One of Mamou’s native sons is returning home, where his career playing music began three decades ago, to be inducted into the Fred’s Lounge Wall of Fame.
Grammy award winning Steve Riley and his band the Mamou Playboys will join the likes of Belton Richard, Jo-El Sonnier, Aldus Roger, and fellow Mamou native Jimmy C. Newman during the induction ceremony scheduled for Saturday, November 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Fred’s Lounge.
“I belong to one of the greatest cultures in the world and it is an honor being a part of such a vital, thriving musical and cultural tradition,” said Riley in a press release. “Being a Cajun and playing Cajun music has enriched my life in ways I never imagined. For that and for the continued support from the folks here in Acadiana, I am eternally grateful.”
Since beginning his band in 1988 with fiddle player David Greely, Riley has brought his brand of Cajun music to audiences around the world through the band’s 15 albums and countless live performances.
Over the years, Riley has become to be described as a master of the Cajun accordion, and his band has been propelled into the limelight of the world stage because of their playing style and charisma.
While still performing across the country, Riley has presently evolved his craft into a teaching role through an after school music program for elementary and high school students at several schools across the Acadiana area. Riley also initiated his own production company to highlight Cajun and Creole music.
Riley’s Mamou Playboys include Kevin Wimmer on fiddle, Sam Broussard on guitar, Kevin Dugas on drums, and Brazos Huval on bass.
The public is invited to attend the induction ceremony at Fred’s Lounge. Those unable to attend can listen to the live broadcast with Annona Bolfa on KPVI 1050 AM.
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TONY MARKS Associate Editor