You don’t need to buy an accordion or don a cowboy hat to dive into Louisiana’s vibrant music scene. Just look at Sid “El Sido” Williams, who passed away recently at 73. He was a fast-talking guy, always sporting a hat, and he played the accordion, but he was also so much more.
Sid built El Sido’s Zydeco and Blues Club in Lafayette, a place that launched the careers of many notable musicians, including the famous Buckwheat Zydeco. They played their first show there on opening night in 1984 and returned for special performances every Mother’s Day and Christmas, despite their busy world tour schedule.
El Sido’s was not just a club; it was a home for music. It served as the stepping stone for Nathan & The Zydeco Cha Chas, Williams’ brother’s band. Nathan Williams Jr. grew up surrounded by music, and today, bands like Lil Nathan and the Zydeco Big Timers are leaders in the genre.
The impact of El Sido’s stretched beyond music. The club hosted an annual Thanksgiving food drive that helped thousands in the community. Williams also drew the attention of documentary filmmakers, as seen in episodes of “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown.”
Just a block away, Sid’s One Stop served the neighborhood with food and gas, helping ease the burden of living in a food desert. Williams’ success was especially meaningful given his challenging upbringing. He was the oldest of seven, losing his father at a young age. He recalled in a 2015 interview how he used to get into trouble but later recognized the importance of community support after experiencing his mother’s distress.
Since his passing, family, friends, and fans have shared memories and tributes on social media, celebrating Williams’ significant influence on zydeco and Creole culture. Yet, there’s a sense of loss as well—El Sido’s is one of the last original zydeco dance halls. Williams often spoke about how crowds had dwindled, with new venues pulling audiences away. “I had a good run,” he said, reflecting on his legacy. “But people forget you.”
Williams believed in the power of community. “Those who succeed should support the next generation, just as someone helped me,” he said, emphasizing the importance of giving back.
He often mentioned writing a song about resilience, noting that “bad luck and trouble don’t last always” and that eventually, the sun will shine again. Rest in peace, Sid Williams. Your legacy will continue to inspire many.
Herman Fuselier is the executive director of the St. Landry Parish Tourist Commission and a longtime journalist in Louisiana music and culture, based in Opelousas. His “Zydeco Stomp” show airs at noon Saturdays on KRVS 88.7 FM.
