The heart of swamp pop phenomenon lies in Ville Platte, named the “Swamp Pop Capital of the World” by the Louisiana Legislature. This February, it’s the 18th annual Swamp Pop Reunion concert at the Ville Platte Civic Center. Tickets went on sale after New Year’s but be warned, they sell out quickly.

1 | Learn the History

Everything you need to know about swamp pop music may be found at the Swamp Pop Museum in the heart of Ville Platte. The museum, celebrating 13 years, contains photographs, albums, a wall of fame autographs, instruments, stage costumes, musician stories and more. Currently, the museum features an exhibit on swamp pop legend Johnnie Allan designed by Allan and his daughter, Donna Guillot. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays with a modest admission of $3.

2 | Grab a Swamp Bite

All that dancing to swamp pop music works up an appetite, so pause at Café Evangeline for gumbo, blackened stuffed redfish Evangeline or Ville Platte poutine — French fries topped with cheese curds and cream sauce. Cottage Couture on Soileau Street offers a café, gift shop and bed and breakfast, plus occasional live music nights. Check Facebook pages of both eateries for times and events.

3 | Buy the Hits…and More!

James Floyd Soileau hailed from a rural area northwest of Ville Platte and worked as a local deejay and record salesman, the latter of which led him to opening Floyd’s Record Shop and Flat Town Music Company in Ville Platte. Floyd’s became the store to purchase Cajun music, much of which was difficult to find at the time, and Soileau recorded music of his own as well as others on the Swallow and Jin labels. After 56 years, Floyd’s closed shop, but the labels continue to operate and evolve.

Swamp Pop Museum
205 N.W. Railroad Ave.
(337) 363-0900

Cafe Evangeline
102 W. Main St.
​(337) 363-3603
facebook.com/CafeevangelineVP

Cottage Couture
122 S. Soileau St.
(337) 363-3388
facebook.com/CottageCouture

Floyd’s Record Shop and Flat Town Music Company
700 S Chataignier St.
(337) 363-2184 or (800) 738-8668
flattownmusic.com/floyds-record-shop