“America’s Hottest Accordion” winner, Dwayne Dopsie plays a unique, high energy style of zydeco. Dwayne hails from one of the most influential Zydeco families in the world. Although inspired by tradition, he has developed his own high energy style that defies existing stereotypes and blazes a refreshingly distinct path for 21st century Zydeco music. This singer/songwriter and accordionist has performed all over the world since debuting his band, Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers, at age 19.
Dwayne, born March 3, 1979 in Lafayette, Louisiana, was the last of eight children. Dwayne attributes his musical ablilities to his father, Rockin' Dopise, Sr., a pioneer of Zydeco music. As a small child, Dwayne was interested in the washboard, but quickly realized he had incredible talent with an accordion. He has played the accordion since age seven and states, "This is my calling - Zydeco music is in my blood and it is my heart and soul." As a tribute to his late father, the most influential person in his life, Dwayne plans to record an album of his Dad's greatest Zydeco hits.
Dwayne Dopsie and his Hellraisers have performed in 20 different countries and in hundreds of cities Bcause of the energy and power of the music they play, he has been nominated for a Grammy award in 2007, and also nominated for the last 7 years for best accordion and artist from Off Beat Magazine Awards . September 2016, He was on "Louisiana Rising" with Harry Connick Jr and Randy Jackson, performing their song for the flood victims called "Rollercoaster" which is one of the songs on their new cd, soon to be released in 2017 .
"Dwayne takes the instruments and traditions of zydeco to new levels infusing blues, soul and funk with a driving rub-board rhythm. The Zydeco Hellraisers’ sound is relentless, pulsating and funky, easily appealing to fans of all genres.” – Toledo City Paper
He has no competition in his genres, he's the Jimmy Hendrix of the accordion .-
Rolling Stone magazine
The Zydeco Hellraisers:
Paul Lafleur ~ Washboard
Percy Walker Jr.~ Drums
Dion Pierre ~ Bass Guitar
Brandon David ~ Guitar
Tim McFatter ~ Sax
NOTE: We do not take reservations on Friday. Seating is first come/first serve. Please arrive after 8pm for the 9pm show.
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