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About the Film

Built on Zydeco is a Creole-directed documentary that celebrates the artists, legacy, and cultural impact of Zydeco music — one of Louisiana’s most powerful and enduring exports.

Filmed in Opelousas, St. Landry Parish — the capital of Zydeco — the documentary explores how this regional sound continues to define Louisiana’s identity while sustaining a multigenerational community of artists, dancers, and fans.

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Built on Zydeco: A Louisiana Music Documentary

A first look at a film documenting the artists, language, and communities behind one of Louisiana’s most influential cultural exports. From local dance floors to national and international stages, Built on Zydeco traces how Zydeco shapes place, drives tourism, and extends its impact across generations and across parish lines.

Set against the rhythms of trail rides, festivals, and family dance halls, this film follows the Creole Zydeco musicians whose sound, stories, and stages — with roots in French-speaking Louisiana — power the state’s cultural identity and tourism economy.

Built On Zydeco

Iconic Musicians

This powerful documentary follows three iconic figures in Zydeco music — Keith Frank, Terrance Simien, and Reginald “Buckwheat Jr.” Dural — alongside a rich ensemble of fellow musicians. Through immersive vérité footage, dynamic live performances, and deeply personal interviews, the film tells a compelling story of rhythm, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Creole culture.

Keith Frank

Reginald “Buckwheat Jr.” Dural

Terrance Simien

Keith Frank, with over 40 albums and unmatched staying power

Terrance Simien

Reginald “Buckwheat Jr.” Dural

Terrance Simien

Terrance Simien, two-time GRAMMY winner and global cultural ambassador

Reginald “Buckwheat Jr.” Dural

Reginald “Buckwheat Jr.” Dural, a 2024 GRAMMY winner continuing his father's legacy

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Supporting Sponsors

This film is not just about the music — it’s about the people who carry it, the culture it protects, and the communities it brings home,” said Arceneaux. “Zydeco has long sustained our region — economically, spiritually, and culturally. It’s time that story gets told from the inside.

Milton Arceneaux

Built on Zydeco – Official Teaser Featuring Terrance Simien

Get an early glimpse of Built on Zydeco, a Louisiana-made documentary in the works. Featuring Grammy-winning artist Terrance Simien, the film delves into the roots, rhythms, and real-life stories behind one of Louisiana’s most powerful cultural exports.

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Terrance Simien

Built On Zydeco - Terrance Simien Trailer

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