Ervin "Vin" Bruce (April 25, 1932 – June 8, 2018)[1] was one of the first Cajun musicians to appear on the Louisiana Hayride and Grand Ole Opry.
His father, Levy Bruce, worked as a trapper and fisherman, and played fiddle[2] at local Cajun dances, usually held in someone's front room.
Bruce began his musical career playing guitar with the Southern Serenaders and the Hillbilly Swing Kings.
[3] Bruce was one of the first Cajuns to perform on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and the Louisiana Hayride.
[4] Columbia released his contract, and Bruce returned to Louisiana and raised cattle.