Our Musical Lineup

To view our 2012 Music Schedule, see our Schedule of Events page.

Here is the lineup of musicians who will perform at the 2012 Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival.




Bonne Chance Bonne Chance is a traditional Cajun band whose music is presented in such a way that is most suitable for Cajun dancing. Each of the bands musicians express their personal style and emotion, and the result is an exciting snapshot in time between the band and the audience. The band has played venues and festivals around Southwest Louisiana, as well as outside the state.

Cameron Dupuy and the Cajun Troubadours After spending several years as a guitarist, Cameron Dupuy started playing the Cajun accordion at the age of eleven. After a breakout performance at the Liberty Theater in April of 2010  which led to a standing ovation, Cameron and his band "The Cajun Troubadours" were invited to Festival Acadiens et Creoles by Dr. Barry Ancelet. Born and raised in Kenner, LA, a suburb of New Orleans, Cameron became infatuated with the sounds of Cajun music at an early age, which is appropriate for the son of Cajun musician, Michael Dupuy. His father often took him to gigs where Cameron would always be on stage strumming a guitar, banging on spoons, or any thing he could get his hands on. As a result of Hurricane Katrina, Cameron was exposed to Cajun music a little more after taking refugee in Lafayette, LA. On the last day of the evacuation, as his family and him were preparing dinner, Cameron finally convinced "Mr. Rick" to let him play the accordion sitting on the shelf. Mr. Rick was not eager since it was used to record a Grammy winning CD by Jimmy Breaux, but he decided to let him. He was hooked. Following his return to Kenner, he did not receive an accordion but his first guitar. It was his constant hearing of Cajun music that made him want to get his father's accordion fixed. From there, the accordion was fixed in the early summer of 2008. Cameron was ten. He played around but did not take it serious until months later. He rapidly learned the songs of his idols, Marc Savoy and Aldus Roger and began playing professionally with his band "Cameron Dupuy and The Cajun Troubadours" along with his father, Michael Dupuy.

Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band If you haven’t experienced the high energy, swamp funky zydeco sound of Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, it is high time that you join the legions of fans that have. Once the accordion-playing virtuoso grabs the mic and takes to the stage with his band mates, audiences are treated to a show like no other. Chubby’s sound is infectious – a concoction of blues, 70s funk, rock and roll, and good-ole zydeco flavor – and makes even the most timid individuals get their feet a movin’. Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band are turning heads around the world and bringing Louisiana flavor to the masses. The funky zydeco band’s latest release, “Zydeco Junkie,” earned one of the highest musical accolades when it was named Best Zydeco or Cajun Album during the 53rd annual Grammy Awards celebration in February.

Corey Ledet and His Zydeco Band This Houston native has been performing nationally and internationally for the past 9 years, spreading his style of Zydeco that includes influences from Cajun, Creole, Jazz, Blues, Soul, Country, Funk and Alternative Rock music. He currently has 6 recordings to his credit, along with appearing as special guest on 5 other recordings. At the start of 2012, his music also landed in a worldwide commercial for Tabasco, promoting McIlhenny Companys new Buffalo Sauce. In 2007, he won an award as the “Best New Zydeco Artist” and just last year, he won the award for “Best Non-European Zydeco Band” at the 8th Annual European Cajun and Zydeco Awards. This band enjoys bringing their beautiful Creole culture all over the world and has made many friends along the way. Its time to get your ears ready to take in the unique sounds of Zydeco Pioneer ----- Cory Ledet and His Zydeco Band. Allons Danser!!

Damon Troy & Final Five Damon Troy is an established artist who has four CD’s released to date, the fifth to be released upon completion. Damon began his dream in music at the tender age of 7yrs old and has many success' under his belt including but not limited to hitting the R & R Charts with his recording hit "Rest Your Love" off the album What's Next . Damon currently plays seven instruments, Drums, Guitar, Bass, Fiddle, Piano, Steel Guitar, & the Accordion, which is his primary. His talent & achievements have taken him all over the world creating life long memories that he will forever hold dear. Damon has a new band name, new management, new band members & a new outlook on life. Damon is ready to continue his love for music and live performances for the communities that have been so supportive of him throughout the years

Forest Huval est Les Bordels Forest Brady Huval is a 20 year old native of Cecilia, Louisiana. He is currently a junior at University of Louisiana majoring in Biology when he is not playing Cajun music. Forest has been making his own way in Cajun music with the help of many musicians such as Al Berard, Kyle Hebert, and many other legends. You can find Forest and his band playing at many local venues throughout the area, all while working to keep the Cajun heritage alive and strong.

Geno Delafose and French Rockin Boogie As the son of the late influential zydeco accordionist John Delafose, Geno Delafose has continued to expand his fathers musical legacy. Picking up an instrument at only age seven, Geno is no newcomer to the zydeco world.  Together with his band ” French Rockin Boogie”, Delafose has blended the traditional sounds of zydeco with the excitement of modern dance music. Growing up on stage playing in his fathers band, the “Eunice Playboys”, Geno continued his fathers legacy after his passing in 1994.” French Rockin Boogie” has become known throughout the world, and can often be found playing many of the old dancehalls that pioneers before them have played, forging the way for todays Cajun and creole musicians.   Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome Geno Delafose & French Rockin Boogie.

Gregg Martinez and the Delta Kings Greg Martinez is South Louisiana’s premier Blues, R&B, and Swamp Pop artist. He has released nine albums, and the regional hit, Back to the Bayou in 2006. In addition to extensive performances throughout Louisiana, Gregg has toured across the U.S. and around the world. He was recently nominated for Best Male Vocalist by OFFBEAT magazine, and is backed by his band, The Delta Kings. Gregg has shared the stage with artists such as Stevie Wonder, Percy Sledge, and Patti Labelle. The late Ed Bradley of TV’s 60 Minutes called Gregg Martinez “one of America’s greatest hidden treasures”.

High Performance Strap on your dancing shoes and get ready for the latest all-star Cajun group to come out of south LA. Reminiscent of the smooth, yet powerful honky-tonk dancehall sounds of classic Belton Richard, its pedal to the metal from the first note. Loaded with energy and a repertoire of classic dancehall tunes from times past, this group is full of musical surprises and guarantees to keep you rockin’ all night. The classic sounds of fiddles and accordion, mixed with steel guitar will get you movin’ and is certain to keep you on your toes.

Horace Trahan and the  Ossun Express Horace Trahan, the maker of the hit song, “That Butt Thing,” recently released his new hit album entitled Keep Walking. A world renowned Cajun and Zydeco artist for over 18 years, Horace’s new release has become one of the most versatile and captivating Cajun and Zydeco albums of the year. Horace Trahan has never been a stranger to musically “raising the bar” and creatively thinking outside the box. The Keep Walking album cover is ablend of the Louisiana Acadian and Creole flags, embracing the heart of Louisiana at the center. Notably and culturally speaking, it is the first of its nature. The music fearlessness and heartfelt maturity Trahan expresses on the record is undeniably felt on each track.

Huval Family Band This multi talented group of siblings hailing from the Town of  Breaux Bridge has been playing music for years, becoming a well known and respected hometown band. From a family of 14 children, this group of musicians has a biological connection that drives the solid rhythm of the Huval Family Band. While several of the members play in other bands, they all manage to make time to come together  and perform as the popular family band that keeps the crowds always coming back for more. Playing traditional Cajun standards with a unique twist, the Huvals will always have a good time, whether performing on stage or just dancing among the crowd to another great local band.

Hunter Courville and Cajun Fever This band is one of the quickly rising acts on the music scene. Youthful and energetic, Hunter Courville began learning the accordion at the age of thirteen and has since become a very talented musician. He has played with many bands, but is fulfilling one of his many dreams, which is keeping the Cajun culture alive. When he is not riding horses, spending time with family, or playing Cajun music, he can be found singing at his local church on Sundays. Hunters future plans of a successful music career are sure to happen, given the drive of this talented Cajun group.

Jambalaya Cajun Band with D.L. Menard With the majority of their members from Breaux Bridge, The Jambalaya Cajun Band has been part of the Crawfish Festival for decades, dating back to the 1970’s. They have been awarded and recognized in many ways, yet they remain true to their French Cajun roots. D.L. Menard is the elder statesman of Cajun Music. He has traveled to over 38 countries as one of the first and most famous ambassadors of our culture. His legendary song “The Back Door” is the most re-recorded song in Cajun history and is in the repertoire of nearly every Cajun and Zydeco band. A two time Grammy award nominee, he is also a member of the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame.

Keith Frank and the Soileau Zydeco Band KEITH FRANK literally has zydeco flowing through his blood.  Hailing from a family of Creole musicians with a lineage going back to the 19th century, there was little doubt about path he would eventually follow.  His innate musical talent, combined with the lessons of his father, uncle, and the legends of Zydeco who preceded him, have all come together to help him become one of the preeminent musicians in the genre today. THE SOILEAU ZYDECO BAND has long been known as one of the premier bands in Zydeco.  Known for their tight rhythms and seamless sound, the band has been wowing crowds for 18 years.  Able to switch from traditional to contemporary Zydeco easily, the band is also known for their R&B rhythms and their Zydeco-ized covers of the hits of the day. Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome Keith Frank & the Soileau Zydeco Band.

Kevin Naquin and the Ossun Playboys Kevin Naquin & the Ossun Playboys is one of the hottest Cajun bands to ever come out of the swamps. The band consists of some of the most talented young musicians from south Louisiana whose fire and drive keep the dance floor packed. This group has been nominated for and won numerous CFMA awards, including accordionist of the year and fiddler of the year. Coming from a family rich in musical tradition, Naquin portrays In his music the influence that his elders have had on him, which is sure to influence those who come after him.

Kira Viator and Bayou Beat As a native of Crowley, Kira began her musical career at the age of four when she received an accordion as a gift. By the time she was seven, she was playing publicly. At age nine, she began to learn the fiddle and two years later, the piano. Her first recording was captured at the age of nine. Kira and her band have performed at CODOFIL events, the Mardi Gras Festival in Branson, and festivals and events throughout Acadiana. The bands new CD illustrates their respect for their music heritage and for the Cajun country way of life.

Lil’ Nathan & the Zydeco Big Timers Nathan Williams Jr.,  who released his first CD at the age of 14, has matured into a highly accomplished musician. Like a lot of Zydeco performers, he grew up playing music, surrounded by a musical family. As the son of Nathan Williams Sr., leader of the Zydeco Cha Chas, and with connections through his family to many musicians in the Zydeco community, Lil Nathan was born with musical talent and nourished in a musical environment throughout his childhood. He has now moved beyond his Zydeco upbringing to expand his knowledge at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he is majoring in jazz studies and music media. Interviewed for Herman Fuselier’s liner notes to his 2007 CD, Doin’ It Big Time, Lil Nathan explains that in college he has “been exposed to chord progressions and different types of music that have influenced me in a lot of ways. I’m open-minded. I’ll listen to anything and make it work. These words sum up the attitude of Lil Nathan, whos musical career will continue to grow over years to come. Please welcome Lil Nate & the Zydeco Big Timers.

Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha Chas Nathan Williams plays zydeco, the fast and furious accordion-driven dance music of the Creole people of South Louisiana, a relatively modern style that emerged after the Second World War. With its trademark rubboard percussion, electric guitars and R&B influences, zydeco is distinct from the fiddle-driven music of neighboring Cajuns. Zydeco is now a familiar sound to many, heard in commercials for mainstream companies such as Burger King and Toyota, and there are pockets of devoted zydeco dancers throughout the world. Yet, after its flush of national popularity in the late 1980s, which saw soaring sales of both zydeco and Cajun CDs, zydeco has in many ways faded from popular consciousness, retreating to the South Louisiana dance halls and festival gigs that sustained it all along. The music of Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas is the expression of a remarkable South Louisiana family, consisting of various family members and friends, all with a deep roots in Zydeco.

Nik-L-Beer They say that a cover bands life expectancy is 3 to 5 years. Maybe 10 years if they’re lucky. NiklBeer has been real lucky, because they recently celebrated their 32nd anniversary. For the past 32 years, NIKLBEER has been one of South Louisiana's favorite party bands. Drawing on diverse musical experiences, these guys will belt out Golden Oldies, Hard-Driving Zydeco, Blue-Eyed Soul, Motown, Country, 80's Funk, Swamp Pop, Two-Steppin Cajun, Accapella and Mardi Gras tunes. NiklBeer has shared the stage with entertainers such as Sara Evans, Trace Adkins, and Lonestar just to name a few. Playing a large array of instruments, the NiklBeer Band is one of south Louisiana’s most entertaining groups, continuing to play at several local venues as well as throughout the South

Ray Abshire Ray Abshire is one of Cajun Music's purist accordionists and vocalists and a living link to its very roots. A member of one of Louisiana's legendary musical families, Ray grew up surrounded by Cajun Music's pioneer artists. He has performed with most all of the old masters whose recordings now form the texts for students of today. Ray left the bandstand in 1975 while accordionist for the legendary "Balfa Brothers Band" and helping to open windows for Cajun Music in the nation's musical consciousness. Abshire's return to the stage has been hailed by both critics and fans alike. He is once again at the forefront and sharing his knowledge and skills with a new generation. Recognized as a master musician, and one of the resurgence leaders of Cajun Music, Ray now enjoys conducting workshops, teaching at music camps and performing at major festivals both nationally and abroad. Ray's music is unfiltered and has its own wholesome electricity. He plays it the way it was handed down to him and understands the importance of preserving the authenticity of one of this nation's great "folk" musics. Each and every time you attend a Ray Abshire performance, you are guaranteed the "real deal!"

Nathan Williams & the Zydeco Cha Chas Nathan Williams plays zydeco, the fast and furious accordion-driven dance music of the Creole people of South Louisiana, a relatively modern style that emerged after the Second World War. With its trademark rubboard percussion, electric guitars and R&B influences, zydeco is distinct from the fiddle-driven music of neighboring Cajuns. Going strong since 1985, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas have toured overseas, performed at the Grand Ole Opry, and continue to tour the world with their show stopping brand of Zydeco. Always keeping a busy tour schedule, the band still loves to come home and play for those who have been Zydeco fans before Zydeco was cool.

Reflx In 1979, just out of high school, four friends formed a rock band called “Reflx”. The band was short lived, lasting about 3 years, playing local south Louisiana clubs. 30 years later, they have reformed their love for the old rock classics. With the addition of brandy Aube’ on lead vocals, the band is having a great time... sounding better than ever.

Robert Jardell and Pure Cajun Robert Jardell has been playing the accordion since the age of 15. He has traveled throughout the U.S. and Europe, and has many CMFA awards over the years. Robert and his band are very dedicated to Cajun culture, doing their part to be ambassadors of their heritage. The six Cajun men that comprise this band  make it Pure Cajun, who can be seen performing at different festivals and venues.

Roddie Romero and the Hub City All Stars Roddie Romero and the Hub City All Stars are a renowned, Grammy nominated Louisiana band who have been performing worldwide at the most prestigious festivals and venues for over 20 years. This premier Louisiana band is celebrated not only for their authenticity when performing or recording traditional Cajun and Creole music indigenous to South Louisiana, but also for their original songwriting which stays true to Louisiana inspirations. They have recently garnered a GRAMMY nomination for their double record, “The La Louisianne Sessions”. They are notorious "Louisiana-Roots-Rockers" who put on an energetic show which is bound to make everyone get up and dance! Behind Roddie's fiery vocals, pumping accordion and slide guitar mastery lies the Louisiana roots sound of Roddie Romero & the Hub City All Stars. You will not only experience great, original music at a Hub City All Stars' concert, but you'll witness one of the tightest bands from the swamps of Louisiana put on an energetic and soulful show. American music is Roddie Romero & the Hub City All Stars — born out of the Delta dirt — rising high off the levee of traditionalism and into the future of Louisiana Music.

Ryan Brunet and the Malfecteurs One of Cajun Country’s most vibrant communities dominates the southern stretch of Louisiana’s longest highway, LA HWY 1. Houses and businesses straddle the road between the narrow banks of the Bayou Lafourche and brackish marsh, from Raceland to Grand Isle, where Louisiana’s coast eventually gives way to the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a place where town names describe the area’s distinctive terrain; La Rose, Golden Meadow, Cut Off.  It’s the physical and cultural landscape that produce Les Malfecteurs, translated, (The Outlaws).  Their powerful brand of Cajun honky tonk is more than a simple product of their home parish. The group builds upon the legacy of Nathan Abshire while infusing the country music currents so prevalent in the Lafourche region. Following accordionist Ryan Brunet’s lead, Les Malfecteurs offer the promise of things to come. Their emotive bandleader’s vocals, a driving rhythm section, and pining steel guitar are the very reason this band will be a powerful creative force not only in south Louisiana, but across the country.

Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys began over twenty years ago with a reputation for excellence. Their stunningly clean and cohesive performance of Cajun French music from the backwaters of Southwest Louisiana propelled them into the world music limelight early on, and by their third release had garnered them a Grammy nomination in the worldwide field of traditional folk music, another in 2004, and then another in 2009.From the day they started, they have gone from strength to strength. Never before in Cajun music has a comparable wealth of skills been brought to the same table. When all that heart and all that skill focus on the revelry of a hot two-step, then turn on a dime and deliver an a cappella ballad, then play something that sounds like Howlin' Wolf fell in lust with a Creole girl, you've found the most Cajun music you can find in any one spot. You've found Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys.

Travis Matte & the Kingpins Known as a Louisiana band with many different flairs, this band is upbeat and a “party crowd” pleaser! Louisiana and abroad, people can’t get enough of the high energy this band demonstrates on stage. With many original favorites along with all those beloved “old school” tunes, Travis Matte and the Kingpins are sure to entertain and delight all of you music lovers or anyone looking to have a good time tonight at the world famous Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival!

Warren Storm – Willie T and Cypress The Cypress Band featuring Warren Storm and Willie T originated in 1980. Although the band broke up in 1984, Warren and Willie T continued working together as guests with other bands. In 2004 they decided to reform the Cypress Band and began another era of their music. Willie T has demonstrated that his love for music should be played from the heart and soul. Together, these 2 fine musicians, who compliment each other, give their all in entertaining audiences throughout the south. Warren and Willie T couldn’t do it without the the other 4 band members working hard to make them sound great. The Cypress Band has made a strong comeback, thanks to the enthusiasm of fans all over. Today, the Cypress Band is still a favorite among Louisiana fans. Warren Storms dedication to playing music all his life can be heard in each and every performance. The saying you’re not getting older, you’re getting better can be seen and heard when this artists is on the stage. If you haven’t seen him lately, then you are missing a good show. Willie T is one of south Louisiana’s finest and most respected musicians who has entertained audiences for over 35 years.

Yvette Landry Since her appearance on the south Louisiana music scene a few short years ago, Yvette has had such an enchanted musical career that the announcement of her debut album, comprised of sixteen original songs, is not surprising. From touring the world as a multi-instrumentalist, to performing with the likes of Balfa Toujours, Red Stick Ramblers, and the Pine Leaf Boys, and being a founding member of the all-woman Cajun super-group BonSoir Catin, Yvette has made a name for herself as a powerful accompanist. Now taking center stage, backed by members of The Red Stick Ramblers, River Road, The Wilders and more, be prepared to be blown away yet again by this beautiful songsmith. Her debut album, "Should Have Known", is comprised of homemade honky-tonk that’ll knock you off your boots!