The last time Grammy-winning, world-renowned Zydeco artist Terrance Simien performed in Fredericksburg, it was a sell out.
Tonight and Friday he returns to play two shows at the —one for kids and the other for adults.
Simien will host The Creole for Kids program at 6 p.m. tonight and Terrance Simien & The Zydeco Experience will perform at 8:30 p.m. on Friday.
Simien first played Fredericksburg in the late 1980s at 909 Saloon owner Brian Hyland’s first joint, The Irish Brigade (where The is now). Since then, Hyland and Simien developed a friendship.
Simien said during a recent interview that even after travelling the world and performing in more than 25 countries, he still loves coming back to Fredericksburg.
“Fredericksburg is a special place," he said. "It’s like home for us—so much history, and the people make the city. We know we’re going to have a good time.”
Simien has become one of the world’s most-popular Zydeco artists, as well as one of the world’s leading Creole and Zydeco educators. His band recently did a cultural program and demonstration with the U.S. Embassy and its outreach program.
“We try to do our part. People are fascinated by the culture. We want to put the right information out there, keep the information accurate," he said.
Simien does university-level demonstrations and hosts the international Creole for Kids program. Children of all ages will learn about the cultural and musical history of the multiracial French-speaking Creoles of South Louisiana. Of course, there will be great Creole music tonight and yummy food, too.
“Every culture has music. Taj Mahal said, ‘Music is the intergalactic language.’ I think, there would be no wars, just set up a stage and we’ll have it all worked out by the end of the show," Simien said.
“I’ve learned so much playing for the kids," Simien continued. "Kids are drawn to the positive experiences more than the negative. Put positive in front of them, and they will take to that. ”
Simien said his music has elements of French, German, African, Native American and Spanish cultures.
“Kids can relate to the music," he said. "It is a part of their DNA, and they try to explain that when the music moves them."
On Friday, adults can enjoy the complete Grammy-winning Zydeco Experience at which is known for its great food, colorful music venue and the memorabilia hung on the walls. Even if you’re feeling blue, the music will brighten your night. You’d be surprised how refreshed you will feel after a night of good music and uplifting fun.
Simien said he never imagined he would be as successful as he is today. After touring and teaching all over the world, fighting to have a Grammy segment for Creole and Zydeco music, winning a Grammy, and continuing to perform to thousands all over the world, he credits his wife and daughter for keeping him grounded throughout his musical career.
“We spend a lot of time apart," he said. "Everything I do is for them."
6p.m. tonight – Creole for Kids
Tickets: $10/ child. Parents are Free.
8:30p.m. Friday – The Zydeco Experience
Tickets: $30/Adult 21+
Call or email 909 Saloon to Reserve your ticket today.
(540) 479-1909
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