Ray Abshire is one of Cajun music's purest accordionists and vocalists and a living link to it's very roots. A member of one of Louisiana's legendary musical families, Ray grew up surrounded by Cajun music's pioneer artists. He has performed with most all of the old masters whose recordings now form the texts for students of today.
In 1975, while at the pinnacle of Cajun music as accordionist with the legendary "Balfa Brothers Band" and helping to open windows for Cajun music in the nation's musical consciousness, Ray left the bandstand. Abshire's return to the stage has been hailed by both critics and fans alike. He is once again at the forefront and sharing his knowledge and skills with a new generation.
Recognized as a master musician and one of the resurgence leaders of Cajun music, Ray now enjoys conducting workshops, teaching at music camps and performing at major festivals both nationally and abroad.
Ray's music is unfiltered and has it's own wholesome electricity. He plays it the way it was handed down to him and understands the importance of preserving one of this nation's great "folk" musics. Each and every time you attend a Ray Abshire performance you are guaranteed the "real deal"! Ray's award winning albums "For Old Times Sake" released 2003 and "Don't Stop The Music" released 2005 are available at www.rayabshire.com and single cuts are available below:
After you've finished here, you may like to hear this poem sung on myspace...
Poem 2 of 230, WalkaboutsVerse (please see my blog): WALKABOUT WITH MY PEN
Once drove an old sedan, up north, From a place in Sydney to Cairns; Then to Kuranda I went forth, By train, to look without set plans.
I browsed through the trendy market, With fresh fruits of tropical kind; Walked to the creek through lush thicket - Nature’s hand giving peace of mind.
I dined in a scenic cafe; Then, outside, as I wrote for yen, Some passing Kooris called-out: “Hey, You go walkabout with your pen.”
Request or question, I don’t know - Assured voices, elderly men. That’s now several years ago, And I’ve seen the world - with my pen.
