Back in July, Talkhouse contributor A.J. Haynes of Seratones showed us what it was like for the group to play music for chimps at Chimp Haven. Now the band is out on tour, and, to celebrate, they put together this playlist, a tribute to their home state of Louisiana. Make sure to catch them on the road, and enjoy!
–Dave Lucas, Talkhouse Marketing Manager
Sam Cooke – “A Change Is Gonna Come”
On a balmy fall Shreveport evening in 1963, Sam Cooke was arrested for “disturbing the peace.” Mr. Soul caused a justifiable ruckus after being refused service at the Holiday Inn due to the color of his skin. His experience in Shreveport served as part of the inspiration for this iconic song.
Irma Thomas – “Time Is on My Side”
Louisiana native Irma Thomas was the first woman I saw really own a stage. She left a lasting impression on me. Apparently, she left a lasting impression on Mick Jagger, too.
Brenton Wood – “The Oogum Boogum Song”
Shreveport son Brenton Wood has a playfulness that’s contagious. You can’t listen to this song and not want to shake and shimmy.
J.J. Cale – “Magnolia”
Naturally was one of the first records I ever bought. I remember when J.J. Cale passed away. It was a sweet July day, unseasonably temperate for Shreveport. This song always brings me back to everything I love about Louisiana summers.
Robert Pete Williams – “Angola Penitentiary Blues”
Louisiana is the prison capital of the world. I love my state, but she’s got a long way to go. Robert Pete William’s song is a heartbreaking tale about our prison industrial complex.
Captain Beefheart – “Grown So Ugly”
I love Captain Beefheart’s version of this Robert Pete Williams tune.
Gar Gar – “King Cake Baby”
I’m a Gar Gar fan for life. He sends his fans a personalized Happy Birthday wish. I’ve received one every year from him. This song makes me want king cake.
Dead Kennedys – “Moon over Marin”
Louisiana’s coasts have been victim to the oil spills Jello Biafra mentions in this song. In surefire satirical Kennedys’ fashion, it shows how even the most toxic environment can create great art.
Ghostfoot – “Vulture”
I met Jacob from Ghostfoot at a coffee shop years ago and we became fast friends. I’ve always loved his songs. We both have an unshakable adoration for the beats and rock & roll. Connor plays baritone guitar on this track.
Solange – “Closing: The Chosen Ones”
I don’t think people quite realize how articulate and profound Master P is. He is a shining example of Southern ingenuity. We’re all just trying to make something out of nothing. “We came here as slaves, but we’re going out as royalty.”
The Meters – “Fire on the Bayou”
Seeing Louisiana’s own Meters at Festivale Internationale in Lafayette was an earth-shaking moment for me. They have an interstellar groove that is absolutely undeniable.
Joshua October and the Wool – “King of New Orleans”
Shreveport native Joshua October (also known to us as Party Boss Josh) is a conjuror of analog mysticism. He recorded this song in his bedroom on a dual-deck karaoke machine. It haunts my sideways-3 a.m.-excursions through stranger thoughts with the line, “I am not afraid of anything.” The Wool is also a lively bunch.
Hurricane Chris – “Halle Berry”
Hurricane Chris is an internationally known hip-hop artist from Shreveport, Louisiana. This song is real ratchet.
Big Freedia – “Gin in My System”
Twerking should be an Olympic Sport. Miss Queen Diva always puts me in the best mood. Sometimes you just have to release the wiggle.
Blood Punch – “You Don’t Even Know”
Nate is our brother from another mother. Raiven is our sister from another mister. BLOOD PUNCH FOREVER!
