The Wildparty Sheiks were an American acoustic blues music quartet. Based in New York City, they were active from 1998 until late 2002, specializing in a revival of the "jug band" and "hokum" genres of African-American string band music originally performed in the early twentieth century (specifically, the late 1920's through the mid-1930's). Each member of the Wildparty Sheiks assumed a 'Sheik' pseudonym/stage name; they typically performed adorned in costumes such as silk robes, tuxedo suits, and fezzes.
The band's lineup was:
In 2002, the band released an eponymous CD on 7th Room Records (#001) with the following tracks, all covers, crediting the original performers and dates of recording:
Soon after performing their final "CD release party" gig at NYC's "The Fez" nightclub on October 4, 2002, the band effectively dissolved with the departure of lead singer Gresham for a work relocation to London, UK. Gresham returned to New York City in 2005; he presently performs as singer and guitarist with the jug band "The Salt Cracker Crazies". Mandolist Royce relocated to Ontario, Canada where he performs with a variety of bands. Bassist LeSage relocated to Milwaukee, WI where he performs as "Pupy Costello" and "Old Sam Teardrop". Willis DeBarge, still a resident of NYC, is reported to have disappeared into the world of radio engineering.