cedric watson

Biography

Cedric Watson, born in 1983, is a renowned American musician from San Felipe, Texas. He developed an early interest in traditional French music from Southwest Louisiana and the greater Houston area, diverging from his peers who favored hip-hop. Watson's musical journey began at the age of 19 with his first performance at the Zydeco Jam in Houston. He later moved to Lafayette, Louisiana, where he immersed himself in the local music scene and became a key figure in preserving Creole music. With his band Bijou Creole, Watson explores the roots of Louisiana's Creole music, blending ancient French and Spanish contra dance with African rhythms. His performances are known for their nostalgic yet progressive style, reflecting his diverse ancestry. Watson has been nominated for four Grammy Awards and has performed in numerous countries, including France, Nova Scotia, Haiti, and Spain. His work includes collaborations with notable groups like the Pine Leaf Boys and Les Amis Creole. Watson's legacy is marked by his contributions to the continuity of Creole music and his ability to connect diverse cultural influences through his music. He has also been featured in media, such as the HBO series Treme, further highlighting his impact on contemporary Cajun and Zydeco music.

Fun Facts

• Cedric Watson appeared in the HBO series Treme, showcasing his musical talents.
• He has performed in 17 countries, spreading Creole music globally.
• Watson emphasizes the importance of Native American influences in Zydeco rhythms.
• He is known for his ability to blend diverse cultural elements into his music.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Dexter Ardoin - Influence through collaboration with Creole Ramblers (Creole Ramblers performances) [Early career]

Key Collaborators

• Corey Ledet - Collaboration in various musical projects (Multiple albums and performances) [2000s]
• Ed Poullard and J.B. Adams - Part of Les Amis Creole (Les Amis Creole albums) [2000s]
• Chris Stafford - Member of the Cedric Watson Trio (Homegrown Concerts) [2010s]
• Desireé Champagne - Rubboardist in Bijou Creole and the Cedric Watson Trio (Bijou Creole performances) [2010s]

Artists Influenced

• Younger Cajun and Zydeco musicians - Inspiration through his innovative style and performances (General influence on the genre) [Ongoing]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Goin' Down To Louisiana (Goin' Down to Louisiana)
2. Cochon De Lait (Cedric Watson)
3. La Vieille Chanson De Mardi Gras (Cedric Watson)
4. C'est La Vie (Le Troubadour Creole)
5. J'ai Été Tout Autour Du Pays (Cedric Watson)
6. Skip, Skat, Doodle-do (Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (Music from the Netflix Film))
7. Stubben (Stubben)
8. Let The Good Times Roll (Goin' Down to Louisiana)
9. Broken Hearted (Goin' Down to Louisiana)
10. Bijou Créole (L'esprit Créole)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz