Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters have captured the spirit of their music with their latest release, the video for “Ooh Woo Woo (Please Don’t Leave Me).” A zydeco twist on a Fats Domino classic, its combination of bluesy grooves and raw energy showcases the exuberant chemistry between the band members. The video takes you into the studio with Rockin’ Dopsie Jr, his brothers, and co-producer Randall Poster.
Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. truly stands out by honoring his father’s legacy. His ability to blend traditional elements with contemporary sounds makes his work accessible and exciting for both devoted fans and those just discovering the genre.
More Fun With Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. & The Zydeco Twisters contains 12 new recordings. With a lineup of talented musicians like the Dopsies, who have shared the stage with icons from Beyoncé to Bob Dylan, the album is bound to be a dynamic mix of influences.
The involvement of GRAMMY winners Randall Poster and Stewart Lerman adds another layer of expertise with their backgrounds in film and television. Their resumés include extensive film and television credentials including Vinyl and Boardwalk Empire. Poster – who has worked closely with directors including Wes Anderson and Martin Scorsese – first encountered zydeco when producing a collaborative song by Buckwheat Zydeco and Yo La Tengo for the 2007 film I’m Not There. Last year, Poster curated the music for the soundtrack of a remake of Roadhouse. In the original movie from 1989, the late blues guitarist Jeff Healey provided all of the music.
Doug Liman’s vision for the film, combined with Randall Poster’s keen ear for talent, highlights Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. dynamic moves as a performer reminiscent of James Brown. Their collaboration resulted in both live performances for the film and this new album, with Poster proclaiming: “I think everyone should listen to some zydeco every single day, and you will live a happier life!”
The alias Rockin’ Dopsie (pronounced Doopsie) was first used by accordionist Alton Rubin (1932-1993), a towering figure who passed the torch and moniker to his son, David Rubin, who now fronts The Zydeco Twisters. David also plays the rub-board, or frottoir – a steel, ribbed board played with metal keys. An instrument unique to zydeco, it provides a rhythm foundation and is often worn as a vest. He is joined by his brothers, Anthony (accordion) and Tiger (drums).
Brother Dwayne, another celebrated Dopsie, and accordionist (who just performed with the Rolling Stones at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival), also guests on two songs: “Dopsie’s Boogie” and “My Little Girl.” The band includes harmonica player Patrick Williams, veteran Lee Allen Zeno, one of South Louisiana’s most in-demand bass players, as well as keyboardist Keith Vinet on Hammond B-3 and saxophonist Julius Handy.
Additional special guests include lead guitarist David Mansfield (who has played with Dylan, Johnny Cash, Lucinda Williams and many others).
