Boukou Groove, a dynamic New Orleans-based funk and soul band, has been captivating audiences since their formation in 2010, blending infectious grooves with soulful melodies and rock influences. Led by the powerful vocals and keyboard prowess of Donnie Sundal and the electrifying guitar work of Derwin "Big D" Perkins, they continue to innovate and resonate within the vibrant music scene, showcasing their unique "New Orleans Soul Funk" sound.
Boukou Groove is a New Orleans-based funk, soul, and jam band known for their unique blend of New Orleans sound. Formed in 2010 at Tipitina's, a famed venue in New Orleans, the band quickly carved out a niche in the city's vibrant music scene.
Formed in late 2010, Boukou Groove consists of two primary members who drive its distinctive sound:- Donnie Sundal: Vocalist, keyboardist, and Moog bass player.- Derwin "Big D" Perkins: Guitarist.
Their collaboration creates a sound rich in New Orleans soul and funk, complemented by jam band influences and rock elements.
Boukou Groove is renowned for its "New Orleans Soul Funk" sound, which is characterized by:- Dynamic New Orleans funk- Soulful melodies- Inspired rock influences- Energetic jam band improvisations
The band is marked by Big D's potent guitar riffs and Sundal's expressive keyboard playing alongside his compelling blue-eyed soul vocals.
Albums:- "A Lil' Boukou In Your Cup" (2012)- "Let The Groove Ride" (2015)- "Groovin'" (2023)
Singles:- "Never Steal Our Thunder" (2019)- "Ain't No Lie" (2022)- "Goin' With The Flow" (2022)
Notable tracks include:- "Two To Tango" from their debut album, which achieved over 2 million Spotify plays.- "Ain't No Lie," which garnered over 188,000 plays on YouTube by 2023.
The band's ability to collaborate with musical legends has enriched their sound. Notable collaborations include:- Sam Bush on mandolin- Junior Marvin of Bob Marley's Wailers- John Cleary with a piano solo on "Two To Tango"- Nigel Hall of Lettuce providing background vocals- Khris Royal on saxophone
Boukou Groove has seen success on the stage, performing at numerous notable venues and festivals, such as:- Regular performances in New Orleans clubs like the iconic Maple Leaf and Tipitina’s.- Appearances along Florida's Emerald Coast.- Tours in Japan, headlining at events like the Live Magic! Festival and Blue Note Tokyo.- Their first appearance at the prestigious New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 2019.- Performances at Mountain festivals like the Bayou Boogaloo and 30A Songwriters Festival.
Donnie Sundal has been involved in several side projects and collaborations, including work with:- Colonel Bruce Hampton- Ivan Neville- George Porter Jr.- Co-writing for Galactic and earning a Grammy nomination for engineering work with Sam Bush.
Derwin "Big D" Perkins boasts appearances in noteworthy advertising and has performed with legendary New Orleans musicians.
In 2023, Boukou Groove released a limited edition vinyl "Groovin'" with Juicy Records in the Netherlands, a testament to their ongoing innovation and worldwide appeal. They continue to captivate audiences in the New Orleans funk and soul scene, perpetuating their legacy of music-making excellence.
