Lawrence Walker

Lawrence Walker (September 1, 1907 – August 15, 1968)[2][3] was a Cajun accordionist. He is known for his original songs, including Reno Waltz, Evangeline Waltz, Bosco Stomp, and Mamou Two Step.[4]

For other people named Lawrence Walker, see Lawrence Walker (disambiguation).

Lawrence Walker
Lawrence Walker's tribute CD cover
Background information
Also known asKing of the Accordion Players
Born(1907-09-01)September 1, 1907[1][2]
Duson, Louisiana[1][2][3]
DiedAugust 15, 1968(1968-08-15) (aged 60)[1]
Rayne, Louisiana[3]
GenresCajun
Occupation(s)Musician, accordionist
Instrument(s)Cajun accordion

Biography

Lawrence Walker was born September 1, 1907, in Duson, Louisiana[1][2] to Allen Walker, a fiddle player.[5] At 13 Walker began playing in a band with his father and brother Elton, who was also a fiddler. They recorded their first record in 1929 with Bluebird Records. In 1936, Walker performed at the National Folk Festival.[3] Although known for his accordion playing, he made most of his money through rice farming. He focused on music after World War II when he toured with his band The Wandering Aces. 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.

Legacy

Walker wrote only original songs, many of which are still in Cajun repertoire.[2] Walker was inducted into the Cajun French Music Association Hall of Fame in 1997 – its inaugural year.[6]

Discography

Compilations

  • Cajun Honky Tonk – Various Artists (CD 427 Arhoolie, 1995)
  • A Tribute to the Late, Great Lawrence Walker (LL-126 La Louisianne, 1995, 2000)
  • Essential Collection of Lawrence Walker (SW6221 Swallow, 2010)
  • Cajun Honky Tonk: The Khoury Recordings, Vol. 2 (CD 541 Arhoolie, 2012)

References
  1. "SWLA Musicians Encyclopedia Index, S through Z". Retrieved October 9, 2010.
  2. Bogdanov, Vladimir (2002). All Music Guide to Rock: The Definitive Guide to Rock, Pop, and Soul (3rd ed.). Backbeat Books. p. 871. ISBN 978-0879306533.
  4. Neal Pomea (Pommier). "Cajun music mp3: Hadacol it Something!". Retrieved October 9, 2010.
  5. "Lawrence Walker – Bio, CDs and Vinyl at Discogs". Retrieved October 9, 2010.
  6. "CFMA – The Cajun French Music Association – Dedicated To Promote & Preserve Cajun Music and Culture". Archived from the original on May 28, 2010. Retrieved September 9, 2010.
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