Zachary Richard

Zachary Richard was born in Scott, Louisiana in 1950, growing up with Cajun music around him. His father played accordion, and early influences included Clifton Chenier and Iry LeJeune. He started his first band as a teenager.

In 1976, his album 'Lafayette Par Lo' brought wider attention to Cajun music. Songs like 'A La Radio' and 'Allons Danser' became familiar sounds in Louisiana, often touching on themes of home and cultural identity. He's released more than twenty albums over time, including 'The Alligator King' in 1980 and 'Migration Blues' in 1996.

Richard has worked with musicians like Steve Riley, Michael Doucet, and David Doucet. His music draws from Cajun traditions along with blues and folk elements, without losing its regional character. He's also collaborated with artists outside the genre, including Bonnie Raitt and Emmylou Harris.