Papa Mojo’s Roadhouse closes (videos)

Sad and surprising news for Triangle music & food lovers. Owner Mel Melton has closed the doors at Papa Mojo’s Roadhouse music club & restaurant in Durham. Melton, the award–winning “zydeco chef” and leader of the Wicked Mojos band, made the announcement Monday. “I’ll be 65 next month, (and) I’m just burned out.”

The bayou/voodoo/zydeco decor and authentic Cajun Creole cuisine made the Roadhouse unique among Triangle restaurants.

“The lease is up in August, so I decided to shut it down,” Melton said. “There’s just no money in the blues thing. We’d bring in internationally known acts, and there was not much appetite for it. Then we got into this merry-go-round with local bands, but how many different times can you see the same bands? Right now, I’m interested in getting back to playing some music myself.”

Papa Mojo’s 7-year run included 3 memorable performances by Melton’s former band mate, Louisiana slide guitar wizard Sonny Landreth, including 2 in the first year, which helped put “Mel’s” on the map. Doubling as chef and musician, Melton often sat in for a few songs with performers. Videos from 2 of his appearances are below.

A personal note of appreciation and thanks to Mel, who was at the forefront of a growth spurt in the Triangle music scene when he opened the Roadhouse. It will be missed.


Blues World Order with Mel Melton   “Got Love If You Want It”   07/09/2011


Sonny Landreth with Mel Melton   “I Had a Dream”   09/14/2008

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