Cha Wa Strikes Swampy Groove on New Single “Why You Wanna Do Me Like That” Featuring Irma Thomas

Photo: Rachel Brennecke

The Mardi Gras Indian fused Big Easy brass band, Cha Wa, has unveiled the latest preview of their studio album, Rise Up, due in full on August 29, 2025, two decades after Hurricane Katrina made landfall. The new funk-fueled single, “Why You Wanna Do Me Like That,” transmits the city’s spirit through a rhythm-heavy, bayou-inspired swamp groove, featuring a guest appearance from “The Soul Queen of New Orleans,” Irma Thomas. Like the spirit of the band, the track embodies cultural preservation and celebration, and the resilience of New Orleans.

“Why You Wanna Do Me Like That” is the third track to arrive off the group’s fourth studio entry, following the R&B-funk lean of lead track “Here We Come” and the feel-good, Sly and the Family Stone-inspired “Music is Medicine.” As a pair, the songs further the band’s mission to uplift listeners with an infectious authenticity rooted in their Afro-Indigenous musical heritage, reinforced on the new single.

Cha Wa began in 2014, upon Northeastern-bred drummer Joe Gelini’s move to New Orleans to work under the guidance of master Idris Muhammad. The experience inspired his sound, coursing the vibrancy of New Orleans into every pulse, pluck, and beat generated by the group. “Spyboy” Irving “Honey” Banister Jr. of the Golden Sioux Tribe, Gelini, and their fellow contributors preserve history and recognize the folks that helped establish the Big Easy’s musical identity and their latest release.

“This song pays homage to the classic era of New Orleans songwriting, evoking the spirit of early New Orleans Rock’n’Roll and R&B music. In the vein of legendary artists like Lee Dorsey, Earl King, and Allen Toussaint, it’s a tale of resentment and reciprocity, but with a distinctly New Orleans twist. Is it karma, a voodoo curse, or an incantation using Gris Gris? The interpretation is yours to imagine,” Gelini says of “Why You Wanna Do Me Like That.”

“Working with Ms. Irma was an absolute dream come true. I have been a huge fan of hers for as long as I can remember,” he continued. “We were in awe when she arrived at the studio to record the song. She regaled us with her stories of overcoming challenges as a young recording artist, fighting tirelessly for her family and her dreams in a male-dominated industry. Her reputation as a top-notch professional preceded her, and she did not disappoint. Unlike some artists, she didn’t have an ego and actively sought our feedback and guidance during the session from the vocal booth. It was an unforgettable experience.”

“My co-writer, the legendary session guitarist, writer, and producer Shane Theriot, was another gem. We instantly connected, and his studio above his house here in New Orleans is such a vibe. While every co-writer approaches collaboration differently, Shane went straight for the rhythm section. We immediately dove into the drumset and guitars, setting the stage for a swampy and funky groove that defined the rest of the writing session. Collaborating with such musical legends is truly inspiring, and I believe this song captures the essence of what makes New Orleans music so unique,” Gelini concluded.

Listen to “Why You Wanna Do Me Like That” now.

Pre-order Rise Up via www.chawaband.com.