Corey Arceneaux and The Zydeco Hot Peppers in Concert and Conversation

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 85 plus 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.