Daniel “Theory” Simmons is a music educator, producer, and technologist whose work bridges artistry,
education, and innovation. He currently serves as a Teaching Assistant in Hip-Hop Music & Culture at
the University of Southern California, where he is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Teaching
and Learning with a focus on artificial intelligence in music education. A former Assistant Professor at
Hampton University and Norfolk State University, Simmons has taught courses in music theory,
technology, and industry practice with an emphasis on culturally responsive and project-based
learning.
As Executive Director of Musiq Tech, he leads programs that emphasize popular music, technology and
career services that expand access to modern music education. Professionally known as “Theory,” his
production credits span collaborations with artists such as Beyoncé, T.I., and Snoop Dogg, and
placements with companies including Disney, Netflix, and Rostrum Records. Through his work,
Simmons continues to explore how creativity, technology, and education intersect to empower the
next generation of artists and thinkers
