As a youngster, Simien grew close to zydeco music after being exposed to the legendary Clifton Chenier. By the age of 15, Simien spent his time developing his accordion skills. He later went on to form Terrance Simien and the Mallet Playboys, playing in local clubs during the early eighties. Simien’s big opportunity was an appearance at the 1984 World’s Fair, followed by a show at New York’s Lone Star Cafe the following year. It was there that Simien had the opportunity to perform for a cast of well-known musicians in route to the Live Aid concert, including Bob Dylan, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Paul Simon. An offer for a guest appearance on Simon’s Grammy award winning "Graceland" release followed, and Simien was on his way in the music business.

Despite some early success with his live performances, Simien’s past recording career has been inconsistent at best. That situation is looking to improve, however, now that he has found a new recording label willing to give him some creative control. "Positively Beadhead" is Simien’s first release in almost six years and his second effort on Tone Cool Records, following up the five track EP "Jam the Jazzfest" released in 1993. Simien’s soulful voice steals the show, displaying a strong similarity to the legendary Sam Cooke. He blends a number of his early musical influences into one zydeco music package. The disc opens with the fast-paced "All Her Lovin". The smooth-sounding "Paradise" has an "Under the Boardwalk" feel to it, while songs like "This Old Road" and the cover tune "500 Miles" allow Simien to stretch out vocally and display his musical versatility. "Jolie Blonde" blends a country and western sound to Simien’s accordion-driven music. Simien also wrote the Mowtown sounding "Grandma’s House" as a tribute to the late Jerry Garcia. This disc closes with the New Orleans sound of "Shake Your Tambourine".