Ernest Fruge was born in 1904 and passed away in 1975. The Church Point native learned the fiddle from an early age listening to his father Joseph and brother Lawrence playing at home and at country dances. They later formed a trio and also played with Amade Ardoin, Angelas LeJeune, and Dennis McGee.
This led to numerous recordings for the Vocalon and Brunswick labels in the early 1930's.
After World War II, while farming north of Sulphur, he played with Earl DeMary and the Musical Aces at clubs throughout Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas. He also played periodically with Joe Bonsall, Gerald Miller and Amade Breaux during his long career.
Ernest recorded "Poor Hobo" with Miller. His expertise as a "second fiddler" is lauded by many current Cajun fiddlers. He also was acclaimed for his musicianship, knowledge of Cajun tunes and his bow rocking style.
