This popular music style combines French, Caribbean and blues musical styles. It is frequently played on guitar, accordion, and washboard, and originated in Louisiana. What is it called?

This energetic sound emerged from the French-speaking Black Creole communities of southwest Louisiana. Its signature sound is driven by the accordion and a unique percussion instrument, the corrugated metal vest known as a frottoir, which is played with spoons or bottle openers. Along with the guitar, these instruments create the unmistakable sound described in the clue.

The name itself is a fascinating piece of cultural history. It is believed to be a phonetic rendering of the Creole French phrase "Les haricots sont pas salés," which translates to "the snap beans aren't salty." This was a common expression for hard times, when people couldn't afford the traditional salt pork to flavor their food. The phrase appeared in the first-ever Zydeco recording, and the name stuck.

Musically, Zydeco is a rich gumbo of influences. While it shares some roots with Cajun music, it is distinguished by its strong foundation (Review) in rhythm and blues, which was incorporated by pioneers like Clifton Chenier. This blend, combined with syncopated Caribbean rhythms and traditional French folk melodies, creates a powerful, driving beat that makes it irresistible dance music.