In a celebration of Southern Louisiana's vibrant music scene, the latest edition of the Acadiana Music Showcase brings together two renowned musicians for a special collaboration. This month, listeners of the World Cafe Words and Music Podcast can enjoy a unique set featuring Leyla McCalla and Louis Michot, two artists who have significantly shaped the landscape of folk music.
Uniting Musical Traditions
Leyla McCalla and Louis Michot, both well-respected figures in the folk community, have joined forces to provide a rich blend of Franco-Creole-American sounds. Their performance, which includes a rendition of the Haitian folk classic "Peze Cafe" and other traditional tunes, showcases the diversity and depth of Louisiana's musical heritage.
McCalla, known for her work with the Carolina Chocolate Drops and her role in Our Native Daughters, has consistently fascinated audiences with her mastery of the banjo and cello. Her involvement in projects like "Kanaval: Haitian Rhythms & the Music of New Orleans" underscores her dedication to exploring the cultural ties between Haiti and Louisiana.
Louis Michot's Musical Journey
Joining McCalla is Louis Michot, the Grammy-winning lead singer of the Lost Bayou Ramblers. Michot has been a pivotal figure in promoting Cajun music and was part of the very first Acadiana Music Showcase in September 2024. His adept skills on the fiddle add a distinct flair to the duo's performance.
The collaboration between McCalla and Michot is a testament to their long-standing friendship and shared passion for folk music. Together, they deliver an engaging mini-concert that promises a journey through the intricate sounds of Southern Louisiana. Their set features a variety of songs like "La Valse de La Meche Purdue," "La Coulée Rodair," and "Les Plats Sont Tous Mis Sur La Table."
Podcast Behind-the-Scenes
This episode of the World Cafe Words and Music Podcast is produced by KRVS Public Media at the University of Louisiana, Lafayette. The collaboration with the Acadiana Center for the Arts and the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission brings a well-rounded production enriched by the expertise of series producer Megan Constantin and audio engineer Kris Wotipka.
Listening options for this podcast are abundant. Fans can tune in via the NPR app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and more. This ensures that the enchanting melodies of McCalla and Michot reach audiences far and wide, offering a taste of Louisiana's musical gem wherever you are.
