Tradition and Artist Overview 

New Orleans second line is a New Orleans art form that encourages community and dancing in the street. These street parades combine African and Afro-Caribbean rhythms with brass instruments to infuse western classical, jazz, funk, soul, and hip hop styles of music. The tradition is entwined with the deep history and culture of New Orleans, with origins in traditional West African circle or ring dances. The second line was brought to New Orleans by enslaved Africans, where it became a ritual especially in various processions, including funerals. The “second line” describes the band, dancers, guests, or anyone who walks behind the person(s) of honor in the “first line.” Victor and Marcella describe second line jazz as a “swirl of sound.” 

Memphis native Victor fronts Lucky 7 Brass Band. As a performer, he has recorded at legendary studios and performed with Memphis legends such as 8Ball & MJG, Valerie June, Steve Cropper and others. He also worked as a teaching artist for 12 years, sharing music education with youth.

Marcella was born into one of the first Creole families to settle Louisiana’s St. Landry Parish and is the daughter of award-winning zydeco luminary Terrance Simien. In addition to her work with Lucky 7 Brass Band and Marcella & Her Lovers, Marcella performs with Marcella & Les Vagues, Magnolias and Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience.