Louisiana’s Buddy Guy, Jon Cleary Win Grammys

To borrow a phrase, Louisiana is a place where music grows up from the ground. Two Louisiana musicians have just been honored with Grammy awards. Lettsworth native Buddy Guy, and English transplant Jon Cleary were presented with their trophies in the pre-telecast portion of the 58th annual Grammy awards, according to nola.com. Cleary, who now makes his home in New Orleans, was presented the award for Best Regional Roots Music Album. for his latest realease "GoGo Juice." This is Cleary's first Grammy.

"I really want to thank that large family of New Orleans musicians, the giants that came before us on whose shoulders we're standing, especially to Allen Toussaint, who did the horn arrangements on this album and who's very sorely missed. ... Thank you all very much. Cheers!"  - Jon Cleary

Buddy Guy was awarded Best Blues Album for his "Born to Play Guitar." He had this to say upon receiving his award,  "At least I know the blues is not dead yet," Guy said. "I want to thank my record company for putting up with me because I don't think blues records is being recognized that much anymore. ... I used to be able to drive down the streets and hear Muddy Waters once or twice a week, but I didn't give up."

I've had the pleasure of seeing each of them perform several times over the years, including performances at Lafayette's Festival International de Louisiane, and Downtown Alive. If you've never caught their shows, I highly recommend it. If you have, you know...