the Jackson Five , Sly Stone and James Brown were really happening .” The influence of these genres is evident in Dopsie , Jr .’ s performances .
In 1994 , Rockin ’ Dopsie , Jr . & The Zydeco Twisters performed at the Smithsonian in Washington , D . C ., for the presentation of the late Rockin ’ Dopsie ’ s “ King of Zydeco ” crown for permanent exhibit . Rockin ’ Dopsie , Jr ., his band , and zydeco music were honored by this historic event as they had never been honored before .
Rockin ’ Dopsie , Jr . is considered to be the best rub board player in the world ; he is a charismatic and electrifying stage performer . His dancing , splits , and audience participation antics make the band ’ s performances exciting and keep listeners involved and dancing . “ Somebody SCREAM !”
Besides performing extensively on their own tours , the Zydeco Twisters have shared the stage with Tina Turner , Bonnie Raitt , BB King , The Neville Brothers , Dr . John , and Jimmy Buffett .
Rockin ’ Dopsie , Jr . & The Zydeco Twisters have performed worldwide at the most prestigious music festivals . Be sure to catch them close French Quarter Fest on Friday , April 22 on the Decatur Street Chevron Stage . He will also close Jazz Fest on Friday , April 29 on the Acura Stage . Dopsie really heats things up whenever he and the band perform . Above all else , they create a high-energy audience for a dance- ’ til-you-drop , dynamic show . It all begins when you hear , “ Ladies and Gentlemen : Rockin ’ Dopsie , Jr . & The Zydeco Twisters !”
Photograph by Michael P . Smith © The Historic New Orleans Collection , Acc . No . 2007.0103.8.33
No trip to New Orleans and our many festivals is complete without tasting and subsequently dancing to zydeco music . Get up close and personal if possible and savor watching the performers as well as the many dancers . Zydeco dancing is intensely passionate and sexy and is heralded as the “ new salsa .” Before long , you will find yourself shaking a leg then cutting a rug yourself ! It ’ s irresistible !
Dopsie ’ s youngest of eight children , Dwayne , also plays accordion and leads his own band , Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers . His band adds a bit of rhythm and blues , funk , rock and roll , reggae and pop to their performances , making them a very versatile choice . Dwayne was named “ The Hottest Accordionist ” in America for his ability to both work the crowd and pump out musical harmony in grandiose fashion . He interacts with the crowd , blurring the barrier between himself and his audience . Fans jump to their feet energized by Dwayne ’ s musical innovation , charismatic performance and sheer , raw talent . His ability to capture the imagination , heart and soul of his audience makes Dwayne one of today ’ s most dynamic performers . Catch him on May 8 closing Jazz Fest on the Fais Do Do stage ! The Hellraiser ’ s on-stage fury , also known as “ Dopsie Mania ,” is sure to make you a fan !
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