Design for Media: Semester Final

EDIT: I have removed this video clip because of non-libre content (music) that is legally permissible under fair use, but conflicts with my Creative Commons license. You can view the clip here.

There are a number of people identified as "Creole" around the world. The word means a large group of people with specific mixed ancestry. When we say "Creole" in the United States, we typically mean the Louisiana Creole. The Louisiana Creole are descended from colonial French settlers, African Americans, and Native Americans. They have a unique culture, which includes a their own dialect of the French language, their own cuisine, and their own music.

Zydeco is one genre of music that has its roots in Creole culture. It's a fusion genre, with origins in Cajun music, African American blues, and jazz. It got its start in the early twentieth century in southern Louisiana. The essential instruments are the accordion and a washboard. A Frottoir is sometimes used in place of a washboard. The Frottoir is basically a bib or vest made of corrugated metal, and played with bottle openers, spoons, or other similar objects as a rhythm instrument. Other instruments that are often used include the drums and bass guitar. Less commonly, a fiddle and/or rhythm guitar may be added to the mix.

This project includes graphic elements that are designed after the instruments listed above. The music is by Theo and the Zydeco Patrol. You can download this song and others for free at their website.