language and music in Louisiana. Recognizing Atakapa-Ishak contributions to popular music can, in turn, catalyze efforts to revitalize the Atakapa language, as indigenous lyrics are incorporated into new musical compositions in a variety of styles, including traditional Christian music as well as songs associated with Native American spiritual ceremonies, intertwining the sacred with everyday experience.
Please see attached flier for more informaiton: Popular Music and Indigenous Languages in LA_Lief and Darensbourg_2015