Harry Choates

Known as the "Godfather of Cajun Music," Texan Harry Choates modernized traditional cajun by incorporating elements of Western swing. Cutting his teeth in early '30s cajun bands, Choates formed his own unit, the Melody Boys, and recorded many sides for the Gold Star label in 1946-7. Among these was "Jole Blon," Choates' hit reworking of an old standard and easily the most famous cajun song ever recorded. Following its success, he toured dancehalls in Louisiana and Texas never repeating the popularity of his first hit. A rowdy partier who often succumbed to his many demons, Choates’ died in prison in July 1951.