Johnny Sonnier refers to Cajun music as his blessing. Originals and covers that Sonnier put his own stamp on decades ago are some of the most requested on Cajun radio in southwest Louisiana.

For 27 years, Sonnier was a dancehall king, often playing seven nights a week. His work put him in the Cajun French Music Association’s Hall of Fame in 2017.

Sonnier credits a knack for knowing what Cajun music fans like. “I was blessed with being able to distinguish how to put songs together and wh...