Buckwheat Zydeco

Accordionist Stanley "Buckwheat" Dural was a key figure in contemporary zydeco music, blending traditional and modern elements in his urbanized sound. Born in Lafayette, Louisiana in 1947, Dural's musical journey began at a young age, eventually leading him to form Buckwheat Zydeco and gain mainstream success with hits like On a Night Like This. Despite label changes and commercial ups and downs, Dural's live performances remained popular until his passing in 2016 at the age of 68. His lasting impact on zydeco music is celebrated in albums like Jackpot! and Lay Your Burden Down.

Transitioning from a funk band leader to a zydeco icon, Stanley "Buckwheat" Dural's career was marked by collaborations with legends like Clifton Chenier and Grammy-nominated albums like Turning Point. Breaking barriers as the first zydeco act signed to a major label, Island Records, in 1986, Buckwheat Zydeco's music reached a wider audience, solidifying their place in music history. Despite challenges in the industry, Dural's dedication to his craft and energetic live performances ensured his legacy lived on, making him a beloved figure in the zydeco community.