Lawrence Walker
Lawrence Walker | |
---|---|
Also known as | King of the Accordion Players |
Born | September 1, 1907 |
Origin | Duson, Louisiana |
Died | August 15, 1968 60) | (aged
Genres | Cajun |
Occupations | Musician, Accordionist |
Instruments | Cajun accordion |
Associated acts |
Wandering Aces[1] Walker Brothers[2] |
Lawrence Walker (September 1, 1907 – August 15, 1968)[3] was a Cajun accordionist born near Duson, Louisiana.[4] He is known for his original songs, including Reno Waltz, Evangeline Special, Bosco Stomp, and Mamou Two Step.[5]
Biography
Lawrence Walker was the son of Allen Walker a fiddle player.[6] At 13 Walker began playing in a band with his father and brother Elton, who was also a fiddler.[1] They recorded their first record in 1929 with Bluebird Records.[1] In 1936, Walker performed at the National Folk Festival.[2] Although known for his accordion playing, he made most of his money through rice farming.[3] He focused on music after World War II when he toured with his band The Wandering Aces.[3] Walker died in Rayne, Louisiana of heart failure.[2][3]
Accordion Playing
Wallker was known for his ability as well as his showmanship on the accordion. Walker was able to please crowds as well as win many accordion contests.[1]
Legacy
Walker wrote only original songs, many of which are still in Cajun repertoire.[3] Walker was inducted into the Cajun French Music Association Hall of Fame in 1997 - its inaugural year.[7]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Nadeeka Johnson. "Lawrence Walker, King of the Accordion Players". Retrieved 2010-10-09.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 "Dictionary W, Louisiana Historical Association". Retrieved 2010-10-09.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Sandra Brennan. "Lawrence Walker: Information from Answers.com". Retrieved 2010-10-09.
- ↑ "SWLA Musicians Encyclopedia Index, S through Z". Retrieved 2010-10-09.
- ↑ Neal Pomea (Pommier). "Cajun music mp3: Hadacol it Something!". Retrieved 2010-10-09.
- ↑ "Lawrence Walker - Bio, CDs and Vinyl at Discogs". Retrieved 2010-10-09.
- ↑ "CFMA - The Cajun French Music Association - Dedicated To Promote & Preserve Cajun Music and Culture". Retrieved 2010-09-09.
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