Waco, Texas • Est. 1950s

Carrying on a Blues Legacy

For 50+ years, the Ballou family has been at the heart of Texas blues and zydeco. From backing BB King to headlining New Orleans Jazz Fest, we're keeping the rhythm alive.

🎸 Legacy Rhythm Festival Book The Band Our Story

The Ballou Family Sound

Classie Ballou Sr. started in southwest Louisiana's rock 'n' roll and zydeco scene in the 1950s. He played on what many believe to be the first zydeco recording, 1954's "Paper In My Shoe" with Boozoo Chavis.

As part of the house band at Walker's Auditorium, Classie backed blues legends and toured with icons. That legacy now lives on through his daughter CaCean and The Dirty Crawfish Band.

BB King Freddie King Little Richard Ike & Tina Turner Big Joe Turner Boozoo Chavis
50+ Years of Music
4 Generations
1954 First Recording

Three Pillars of Legacy

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Music & Events

Live performances by CaCean Ballou and The Dirty Crawfish Band. Blues, zydeco, and the authentic Ballou family sound that's rocked Central Texas for decades.

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Ministry

Church of the Wilderness leadership ministry. Spiritual guidance rooted in community, carrying forward a tradition of faith that has always been part of the Ballou story.

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Wine Collection

The Legacy Wine Collection. Curated selections that pair perfectly with good music and good company, honoring the finer things that make life worth celebrating.

The Journey

1954
First Recording
Classie Ballou plays on what many believe to be the first zydeco recording: "Paper In My Shoe" with Boozoo Chavis.
1960s-70s
Walker's Auditorium Era
Part of the legendary house band at Walker's Auditorium, backing blues icons and touring with legends like BB King, Ike & Tina Turner.
1980s-2000s
Mentoring the Next Generation
Classie passes down his craft to his daughter CaCean and other family members, ensuring the blues lives on.
2022+
The Legacy Continues
CaCean and The Dirty Crawfish Band carry forward 50+ years of blues and zydeco, keeping Classie's legacy alive.

Book The Dirty Crawfish Band

Interested in bringing authentic blues and zydeco to your event? Get in touch.

"You need to keep the legacy going."

— Classie Ballou Sr. (1938-2022)