Bobby Charles

To continue with my theme (that would be the "Waaaah I'm missing JazzFest" theme) here is the great 1972 self-titled record by the late Bobby Charles. Bobby was a singer and songwriter born and raised in rural Cajun country in Louisiana (making him less of a New Orleans guy than our last couple subjects) - Bobby had 'bayou water running through his veins.'

He is also well known for his association with The Band. He makes a brief appearance on 'The Last Waltz' and lived in Woodstock for a time. His 'Bobby Charles' LP was co-produced by Rick Danko and John Simon and features most of The Band and Dr. John as well. It fits well with the records The Band were putting out at the time, but with Bobby's distinctive Cajun voice leading the way. AllMusic.com (in typical AllMusic.com fashion) calls it "Swamp Pop." I just know it is fun to listen to and wish I around for the good times these guys had when they recorded it.

Bobby Charles died at home in Louisiana earlier this year.