Our Musical Lineup

To view our 2011 Music Schedule, see our Schedule of Events page.

Here is the lineup of musicians who will perform at the 2010 Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival.




Al Berard Family Band The Berard Family Band is led by Grammy award nominee Al Berard. The band's repertoire ranges from Cajun, country and gospel, to R & B, soul, and rock-n-roll. At every performance an unmistakable blend of dynamic family harmonies, original material, and traditional South Louisiana folk roots can be heard. The band can be heard often locally performing at various venues, showcasing their wide style of music. Outstanding vocals backed by the smooth sound of guitars, fiddle, and mandolin make this combo a sure hit.

Bonsoir, Catin Bonsoir, Catin plays authentic cajun music that is energetic, passionate and heart-felt. Band members Christine Balfa Powell, Kristi Guillory, Yvette Landry, Anya Schoenegge and Jude Veillon go together like peas and carrots, beer and boudin. It happened one night in Chicot State park around a campfire. Four girls, all friends, playing music and visiting until the early morning hours. They realized that they shared the same vision that Cajun music should be unafraid and unabashed, full of energy and raw emotion. Since that night, Bonsoir, Catin has emerged as one of South Louisiana's most exciting new Cajun bands. Their repertoire ranges from songs learned from archival field recordings of non-commerically recorded home music to the music of the 1930s and 1940s like early Lawrence Walker and the Segura Brothers, all the way through the post World War II dancehall-era and into the present day. Bonsoir, Catin also enjoys writing their own style of organic traditional Cajun music that comes from their experiences as veteran Cajun musicians.

Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band One word to describe the swampdelic sounds of Chubby Carrier and Bayou Swamp Band? Fun. Pure Louisiana zydeco fun with a hot sauce chaser. The Carriers are one of the great musical families in Louisiana. There's traditional roots in Chubby's zydeco, but expands the sound for all ages. Live and in studio he's taken songs like B.B. King's "Rock Me Baby," "The Who's "Squeeze Box", and the Grateful Dead's "Fire on the Mountain" and dragged them through the swamp with beautiful results. It's adding Louisiana spice to popular tunes that help Carrier build the bridge between zydeco and the rest of the world. Mardi Gras can happen 365 days a year and you don't have to flash anything to enjoy the band (Unless you REALLY want to). Chubby Carrier and The Bayou Swamp Band is one of the most energetic groups around. An evening or an afternoon with these guys will result in a full night's sleep and a bowl of Wheaties. Prepare to be funkified, zydecofied and the pleasant victim of a Chubby party.

Corey Ledet and His Zydeco Band Corey Ledet and his Zydeco Band have been entertaining people all over the world with their contagious and uplifting Zydeco sound. Recently, in addition to many local festivals and venues, they have performed in New York, California, and across the ocean in France and Germany. Their Sound is a strong mixture of traditional Creole, Rhythm and Blues, and contemporary music. They can deliver musical satisfaction like nobody else. Corey began playing music at an early age of 10, starting on drums and then went on to master the accordion. He is influenced by the pioneers of Zydeco – Clifton Chenier, John Delafose, Boozoo Chavis and Beau Jocque. He loves the old school sounds and keeps it in his music while adding some influence from the present.

Da' Classics with Sean Vidrine & Charlo Sean Vidrine on the accordion brings the “zydecajun” style of music to the masses. With releases such as “Cajun Boy” and “Knockin on Heavens Door”, Sean Vidrine & da Classics have teamed up with renowned songwriter and musician, “Charlo”. His recordings such as “Burning Desire” and “Take Me in Your Loving Arms” have certainly gathered attention from many Louisiana musicians. Together with “da Classics”, they play a variety of Cajun, zydeco, swamp pop, and a little country as well.

Daigle – Frey Affair The names Paul Daigle and Jason Frey bring about a certain expectation when thought of. For years, these names have been synonymous with what is thought of as pure traditional Cajun music, played from the heart and carried on from years past. Now years later, the families of these two great artists have joined the mix of talent, producing a sound that is distinct yet familiar to the ears of Cajuns everywhere. These are the sons of daughters of Cajun music that portray the passing on of a culture and music of the Acadians, carried down through generations for over 200 years.

Feu Follet Welcome to the world of Feufollet, a band both deeply rooted in the francophone soil of Louisiana and pushing boldly into unexplored yet utterly natural varieties of Cajun experience. Though famous for their renditions of heartbreaking songs and rollicking tunes, the quintet breaks new ground on En Couleurs, their latest album featuring originals that draw on deep roots tempered by a cutting edge of contemporary life. Original songs flow out of the band's lives, inspired by their long-standing love of Cajun tradition and the new genre-bending indie spirit that has infused the Lafayette, Louisiana scene they call home. In the bars and clubs of Lafayette, rock, indie pop, country, and Cajun all converge, and older two-step fans often rub shoulders with brash young hipsters. This is what keeps this unique group driving into the new century of Cajun music.

Forest Huval est Les Bordels Nineteen year old Forest Huval of Cecilia is a new name in Cajun music circles and is making exciting waves. His group is known as "Les Bordels", a term common in old Cajun French society meaning "mischief". Forest is lucky to be surrounded by a group of award winning musicians. Working with a long and distinguished list of accordionist, Forest and the group lean heavily on the traditional Cajun French waltz and two step style mixed with a touch of jigs and a spice of Creole Blues. It's a combo of sounds youre sure to enjoy.

Geno Delafose & French Rockin Boogie As the son of the late influential zydeco accordionist John Delafose, Geno Delafose has continued to expand his father's 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 father's band, the "Eunice Playboys", Geno continued his father's 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.

Gerard Delafose & the Zydeco Gators In south Louisiana, the name Delafose can only bring one thing to mind... music! Today is certainly no different. Gerard Delafose & the Zydeco Gators will have you stomping your feet to a Zydeco beat. Hailing from the well known Delafose family, Gerard and his band will keep the dance floor full and the crowd energized. Drawing on influences from the legends of Zydeco to modern sounds of today, this band can often be heard around the Acadiana area and has appeared several times on the famous Rendez Vous Des Cajun radio and TV show. Gerard Delafose is keeping true to his roots as well as his name, delivering soulful music to all who want to let the good times roll, while always highlighting the importance of the culture and tradition.

High Performance Band "Sit back, turn it up, hook up the mule, cause the wagon is loaded!" Strap on your dancing shoes and get ready for the premier all-star Cajun group hailing from right here in Acadiana. 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.

Hunter Courville & Cajun Fever This band is one of the quickly rising local 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.

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 occasionally 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.

Jambalaya with D.L. Menard After over 33 years, the Jambalaya Cajun Band remains one of the favorites of many Cajun music fans. This group can often be seen on local as well as regional television promoting what is so close to all our hearts. Their recent work with the Legendary D.L. Menard on his "Happy Go Lucky" CD has garnered a Grammy nomination. D.L. Menard is the Dean of living Cajun music legends. His popular recordings have been among the most recorded and performed songs in the Cajun music repertoire. Along with Cajun legend D.L. Menard, these guys will surely keep you on the dance floor.

Jamie Bergeron & the Kickin Cajuns This group has become one of the most sought after acts playing along the Gulf Coast. On any given weekend, you can find the Kickin Cajuns performing at festivals and clubs throughout the area. With a devout fan base that is steadily growing, Jamie Bergeron and the Kickin Cajuns are drawing new fans daily to the sounds of accordion and fiddle. The bands music has recently been featured on a Discovery Channel television show, proving that you can’t keep a good thing a secret for too long.

Joe Hall & the Louisiana Cane Cutters Preserving Southwest Louisiana's lifestyle of community, music, food, art and dance are the generations of local musicians and families steeped in the traditions that came before them. Accordion player Joe Hall is no exception. While learning to play accordion at a young age, Joe visited Bois Sec Ardoin. Ardoin quickly became Joe's musical mentor and accordion teacher. By age 16, Joe formed his first band, "Stomp Down Zydeco". During this period Joe played such places as Richard's, Hamilton Club, ElSido's and Slim's Wi Ki Ki like other greats who came before him. Prominent local talent Marc Savoy, Nathan Abshire, Aldus Roger, and Boozoo Chavis influenced Joe and helped to forge the unique style of accordion playing that Joe Hall possesses today. Now living in the rural community of Arnaudville, LA, Joe Hall carries on the musical traditions of his family as traceabley far back as his great grandfather, fiddle player Jean Batiste Ned.

Keith Frank & 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 nearly 20 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.

Kevin Naquin & 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. With a new CD out titled "Cravin Cajun", the Ossun Playboys are sure to keep the dance floors full.

Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Road Runners Leroy Thomas was born in Lake Charles, Louisiana and raised in Elton Louisiana, coming from a family of zydeco musicians. His father Leo "The Bull" Thomas is the only zydeco musician to lead a zydeco band from the drums. At the age of eight Leroy decided to become a drummer like his father Leo. In his early teens with determination, imagination, and resourcefulness Leroy set his sights on playing the accordion. Leroy taught himself how to play that accordion with the same determination he had formerly brought to his drumming. At the age of 18 Leroy joined his father's band on the accordion. Leroy was proud to play his fathers signature song, "Why You Wanna Make Me Cry," which is the most frequently repeated song in zydeco for over 27 years now. For fifteen years father and son played music and toured the world together. In 1998 Leroy decided it was time to form his own band, "Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners." Today Leroy and his band have performed in over 33 states and overseas and have released eight CDs. Leroy favors what he calls "Old School Zydeco." He likes keeping the tradition of Louisiana alive and flowing

Lil' Nathan & the Zydeco Big Timers Nathan Williams Jr., known to most as Lil Nate, has followed what has become the tried and true path for Zydeco band leaders. Following in the footsteps of musicians with last names like Ardoin, Chenier, Delafose, and Frank, all got their start performing with their fathers before branching out on their own. Lil Nate began playing rubboard with his fathers band Nathan & the Zydeco Cha-Chas. He then moved to drums, then accordion, forming the accomplished musician that we know today. Having earned a degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in Jazz studies and music media, Lil Nate is a well seasoned ambassador to Zydeco  music, as well as what many up and coming young musicians can aspire to be.

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.

Nik-L-Beer Band They say the life expectancy of a cover band is 3 to 5 years...10 if your LUCKY.... Well, NIKLBEER has been real LUCKY because we just celebrated our 32nd Anniversary.... For over 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 Drivin Zydeco, Blue-Eyed Soul, Motown, Country, Old-School FUNK, Swamp PoP, Two-Steppin CAJUN, Accapella and some Mardi Gras tunes. All in the same Night!!! NIKLBEER performs regularly in Lafayette at Downtown Alive and Rhythms on the River. They can also be seen at the Atchafalaya Club in Henderson, as well as on their annual Caribbean Cruise, which is in its 5th year.

Pine Leaf Boys Louisiana's finest, four-time Grammy-Nominated, world-renown Pine Leaf Boys have made a name for presenting their own brand of Cajun music with youthful exuberance. Hailing from the southwest Louisiana, the Pine Leaf Boys, known for their wild shows and thoughtful arrangements, have breathed new life into Cajun music, reviving ancient songs and bringing them to the bandstand. Being described in the New York Times as, "... the link that connects the young and the old generations," and, "the best new, energetic, and fun Cajun band in a very long time," the Pine Leaf Boys play the old fashion dance hall standards while making a priority to bring many of the more obscure songs of past masters into their repertoire and play them with gusto.

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. 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.

Roddie Romero & the Hub City All-Stars Hub City All Stars is exactly what this band is….unmatched in talent and originality. They live to play the next note, get the crowd going, and hurl traditional zydeco into the future and have fun doing it. Roddie Romero & the Hub City All Stars are sure to pack the dance floor with their unmatched blend of South Louisiana rhythm and soul. American music IS Roddie Romero & the Hub City All Stars – born out of the delta dirt – and rising high off of the levee of traditionalism into the future of Louisiana music.

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 If you want to party and have a good time, this is the band that will make it happen. This band was formed in 2004 and has currently released its 7th CD entitled "Old School". This CD features songs from the 1950's and 60's, incorporating a unique style of music only performed by the Kingpins. The different styles of influence create a unique form of party and good time music that stems from both vintage and modern styles of local and national music, mixed with Cajun and Zydeco accordion.

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 many others,she is also 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!