Terrance Simien

For more than 2 decades Grammy award winning artist Terrance Simien, 8th generation Louisiana Creole has been shattering the myths about what his indigenous Creole Zydeco music is and is not. Leading his Zydeco Experience Band, Simien has become one of the most respected and internationally recognized touring and recording artists in roots music today. He has performed over 5000 concerts, toured millions of miles to over 40 countries and reached at least a million people during his eventful 25 year career.

Since his family is documented in the history books as one of the first Creole families to settle St. Landry Parish he was deeply affected by those great Creole Zydeco pioneers like Chenier, Delafose, Chavis, Ardoin and Fontenot to name a few. He counts himself one of the fortunate, as he is the last generation with a direct link to these artists, some of whom mentored him as an emerging talent. He has assumed that same role to a new generation of young Zydeco players. He understands how critical mentoring is to the survival of this indigenous music that has become synonymous with the cultural identity of Louisiana, the South and an important part of the musical landscape of this country.

He has received countless awards, grants and recognition for his artistry as well as his contributions to help raise the professional standards by mentoring his fellow and emerging artists about the music industry. He worked closely with HBO producers on and was seen in the HBO documentary film “The Music in Me: Children’s Recitals from Classical to Latin, Jazz to Zydeco.” In 2008 Simien became a spokesperson for the State of Louisiana Office of Tourism and is featured in national television commercials and print ads. In December of 2009, Disney will release a new Pixar animated film, “The Princess & The Frog”, set in New Orleans, featuring their first black princess, scored by Randy Newman and features the music of Simien, Terence Blanchard and Dr. John to name a few. Terrance is currently working on a non fiction book for students about Creole culture and zydeco music.

Simien, along with business partner/wife was successful in establishing a new Grammy voting category in 2007. In 2008 he opened the Grammy pretelecast awards ceremony with a 10 minute performance. Later that day he received his own Grammy for “Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album” at the 50th annual awards!