12/04/2018
Steve Riley, of Mamou Louisiana, started the Mamou Playboys with David Greely in early 1988. He is a widely acknowledged master of the Cajun accordion and its singularly powerful sound. His playing is a standard by which timing, phrasing and ingenuity are measured on the royal instrument of South Louisiana. That, combined with his searing, emotional vocals, songwriting, soulful fiddling and onstage front man charisma have propelled he and the Mamou Playboys into the world music limelight since the band’s inception.
By the Playboy’s third release, Trace of Time, they had earned a Grammy nomination in the worldwide field of traditional folk music, another in 2004 for Bon Reve, in 2009 for Live at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and again in 2011 for their release, Grand Isle. They have released 15 records total, this year marking the 30th Anniversary for Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys!
Steve Riley is also a founding member of the Lil Band o’ Gold, High Performance, the Racines and the Band Courtbouillon with whom he, Wayne Toups and Wilson Savoy won a Grammy award in 2013!
He has recorded and performed with the likes of Eric Clapton, Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, Willie Nelson and Paul Simon!
In addition to his busy performing schedule, in 2016 Steve formed the Steve Riley After School Music Program, a Cajun/Creole music instructional program for grade school and high school kids that takes place in several schools in the Acadiana area. Teaching kids, including his own children, and nurturing their love for music has been one of his greatest passions!
In 2017, Steve started the Steve Riley Production Co. which has led to the production of several shows highlighting Cajun and Creole music. Cajun Accordion Kings, Cajun/Creole Fiddle Masters, Creole Accordion Kings, Cajun Christmas & South Louisiana Guitar Greats were presented last year & this year with more in the works for the near future.
In Steve’s words, “I belong to one of the greatest cultures in the world and it’s an honor being a part of such a vital, thriving musical & cultural tradition! 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!”
Happy 30th Anniversary Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys! Vivre la musique!
December 7th Show info http://bit.ly/2rhUpsU