Corey arceneaux and the zydeco hot peppers
COREY ARCENEAUX
(Creole Zydeco Ambassador)
While many accordion players exist, few can express emotions through the piano accordion like Corey. His creative and versatile style makes him hard to categorize. Hailing from Carencro, Louisiana, Corey's zydeco musical journey began at age 11, thanks to his parents, Paul and the late Debra (Melancon) Arceneaux, who encouraged his passion. He learned under the brief tutelage of Clayton Sampay. Every Saturday as a youngster, Corey practiced music with his cousin Shane Bernard on the farm while visiting his paternal grandparents. He formed his first band while still in high school. For over 30 years, Corey has led Corey Arceneaux and the Zydeco Hot Peppers, performing regularly and proudly being a member of the Recording Academy. With a rich musical heritage back over 95 years to his great-grandfather Ferdinand Arceneaux, a Creole accordionist, Corey a fourth-generation accordionist carries on the legacy 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 significantly helped shape the zydeco genre, and Corey had the privilege of touring with him for a year before starting his own band in 1992. Today, Corey shares zydeco with audiences worldwide. His music creatively blends R&B, blues, and country with traditional zydeco, reflecting his cultural heritage. Influenced by legends like Clifton Chenier, Buckwheat Zydeco, and his great uncles Fernest Arceneaux and Rodney Bernard, Corey also received mentorship from Buckwheat, who lived nearby. With the Zydeco Hot Peppers, Corey has performed both internationally and domestically, captivating audiences with energetic shows. He is also an award-winning simulcasting commercial radio personality, promoting zydeco, southern soul, and Creole culture for 34 years. Deeply connected to his African-American Creole roots, Corey has passed his musical legacy to his sons, who also play instruments and perform in zydeco bands. He remains a dedicated ambassador for this vibrant American 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.
