Skip to main content Skip to main content

Effingham Magazine

Zydeco Dance Party: Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas

Savannah Music Festival 2025

For more than three decades, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas have toured extensively, performing everywhere from local Louisiana spots to international stages, with an ensemble that has always been a family affair. Bandleader Nathan Williams started his professional music career at 21, recording singles for his brother’s El Sid label. Sid also opened a venue in Lafayette, El-Sid-O’s, where Nathan became a staple performer on Friday nights. Williams’ big break came when Buckwheat Zydeco recommended him to Rounder Records, which was searching for an accordionist after Buckwheat left the label for Island Records. Nathan auditioned and secured a recording contract, and in 1985, he founded Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, inspired by a Chenier instrumental. The band debuted at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 1988. Their music blends zydeco, jazz, blues, and R&B, with most of the band’s original songs penned by Williams.

Date & Time

April 5, 2025

7:30PM - 8:50PM

Location

Ships of the Sea - 41 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA, 31401 41 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Savannah 31401 GA US

Get Directions