Editor’s note: In The Language of the Blues: From Alcorub to ZuZu, author and rocker Debra Devi explores the meaning of a word or phrase from a blues song. The award-winning book includes a foreword by Dr. John and is blurbed by Bonnie Raitt and Joe Bonamassa. Order here!
The word “bayou” comes from the Choctaw bayuk, which French settlers in Louisiana appropriated as bayouque. It describes the brackish inlets and outlets from the Gulf of Mexico that meander sluggishly through the cypress swamps of the lowlands.
People living in the rural wetlands communities of Louisiana have been known to use the bayous like roads. “The road in front of my house ends at the swamp,” says blues guitarist Tab Benoit, who grew up in the boggy bayou of Houma, Louisiana, “and you go some more in a boat and reach the Gulf.”
Growing up, Benoit traveled north to Baton Rouge, where he heard the “swamp blues” of Slim Harpo, Lightnin’ Slim, and Lazy Lester. Their songs reflect the easygoing, lost-in-time quality of bayou life.
“What a great resource, as fascinating as it is informative. Debra’s passion for the blues shines through.” – Bonnie Raitt
“Debra’s book will teach you what you really need to know about blues history and where the blues are coming from.” – Joe Bonamassa
“Finally one can understand the mechanics behind the overwhelming viscera of the Blues. Debra Devi’s work is a true guide book to the soul.” – Al Jourgensen (Ministry)
“This book is fascinating! Take it to the bathroom and don’t come out until you’re done reading it.” – Jimmy Vivino
“This is a beautiful book. Upon receiving The Language of the Blues I discovered my knowledge only scratched the surface. Debra Devi has written an invaluable reference book. And it’s also great fun to read.” – Hal Willner
“Don’t think that The Language of the Blues might read like a dictionary or reference book. There’s no plot, but you can open it up at random and fall into the world of your favorite Blues songs, and find out more about the lyrics than you would be guessing from context. I learned a lot more about the Blues music I already loved.” – Bob Margolin
