Emile spent a decade living and working in New Orleans, performing with some of the world’s top musicians. He played on Bourbon Street with his Godfather, Harold Dejan, and worked with Fats Domino’s band when they were off the road. Emile frequently performed at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and still does today. After some time, he found himself back in Europe, wondering, “What’s next?”
The answer came during a tour while crossing a Swiss mountain with trumpeter Paul Bonner, who mentioned forming a band in London playing contemporary New Orleans-style music. A month later, the band was born.
They started performing in London but felt something was missing, so Emile convinced his brother Ben, a talented vocalist and musician, to join. Ben’s rhythm and blues background added fresh melodies and lyrics to the New Orleans rhythms, shaping the band’s unique sound. Together, they blended the rich heritage of New Orleans music with the influences of their London life.
They began performing songs by their favorite artists like Ray Charles, Chuck Berry, and Fats Domino, while incorporating more original songs, primarily written by Ben. Their music felt familiar yet fresh, often leaving audiences wondering if they were listening to classics by legends like Jerry Lee Lewis or Professor Longhair.
Years later, the band is stronger than ever, playing globally at venues ranging from Royal Albert Hall to Wembley Stadium and events like the New Orleans Jazz Festival and BBC’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing.’ They’re based in London but continue to tour worldwide.