Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. and The Ils Sont Partis Band
Zydeco music legend! Great dance band.
Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. plays Zydeco, Blues, Roots Music
Notable Awards: 2 Grammy Awards, 1 Emmy Award, multiple Grammy nominations
Early Life and Musical Roots
Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. was born into a musical family in Lafayette, Louisiana, a city deeply rooted in the sounds of zydeco and Creole culture. His father, Stanley “Buckwheat” Dural, Sr., was a legendary figure in zydeco music, and Buckwheat, Jr. was immersed in music from a young age. Growing up just doors away from zydeco icon Clifton Chenier, Buckwheat Jr. was surrounded by the vibrant rhythms and melodies that defined Louisiana's cultural landscape.
At just 17, Buckwheat, Jr. began his musical journey by joining his father’s band, initially playing the rubboard, a signature instrument in zydeco music. His early training was informal, as he learned by ear, much like his father had done. Over time, Buckwheat, Jr. expanded his musical talents, becoming a multi-instrumentalist who played the Hammond B-3 organ, accordion, and other instruments. He eventually stepped into the role of frontman for the Ils Sont Partis Band, a group founded by his father and now synonymous with the zydeco genre.
A Legendary Career in the Making
Buckwheat Zydeco Jr.'s career has been marked by significant milestones, both alongside his father and as a solo artist. He shared the stage with some of the most renowned figures in music, including Eric Clapton, Paul Simon, Willie Nelson, Mavis Staples, Albert Collins, Buddy Guy, Dwight Yoakam, and Los Lobos, to name a few. These collaborations helped him hone his craft and shape a unique musical voice that blends zydeco, blues, and rock influences.
Playing with his father have earned them accolades, playing prestigious events such as two inaugural balls in honor of U.S. presidents. His television appearances include major shows like The David Letterman Show, CBS Morning News, and Good Morning America, showcasing his dynamic stage presence to a global audience.
Awards and Recognition
Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. and The Ils Sont Partis Band has earned numerous prestigious awards and nominations:
• 2024: Winner, Best Regional Roots Music Album – New Beginnings (66th Annual GRAMMY Awards)
• 2024: Winner, two Best of The Beat Music Awards for Best Zydeco Artist and Best Zydeco Album.
• 2024: got inducted at the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame.
• Additionally, his dad and The Ils Sont Partis Band have received four Grammy nominations across a range of categories:
• 1987: Nominee, Best Contemporary Blues Recording – On A Night Like This
• 1986: Nominee, Best Traditional Folk Recording – Waitin' For My Ya Ya
• 1985: Nominee, Best Ethnic or Traditional Folk Recording – Turning Point
• 1984: Nominee, Best Ethnic or Traditional Folk Recording – 100% Fortified Zydeco
• And
• 2009: Winner, Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album – Lay Your Burden Down (52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards)
• Emmy Award for his musical contributions to the CBS TV movie Pistol Pete: The Life and Times of Pete Maravich.
His dedication to preserving and evolving zydeco music ensures that the genre continues to thrive, captivating audiences both young and old.
Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at door.
Must be 21 unless accompanied by a parent.
Tickets and select table reservations at link.
Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. will play two big sets!
The Village Nightclub
