COREY ARCENEAUX
There are many accordion players and a few great ones, but good luck finding more than one or two who can make a piano accordion talk, rejoice, and cry like Corey can. Labeling him is a challenge because of his creative and versatile style.
Corey grew up in Carencro, Louisiana, a small city in Lafayette parish. His parents, Paul Arceneaux and the late Debra (Melancon) Arceneaux, nurtured his love for music from an early age.
He started playing the accordion at age 11 under the tutelage of accordionist Clayton Sampy and formed his first band while still in high school. Corey has led Corey Arceneaux and the Zydeco Hot Peppers for more than 30 years. He performs regularly and is a proud member of the Recording Academy. He has a Louisiana music heritage that stretches back more than 85 years – starting with his great grandfather Ferdinand Arceneaux, a creole/lala accordionist. Corey is proud to be part of one of zydeco's first families, following in the footsteps of his late great uncle, Fernest Arceneaux. Known as the "New Prince of the Accordion," Fernest dedicated over 50 years to performing and recording zydeco music around the globe. His influence was pivotal in shaping the genre, and Corey had the honor of touring with him for a year before launching his own band in 1992. Today, Corey continues the legacy, bringing the vibrant sounds of zydeco to audiences everywhere.
His seventh and latest studio project, "Zydeco on the Road – Live in Richmond Virginia" came 32 years after his first release, “Hot Pepper" and it brings in various dance styles while sticking to his strong Creole roots. Corey’s music is a creative blend of R&B, Blues and Country enhanced with a traditional Zydeco style. Arceneaux lends his talents to the compositions that reflect his culture and ancestors. Clifton Chenier, the King of Zydeco, and Buckwheat Zydeco were his biggest influences. He grew up down the street from Buckwheat and is proud to have received mentorship from him.
With his band, the Zydeco Hot Peppers, Corey has performed both internationally and domestically, captivating audiences with their energetic performances. He’s also an award-winning radio air personality simulcasting on multiple Large Market Louisiana radio stations and the worldwide web. For more than 30 years, he has promoted Zydeco and the Creole culture of Southwest Louisiana.
Corey has a deep connection to his African-American Creole heritage and has passed on his musical legacy to his sons, who also play instruments and perform in Zydeco bands. Corey continues to be an ambassador for this vibrant American roots music genre.
PRESS PHOTOS
Corey Arceneaux (Founder, Band Leader, Accordion, Keyboardist, Vocals)
Ben Holmes (Drums and Vocals)
Doug Bell (Guitar),
Gene Monroe (Bass)
Pat Clark (Scrub-board, Drums, and Percussion)
(Select Performances and Recordings)
Tyler Arceneaux (Durms, Scrub-board,)
Desmond (D. Cole) Joseph (Bass, and Guitar)
Ben Holmes
Ben is a talented musician with an impressive history of touring and recording alongside artists such as Al Rapone and Grammy winner Queen Ida. His musical journey has spanned from Australia to Africa -- sharing the vibrant essence of Louisiana music with audiences worldwide. In August 2022, Ben joined the Zydeco Hot Peppers band, adding even more depth to his dynamic career. Experience the passion and energy he brings to every performance!
Doug Bell
With nearly 25 years of experience, this veteran musician has captivated audiences across the eastern U.S. His deep passion for authentic southern American roots music shines through, particularly in the dance styles of south Louisiana. Since joining the Zydeco Hot Peppers band in August 2022, he continues to share his love for lively melodies and infectious rhythms. Get ready to experience a musical that celebrates the heart and soul of southern culture.
Gene Monroe
With a rich musical heritage, this seasoned bassist has dedicated the past 30 years to his craft. He has graced the stages of clubs and festivals across the DC region, the Atlantic Coast, and even venues in Memphis, Chicago, San Diego and Japan. Since joining the Zydeco Hot Peppers band in August 2022, he continues to share his passion for music.
Pat Clark
Pat is a talented musician from Silver Spring, Maryland. He is a professional drummer, guitarist and dedicated music teacher. His passion for music started at a young age, deeply influenced by annual visits to New Orleans for Jazz Fest, where he developed a love for Zydeco rhythms. In August 2022, he joined the Zydeco Hot Peppers band -- adding a new instrument (scrubboard) to his repertoire.
Tyler Arceneaux
Meet the talented drummer and scrubboard player from Scott, Louisiana. As the youngest son of Corey Arceneaux, he has been immersed in the vibrant world of zydeco music since birth. Since joining the Zydeco Hot Peppers in 2005, he has not only showcased his musical prowess but has also contributed as a recording and assistant producer on several studio projects. His dedication and passion for zydeco continue to shine through in every performance. He has also graced the stage with other zydeco musicians like Chris Ardoin, Jeffery Broussard, Lil Nate and Curley Taylor. You can catch him electrifying the stage with the Zydeco Hot Peppers at select performances.
D. Cole is a talented bassist, guitarist and accordionist from Scott, Louisiana. As the oldest son of Corey Arceneaux, Desmond's musical journey began at the young age of four when he first picked up the scrubboard and performed with the Zydeco Hot Peppers. Since joining the band in June 2000, he has recorded numerous projects with the Zydeco Hot Peppers and launched his own endeavors under the name "D. Cole and Nu'Gen Zydeco." He has graced the stage with other zydeco musicians like Chris Ardoin, Rusty Metoyer, Andre Thierry, Leon Chavis and Curley Taylor. You can catch him on stage at select Zydeco Hot Peppers' performances.
