This lecture has been CANCELED. Please check our calendar for other upcoming lectures.

Kevin Fontenot will discuss the war service and post war musical careers of three influential figures in country music. Charlie Fitch operated a pioneering record label "Sarge" in Luling, Texas, recording artists such as Doug Sahm, Adolph Hofner, and Al Urban. Julius "Papa Cairo" Lamperez pioneered Cajun steel guitar styles and provided the inspiration for Hank Williams' "Jambalaya." Sidney "Hardrock" Gunter recorded what is widely regarded as one of the first rock and roll records. All three spent time as POWs held by the Germans in some of the harshest stalags. This talk will examine their wartime experience and their impact on country music following the war. Feel free to bring your lunch or just come and enjoy the lecture. For more information call 504-528-1944 x 229.