by Stacia Proefrock
Singer/songwriter Terri Hendrix was born and raised in San Antonio, TX. She left home to attend Hardin-Simmons University in Abelene on vocal scholarship before transferring to Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, where she continues to reside. While there she came under the influence of a local philanthropist, Marion Williamson, who owned a property in Hye, TX called Wilory Farm. In exchange for working on the farm, Hendrix received voice and guitar lessons from Williamson and developed a friendship with her that lasted until Williamson's death from cancer in 1997. To honor her, Hendrix changed the name of her record label from Tycoon Cowgirl Records to Wilory Records and issued an album entitled Wilory Farm in 1998. Her previous album, Two Dollar Shoes had received critical acclaim by that time, making her a local hit. Hendrix's versatile, folky style -- which hangs elements of blues, pop, and traditional music on a country framework -- was also featured on a 1999 live recording and 2000's Wilroy Farm and Places in Between. 2002 saw the release of Ring, described by Performing Songwriter as a "thoroughly captivating record". The year also found the artist performing at top festivals around the country and bringing home a Grammy for "Lil' Jack Slade," a song co-written for the Dixie Chicks' Home album. Her next release is slated for summer, 2004.