The Rolling Stones Back Johnny Nicholas and Jimmie Vaughan on Award-Winning Zydeco Album

The recent Grammy win for Best Regional Roots Music Album, “A Tribute To The King Of Zydeco,” has garnered significant support from Johnny Nicholas and Jimmie Vaughan, as well as iconic musicians like The Rolling Stones. This album pays tribute to the legendary Clifton Chenier and was produced by Steve Berlin of Los Lobos and released on Valcour Records, a Louisiana-based label. Featured artists on the album include Taj Mahal, CJ Chenier, Lucinda Williams, Augie Meyers, Sonny Landreth, Steve Earle, John Hiatt, and more, in addition to Nicholas and Vaughan.

The project celebrates the life and influence of Clifton Chenier, a pioneer in the zydeco genre who played a pivotal role in bridging zydeco and blues to shape American roots music. The album’s most notable song, “My Soul,” is a blues composition by Chenier that Nicholas and Vaughan chose to interpret as a tribute to his deep blues roots. Both musicians have a personal connection to Chenier dating back to the 1970s when he and his band frequently performed at Antone’s in Austin, a venue that played a crucial role in establishing the city’s renowned blues culture.

Speaking about their participation in the project, Nicholas expressed the significance of those formative years spent listening to Clifton Chenier’s performances and the impact they had on the Austin music scene. Their decision to collaborate on the album was influenced by Joel Savoy of Valcour Records, whom they both hold in high regard. The influence of the Recording Academy’s recognition of the album cannot be overstated, as it highlights the enduring legacy of Chenier and the continued relevance of regional roots music.

The album includes a diverse range of tracks featuring a mix of artists paying homage to Clifton Chenier’s musical legacy. The tracklist includes songs such as “Zydeco Sont Pas Salé” by The Rolling Stones and Steve Riley, “Easy Easy Baby” by Charley Crockett and Nathan Williams, Sr., and “Hey ‘Tite Fille” by Taj Mahal and Keith Frank, among others. Each track is a testament to Chenier’s impact on the musical landscape and his ability to transcend genres, leaving a lasting impression on future generations of musicians.

By participating in “A Tribute To The King Of Zydeco,” Johnny Nicholas and Jimmie Vaughan have not only honored the legacy of Clifton Chenier but also solidified their own place in the rich tapestry of American roots music. The album serves as a timeless tribute to a musical icon whose influence continues to resonate in the hearts and minds of music lovers around the world.