A California music critic for the Oakland Tribune has named Lafayette one of America's most tuneful cities. In High Notes: America's best music towns, Jim Harrington writes:

"Louisiana's fourth largest city, located roughly two hours west of [New Orleans], is such an appealing hotbed of authentic Cajun, Creole, zydeco and other indigenous styles that it demands its own spot on this list."

Also making the list were Austin, Chicago, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Nashville and Memphis.

The distinction for the Hub City was no surprise to those who call Acadiana home, including singer/songwriter and Carencro-native Marc Broussard.

"I spent my life on the stages in Lafayette, Louisiana, I've been surrounded by the musicians from this area, it's a great scene," he said.

Among the top attractions, Harrington highlighted the Savoy Music Center in Eunice and the Blue Moon Saloon. The review also noted Festival International as a top reason to visit, which was humbling for those who work year-round on the four day festival.

"It's just authentic, and what you get here is just different than what you see in other places, which have their own authenticity, which just makes it special," said Dana Canedo, executive director for Festival International.

Jim Hummel

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