Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. and The Ils Sont Partis Band

Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. was born into zydeco royalty in Lafayette, Louisiana, the son of legendary Stanley “Buckwheat” Dural, Sr. Raised in the heart of Creole culture—and just doors away from zydeco icon Clifton Chenier—music surrounded him from day one.

At just 17, Buckwheat Jr. joined his father’s band, starting on rubboard before becoming a skilled multi-instrumentalist on accordion, Hammond B-3 organ, and more. Learning by ear, he eventually stepped into the spotlight as frontman of the iconic Ils Sont Partis Band, carrying forward one of zydeco’s most celebrated legacies.

Throughout his career, Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. has shared the stage with legends including Eric Clapton, Paul Simon, Willie Nelson, Mavis Staples, Buddy Guy, and Los Lobos, and appeared on national platforms like The David Letterman Show, Good Morning America, and CBS Morning News.

His accolades include: