Watch Zydeco Crossroads: A Tale Of Two Cities

Zydeco Crossroads: A Tale of Two Cities is a heartwarming documentary that explores the world of music and the evolution of zydeco, a unique musical style that is deeply rooted in the American Gulf Coast. The movie is directed by Jim Gabour and produced by Christina Melton. The film takes viewers on a journey through the history of zydeco, starting in the early 20th century with its African American origins in Southwest Louisiana. It features interviews with legendary zydeco musicians such as Clifton Chenier and Boozoo Chavis, who are credited with popularising the genre in the 1950s and 60s.

Zydeco Crossroads also explores the cultural significance of zydeco and how it has impacted the communities that it originated from. The film highlights the role of zydeco in providing a voice to the African American community and how it has provided a platform for people to express themselves and their culture through music.

The documentary focuses on two cities, Lafayette and Philadelphia, that represent different sides of the zydeco scene. Lafayette is a small town in Southwest Louisiana, which is the birthplace of zydeco. The city is rich in cultural history, and the people of Lafayette have a deep appreciation for zydeco music.

Philadelphia, on the other hand, is a city that is predominantly African American and has a vibrant zydeco scene. This city has become an unlikely hub for zydeco music, with several prominent zydeco bands hailing from Philadelphia.

The film contrasts the two cities, highlighting the unique aspects of their zydeco cultures while showing the similarities between the two. The filmmakers delve into the history of zydeco in both cities, exploring how the music has evolved over time and how it continues to connect people from different cultures and backgrounds.

One of the main threads throughout the film is the Zydeco Crossroads project, which seeks to bring the music of zydeco to new audiences across the United States. The project features a residency program that brings zydeco musicians to Philadelphia to collaborate with local musicians and perform for new audiences.

The documentary also follows some of the musicians involved in the Zydeco Crossroads project, including Corey Ledet, Cedric Watson, and Rosie Ledet. These talented musicians share their love for the music and how it has impacted their lives. They talk about their experiences performing in different parts of the country and how they have seen the power of zydeco to bring people together.

Overall, Zydeco Crossroads: A Tale of Two Cities is a moving and insightful account of the history and culture of zydeco. The film provides a fascinating look into the musical traditions of Southwest Louisiana and the African American community and how zydeco has continued to evolve and thrive in new locations across the United States.

Through stunning visuals, rich storytelling, and interviews with some of the most iconic figures in zydeco, this documentary captures the heart and soul of this vibrant musical genre. Whether you are a longtime fan of zydeco or a newcomer to the scene, Zydeco Crossroads: A Tale of Two Cities is a must-see film that will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.

Zydeco Crossroads: A Tale Of Two Cities is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes.