As a “Ragin’ Cajun”, my roots run deep in the “Heart of Acadiana”—Lafayette, Louisiana. It’s a fascinating culture—a melting pot of French, Native American, African American, Spanish, Irish, German, and English. We’re a colorful people and if you haven’t tried Cajun food, what are you waiting for!!!??? Crawfish étouffée, gumbo, jambalaya, boudin, and red beans are rice are staples of good eating! The music is lively, the folks are passionate, and the festivals are sacred.
I wrote this tune as a song of sisterhood—paying homage to all the strong women or “Steel Magnolias” in my life whose sacrifices and perseverance paved the way for the many blessings I enjoy today. Every accomplishment in my life has been in no small part a commingling of all our determinations. The myth of Evangeline and Gabriel stems from Longfellow’s poem but holds particularly creative cultural significance in South Louisiana.
The Cajun fiddle is a primary instrument in the music of southwest Louisiana. In this song, its fluid lamentation is the collective river of tears that sometimes carries us to exactly where we’re meant to be.
The video is shot in an authentic “Acadian Village” in Lafayette, Louisiana that replicates the way of life of the Cajuns. Acadian Village is sponsored by LARC, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. LARC’s mission is to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities reach their goals of self-sufficiency, quality of life, and self-worth. All revenue generated from tourism, sales, and events at the Acadian Village benefits LARC and its various community programs. When you’re in Cajun Country, stop in and visit…and get some gumbo!