Biography
The Jambalaya Cajun Band is a prominent Cajun and zydeco ensemble that originated in the late 1970s in the Breaux Bridge area of Louisiana. Founded by Terry Huval and his brother Tony Huval, the band quickly became a staple of the regional music scene, known for its authentic Cajun sound and energetic performances. Over the decades, the group has played a vital role in preserving and promoting Cajun culture, performing at major festivals such as Festivals Acadiens et Creole for over 40 years. Their polished sound is a product of their long-standing presence and dedication to the genre, earning them recognition as an 'Up and Coming Band' and second place in the 'Musician du Bar' contest at Acadian Village in 1984.
Musically, the Jambalaya Cajun Band blends traditional Cajun instrumentation—featuring fiddle, accordion, and rhythm section—with zydeco influences, creating a vibrant and danceable sound. Terry Huval, a native speaker of Cajun French, is recognized as one of Cajun music's finest fiddlers and songwriters, contributing significantly to the band's repertoire and style. The group has also paid tribute to legendary Cajun musicians such as Aldus Roger and Lawrence Walker through special performances, further cementing their role as cultural ambassadors of Cajun music.
Fun Facts
- The Jambalaya Cajun Band won second place in the 'Musician du Bar' contest at Acadian Village, Lafayette, Louisiana in 1984.
- They have performed at Festivals Acadiens et Creole for over 40 years, making them one of the festival's longest-running acts.
- The band's first recording was titled 'Buggy'.
- Terry Huval, the band's leader, is also a director of technology and a native speaker of Cajun French.
Members
- Kenneth David
- Bobby Dumatrait
- Terry Huval - original
- Tony Huval
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Aldus Roger - Stylistic influence and tribute subject (Tribute shows) [1980s–present]
- Lawrence Walker - Stylistic influence and tribute subject (Tribute shows) [1980s–present]
Key Collaborators
- Terry Huval - Fiddler, vocalist, and bandleader (Jambalaya Cajun Band) [1977–present]
- Tony Huval - Drummer and founding member (Jambalaya Cajun Band) [1977–present]
- Reggie Matte - Co-leader and band member (Jambalaya Cajun Band) [1980s–present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Instrumental Collection | 1992-01-20 | Album |
| C'est Fun! | 1990 | Album |
| Lessons Learned | 1999-02-01 | Album |
| Joyeux Noël | 1992-11-06 | Album |
| Laisse les jeunes jouer | 1994-07-06 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Mamou Mardi Gras Hot Step - Instrumental (Cajun and Zydeco Mardi Gras)
- Jambalaya - Instrumental (Instrumental Collection)
- Chanson de Mardi Gras - Instrumental (Cajun and Zydeco Mardi Gras)
- Hathaway Two Step - Instrumental (Instrumental Collection)
- Mamou Hot Step - Instrumental (Instrumental Collection)
- Le chanson de Mardi Gras - Instrumental (Instrumental Collection)
- Quoi faire - Instrumental (Instrumental Collection)
- 'Tit galop pour la pointe aux pins (C'est Fun!)
- Hey Rock (C'est Fun!)
- Bon wisky (C'est Fun!)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Jambalaya cajun band has been played 4 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 21, 2025 | 12:37 | Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeerfrom Joyeux Noel | Cajun and Zydecow/ Charles Laborde or Jim Hobbs | |
| Dec 21, 2025 | 12:23 | Sur La Couverturefrom Joyeaux Noel | Cajun and Zydecow/ Charles Laborde or Jim Hobbs | |
| Dec 14, 2025 | 12:48 | Noel chez Mom et Popfrom Joyeaux Noel | Cajun and Zydecow/ Charles Laborde or Jim Hobbs | |
| Nov 23, 2025 | 12:35 | Une Mouche Dans Mon Couche couchefrom C'est Fun! | Cajun and Zydecow/ Charles Laborde or Jim Hobbs |