Cajun musician, Emerson “Ray” Abshire of the Balfa Brothers passed away on Tuesday, February 25, 2020.
Abshire was owner/operator of Magnolia Torque and Testing, Inc. and a well-known Cajun accordion player. Abshire was a member of the Louisiana Folk Music Hall of Fame. He was 68.
From the Ray Abshire Band Facebook Page:
“Ray Abshire is one of Cajun Music’s purist accordionists and vocalists and a living link to its 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.
Ray left the bandstand in 1975 while accordionist for the legendary “Balfa Brothers Band” and helping to open windows for Cajun Music in the nation’s musical consciousness. 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 its own wholesome electricity. He plays it the way it was handed down to him and understands the importance of preserving the authenticity of one of this nation’s great “folk” musics. Each and every time you attend a Ray Abshire performance, you are guaranteed the “real deal”!”
https://www.delhommefuneralhome.com/obituaries/Emerson-Abshire/#!/Obituary
