The Rolling Stones Performed Clifton Chenier's Hit
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The Rolling Stones Performed Clifton Chenier’s Hit

The Rolling Stones paid homage to Clifton Chenier’s iconic zydeco anthem, “Zydeco Sont Pas Salés.” Thus, they marked what would have been the 100th birthday of the legendary Louisiana accordionist.

Chenier, known as the “King of Zydeco,” was a pioneering figure in the Zydeco genre. His style poured through blues and rhythm-infused folk, bearing an all-accordion hallmark. His contributions to the field were vast; this single, “Clinton Blues,” recorded in 1954, became truly one of the foundational pieces of Zydeco.

The Rolling Stones Performed Clifton Chenier's Hit

It is a stirring melding of the classic rock sound with the undeniable zydeco roots coming straight from Chenier. Hence, Mick Jagger’s vocals were delivered in French Creole. Additionally, with accordion virtuoso Steve Riley adding his signature touch, the cover is part of the upcoming compilation album A Tribute to the King of Zydeco. The project will come out via Valcour Records. It will feature an eclectic roster of artists, including Lucinda Williams, Taj Mahal, Steve Earle, and C.J. Chenier, Clifton’s son. Profits from the album will benefit the Clifton Chenier Memorial Scholarship Fund.

The Rolling Stones and The New Project

Jagger spoke with Rolling Stone about the project, reflecting on the creative process. “It’s fun to do these things. Sometimes, they work out, and sometimes they don’t, and sound like rubbish. But this sounds kind of different and interesting.”

Clifton Chenier’s legacy extends far beyond his musical innovations. He received multiple Grammy nominations, winning Best Ethnic or Traditional Folk Album for “I’m Here!” In 1982. Chenier was also honored with a National Heritage Fellowship in 1984 and inducted posthumously into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1989. Also, he received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, cementing his status as a cultural icon.

As the Rolling Stones continue paying homage to past musical luminaries, perhaps another chapter is getting ready to be added to their long, storied history. Following the success of Hackney Diamonds in 2023, when the album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, the Rolling Stones revealed the potential of another release on the horizon. “We’ve got a lot more,” Jagger told Reuters last year. “I think we maybe set up to make another album quite soon.”