Helen Reddy – Laissez les Bontemps Rouler – Louisiana Cajun Song – New Orleans

I really enjoyed making this video. I was born and raised in New York City, so my knowledge of Louisiana Cajun culture was very little at best when I was a young lad. When this song was released back in 1977, I was a mere 17 years old. When I first heard the song, I didn’t think it quite belonged on the “Ear Candy” album–and further, what the heck does this song mean? Well, now that I’m older and more appreciative of various cultures, I’ve come to learn more about Louisiana Cajun culture and cuisine and that knowledge put this song into perspective.

This song was the only Helen Reddy tune to make its appearance on Billboard’s Country chart–albeit at an abysmal No. 98. “Laissez les Bontemps (sic) Rouler” (the correct French spelling is bon temps [two words]) was released as the B side of “The Happy Girls”. “The Happy Girls” was a huge disappointment for Helen Reddy–it only peaked at No. 57 on Billboard’s Hot 100 in 1977. “The Happy Girls” charted a bit better (No. 14) on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart–a chart that was very good to Helen whenever the pop chart wasn’t.

I hope everyone who enjoys Cajun culture, crawfish, étouffée, and country music will also enjoy this video.

Duration : 0:2:33