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  • Oral History

Vin Bruce and Leroy Martin

March 7, 1986 OHC43 115 min.
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Biography


Cajun music performer. Born April 25, 1932. One of the first Cajun musicians to gain national attention. Recorded for Columbia Records, 1951-1956. Recordings include “Dans la Louisianne.” Strong regional popularity 1960s-1990s. Released Carousel for Two, issued on the Louisiana Red record label, in 2000.

Interview Summary

1986 March 7
(1 hour, 55 minutes)
Vin Bruce and Leroy Martin discuss Bruce’s career as a Cajun musician. Discussion includes his childhood in Louisiana; early country music influences; early dances and dance halls; early recording sessions; singing at Hank Williams’s wedding; the impact of rock & roll on Bruce’s Music; his Grand Ole Opry and Louisiana Hayride appearances; Vin and Leroy working together; hiring Doc Guidry; recording the album Vin Bruce Sings; working in Canada; The Leroy Martin Show; and comments the influence of Cajun music.