Biography
Arsène DeLay is a New Orleans-based singer, songwriter, guitarist, and bandleader, celebrated for her powerful voice and deep connection to the city’s musical heritage[1][3][5]. Born into the Boutté family, renowned for their contributions to jazz and gospel, DeLay was immersed in music from an early age, performing on stage as a child and absorbing the traditions of her community in Tremé, the oldest Black neighborhood in America[4][6][7]. Her artistry was shaped by a rich family lineage and the vibrant cultural landscape of New Orleans, where she developed a style described as 'Soulful Roots Rock,' blending soul, rock, jazz, and gospel influences[3][5].
DeLay’s career spans solo work and collaborations with prominent local bands such as Funk Monkey, The Coven, A2D2, and the Bayou Saints, as well as projects like Blue Basso with bassist Charlie Wooton[1][2]. She has performed at festivals, on television, and in musical theater productions, including 'Nine Lives: A Musical Adaptation Live,' 'Reawakening,' and 'Weather Girl'[1]. Her experiences living and working in Los Angeles and touring internationally have contributed to her resilience and versatility as an artist, while her acting background instilled discipline and a commitment to daily creative practice[3].
Beyond music, DeLay is recognized for her activism and community engagement, notably as program manager for the New Orleans Musicians' Clinic’s Makin’ Groceries initiative, supporting local artists and residents during the pandemic[4]. Her legacy is rooted in both her artistic achievements and her dedication to uplifting her community, continuing the Boutté family tradition of advocacy and cultural preservation[4][7].
Fun Facts
- Arsène DeLay is the youngest member of the world-renowned Boutté family of vocalists[7].
- She portrayed a jazz singer in the Marvel TV series 'Cloak & Dagger,' performing a cover of 'Soul Cargo'[9].
- DeLay is known for her activism, notably resigning in protest from her role at the New Orleans Musicians' Clinic to highlight issues of racial inequity within the organization[4].
- Her music and acting careers have taken her from New Orleans to Los Angeles and back, giving her a unique perspective on both coasts' creative scenes[3][8].
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- John Boutté - Family member and legendary jazz vocalist; influenced her musical upbringing and style. (Family performances, New Orleans jazz canon) [Childhood–present]
- Lillian Boutté - Family member and renowned gospel/jazz singer; shaped her vocal technique and musical values. (Family performances, gospel traditions) [Childhood–present]
Key Collaborators
- Charlie Wooton - Co-leader of Blue Basso project; frequent collaborator in live performances and recordings. (Blue Basso) [2020s]
- Funk Monkey - Band member and featured vocalist/guitarist. (Live shows, local recordings) [2010s–present]
- The Coven, A2D2, Bayou Saints - Band member and collaborator in New Orleans music scene. (Local performances) [2010s–present]
Artists Influenced
- Emerging New Orleans musicians - Mentor and inspiration through community work and performances; supported local artists via Musicians' Clinic and collaborative projects. (Makin’ Groceries program, local workshops) [2020–2022]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Feels Like Home | 2025-06-27 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Tell Me a Story (feat. Arséne Delay & Sonny Landreth) (Blue Basso)
- Reflections (feat. Arséne Delay) (Blue Basso)
- I Don’t Know (feat. Arséne Delay & Damon Fowler) (Blue Basso)
- One Night (feat. Arséne Delay & Anders Osborne) (Blue Basso)
- Ain't Misbehavin' (Feels Like Home)
- I'm Putting All My Eggs In One Basket (Feels Like Home)
- This Bitter Earth (Feels Like Home)
- For All We Know (Feels Like Home)
- Summertime (Feels Like Home)
- New Orleans Feels Like Home (Feels Like Home)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Arsene Delay has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 15, 2025 | 13:10 | Saint Judasfrom Comin` Home | New Orleans Music Showw/ Missy Bowen |