Alton Jay Rubin, known as Rockin' Dopsie, was born in Carencro, Louisiana in 1932, in the heart of Creole French Louisiana. He grew up in the tradition of Creole music and zydeco, learning accordion and developing the high-energy performance style that would make him famous.
Dopsie brought zydeco out of the dancehalls of southwest Louisiana and onto the international stage. His band, the Twisters, were one of the most exciting live acts of their era, blending traditional Creole music with the energy of R&B and rock and roll.
He recorded prolifically, documenting the zydeco tradition with energy and fidelity. His recordings on major labels in the 1980s brought the music to a wider audience, and his performances at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival became legendary. He also collaborated with Paul Simon on the Graceland sessions.
Dopsie died in 1993, but his legacy was carried on by his son, Rockin' Dopsie Jr., who continues performing in the family tradition. His contribution to keeping the Creole music tradition alive and taking it to the world cannot be overstated.
