Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers Perform at Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival
July 1st 2023
Rita Davidson Barnea, Editor Accordion USA News
“Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers” performed at the Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival, held in Winthrop, Washington, USA from July 19th to 21st, 2024.
Their newest album “Now is the Time” (picture right) was released on June 21st, 2024 in a “vibrant collection of tracks that underscores Dopsie’s dynamic energy and innovative approach to traditional Zydeco music. It showcases Dwayne Dopsie’s mastery of the accordion and his ability to blend classic Zydeco rhythms with modern influences. The album features 12 original tracks that take listeners on a musical journey through the heart of Louisiana, with infectious grooves, soulful melodies, and Dopsie’s signature electrifying performance.”
2024 Grammy Award nominee and “America’s Hottest Accordion” winner, Dwayne Dopsie plays high-energy zydeco that keeps you wanting more. Dwayne hails from one of the most influential Zydeco families in the world. Although inspired by tradition, he has developed his own style that defies existing stereotypes and blazes a refreshingly distinct path for 21st century Zydeco music.
Dwayne attributes his musical abilities to his father, Rockin’ Dopsie, Sr., a pioneer of Zydeco music. 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.” This singer/songwriter and accordionist has performed in 40 countries and also in hundreds of cities across the United States, Europe, Brazil, Panama and Canada since debuting his band at age 19.