CULTURE

Balfa, one of folk music’s most cherished musicians, opened the door to world travel and lessons about music as freedom. “Dewey said even though you’re into Cajun music right now, don’t limit yourself,” said Riley. “Do whatever you want to do – with this music or play another type of music if you want. Music is a universal language and a beautiful form of self expression.”

Taking that to heart, Riley found a kindred spirit in David Greely, a fiddler and songwriter who helped launch the Mamou Playboys to original hits and four Grammy nominations. But the band’s trademark of stellar musicians was rattled in November 2021. Rock-steady drummer Kevin Dugas found a day job and no longer had time for travel.

Riley’s worst band fear of losing Dugas had been realized. But the pandemic had given Riley more time to play with Burke and his younger brother, by three years, Dolsy. The family band’s shows on Facebook Live gained a following. Riley knew Burke had a solid groove but needed polishing for a live audience. “He practiced on a drum set in our rec room every night,” said Riley. “He learned at an accelerated rate. He’s gotten better and better. He’s made it happen.”

For Riley, stardom at a young age gave him anxiety that took more than a decade to shake. He watched other musicians struggle with alcohol before kicking his own drug habit. “I fell into some pitfalls from just not knowing how to handle things,” he said. Burke is aware of my journey and what I’ve been through.”

He looks forward to more family time at future Festivals Acadiens et Créoles but wants to be more than a mentor who teaches his children Balfa Brothers’ classics and Mamou Playboys’ interpretations. “I can guide him through it in a healthy way, without saying ‘Here’s a beer for you to relax,’” Riley said. “That ain’t going to happen with my boys. I’m not going to be offering them beer. I’m not drinking.” R