The Daiquiri Queens - From the Porch
The Daiquiri Queens reside in southwest Louisiana- the heart of one of most vibrant and culturally rich musical landscapes in the world- where they have carved out a unique place in the lively music scene of Lafayette. Gleaning inspiration from early Cajun and Creole dance music, their sound draws you in with fiery accordion, twin fiddling and Cajun French vocals lamenting the heartbreak and joy of everyday life. Most importantly, their music has an undeniably danceable rhythm. This is what has kept dance floors packed in Louisiana for decades and what brings people back to see The Queens again and again.
Fronted by guitarist Jamie Lynn Fontenot and bassist Miriam McCracken, the vocalists take hold of the sound immediately with their sibling-like harmonies. Dan Willging of Offbeat Magazine describes this as the Queens’ primary focal point. “Sometimes they sing in unison, but mostly Fontenot takes the lead and McCracken adds harmony. Though other groups feature female vocalists, Fontenot and McCracken’s vocals are to die for. Whether it’s rocking with sass (“Fais Do Do”), a dancefloor dust kicker (“Je T’aime Toujours”) or something eternally heart-melting (“Plus Tu Tournes”), their vocals are versatile enough to pivot instantly in any direction.”
Since making their debut at the beloved South Louisiana Blackpot Festival & Cookoff in 2017, The Queens have gone on to become favorites at late-night dances and major festivals alike, performing at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Festival International de Louisiane and Festivals Acadiens et Créoles, as well as touring the United States. They are the 2022 recipients of Offbeat Magazine’s Best of the Beat award for “Best Cajun Artist”.
The quintet’s debut album, which was produced by Chris Stafford of Feufollet and released in 2020, uncovers an eclectic mix of material, showcasing raucous two-steps, heart-broken waltzes and ballads alike. Feufollet bandmate, Philippe Billeaudeaux , refers to The Daiquiri Queens’ debut album as “one of the best trad records to come along in years.” They are currently working on a second album.