Newman was a native of Louisiana and was born in the town of Mamou in 1927. As a kid he was a fan of Jimmie Rodgers, and he later formed his own band. His local success earned him a spot as a member of the famed Louisiana Hayride, one of country music's most popular and prestigious radio shows, second only to the Opry. Performers on the Hayride included Hank Williams, Kitty Wells, Webb Pierce and Elvis Presley.

Newman eventually earned songwriting contract with Acuff-Rose Music and a recording contract with Dot Records. He recorded country singles like "A Fallen Star" and "Cry, Cry, Darling," but he became best known for mixing country and Cajun influences on songs such as "Diggy Liggy Lo," "Bayou Talk" and "Alligator Man." The latter became his nickname and theme song.