For over 20 years, the Hot 8 Brass Band has been one of the most popular and visible funk-style brass bands in community parades and funerals. In 1996, sousaphone player Bennie Pete played a key role in merging two former Fortier High School student groups, the High Steppers and the Looney Tunes Brass Bands, to form the Hot 8. The band’s members grew up together, and they continue to maintain strong, family-like bonds and regular membership. Most of the players were born between 1975 and 1987, belonging to a generation that primarily heard modern-style brass bands in community functions. The Hot 8’s lineup is often larger than many other younger groups, frequently featuring ten members, including three trumpets, three trombones, tuba, bass drum, and snare drum. As is common in some more modern brass bands, the Hot 8 includes only one reed player. The band's funk style blends influences from iconic New Orleans groups like the Dirty Dozen and Rebirth, while incorporating contemporary R&B, rap, and the local variation known as “bounce.” This mix creates a unique sound that sets them apart from other brass bands in the genre. The band's distinctive sound is largely due to the steady flow of creative original songs and ideas contributed by various band members. Since the Dirty Dozen, the sousaphone has played a more prominent role in brass bands, often serving as both a feature and solo instrument. It frequently sets up and maintains short rhythmic (and sometimes melodic) grooves that dominate and propel the band's songs, adding a driving force to their performances.