If you’ve ever wandered down Sixth Street on a Friday night or stumbled upon an outdoor concert in Zilker Park in Austin, you’ll understand why this city is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” But Austin’s music scene isn’t just about the countless bands and musicians performing nightly – it’s deeply woven into the fabric of the city’s culture and economy.
In this post, let’s take a journey through the decades to see how Austin’s music scene has evolved.
Early Beginnings
Austin’s live music scene has deep roots, going all the way back to the 1870s with the German beer halls. One of the oldest businesses still running west of the Mississippi is Scholz Garten on San Jacinto Boulevard. Even General Custer hung out there when he was stationed in the cavalry. Scholz Garten has a fantastic outdoor stage with a mural of the German Alps on the back wall, making it a great venue even today.
In the 1930s, the Chitlin Circuit was thriving on Austin’s Eastside, with music halls hosting legends like BB King and Ray Charles. This era is a crucial part of Austin’s musical heritage and gives a glimpse into the city’s soulful past. The 1950s brought rock and roll to Austin, with a young Elvis Presley performing in town.
The 1960s: Birth of the Cosmic Cowboys
Back in the late ’60s, Austin was a small town of about 200,000 people, divided into three main groups: white conservative cowboys, long-haired tie-dye liberal hippies, and politicians. These groups didn’t always get along. Then Eddie Wilson had a vision to unite Austin through music and opened the Armadillo World Headquarters, a huge hall that could hold 1,500 people. His friend, Willie Nelson, decided to help out.
Willie’s music had a unique appeal that both the cowboys and hippies enjoyed. He even helped bridge the gap between the two groups. During his shows, if a fight broke out, Willie would stop the music and encourage everyone to get along and appreciate their shared love for music. The sounds of honky-tonk and Western swing filled the airwaves and local dance halls, drawing crowds eager to two-step the night away.
It wasn’t long before you’d see long-haired guys wearing cowboy hats and cowboys enjoying things other than just tobacco. Willie is credited with starting the “Cosmic Cowboy” movement and putting Austin on the map as the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
Blues music also had a strong presence, with local musicians like T.D. Bell and Erbie Bowser bringing their soulful sounds to life. These artists played at juke joints and small clubs, captivating audiences with their heartfelt performances. The blend of country and blues created a unique musical landscape that was distinctly Austin.
Several key venues played a crucial role in nurturing this burgeoning music scene. The Skyline Club, for instance, was a hotspot where country legends like Hank Williams and Elvis Presley performed. Elvis mentioned he made around $250 a night playing here, and many local musicians of today will tell you little has changed.
Threadgill’s Tavern, a gas station bar turned music venue, became a beloved gathering place for musicians and fans alike. The owner, Kenneth Threadgill, a Texas folk singer who performed with Hank Williams and is considered the “Father of Austin Country Music.” One time, a young barefoot girl was asked to sing, and Threadgill heard her sing one song and he immediately recognized her talent. He took her under his wing, and that girl was Janis Joplin. She honed her craft in Austin before becoming a rock ‘n’ roll icon.
The 1970s: Birth of the Live Music Capital
The 1970s was a transformative decade for Austin’s music scene. It was when iconic venues rose up, more unique music genres became popular, and a TV show would put Austin on the musical map.
One of the most legendary venues to emerge during this time was the Armadillo World Headquarters. Though it was built in the 60s, it found popularity in the 70s. Known simply as “the Armadillo,” this eclectic venue became a cultural hub for music lovers. It was a place where country and rock fans could come together, bridging the gap between genres. The Armadillo hosted a wide range of artists, from local talents to big names like Willie Nelson and Frank Zappa. Its laid-back atmosphere and diverse lineup made it a cornerstone of Austin’s music scene.
It was also in the 70s when the cosmic cowboy genre became a hit. This genre, a unique blend of rock, country, and folk, was enjoyed due to its laid-back, free-spirited vibe. Artists like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Jerry Jeff Walker embraced the countercultural spirit of the time, combining the storytelling of country with the rebellious energy of rock. The cosmic cowboy sound resonated deeply with audiences and became a defining element of Austin’s musical identity.
Willie Nelson became a central figure in the local music scene. His unique style and charismatic performances drew huge crowds and helped solidify Austin’s reputation as a music mecca. Another influential artist also started in Austin: Stevie Ray Vaughan, who would later become a blues legend. The eclectic Western swing band Asleep at the Wheel also emerged during the era.
Live performances from Austin was brought to a national audience through the TV show Austin City Limits. Premiering in 1974, this show featured a wide range of artists, from local favorites to international stars. Austin City Limits popularized Austin’s music scene, drawing attention from music lovers across the country and cementing the city’s status as a live music destination.
The 1980s: Punk, New Wave, and Alternative
The 1980s shook things up with the influence of punk, new wave, and alternative music. This decade was all about breaking boundaries and exploring new sounds, leading to an even richer and more eclectic musical landscape.
The city’s DIY spirit and rebellious energy found a perfect match in the raw, edgy sounds of punk music. Bands like The Big Boys and The Dicks were at the forefront, delivering high-energy performances that resonated with young audiences looking for something different from the mainstream. The punk scene was all about authenticity and attitude, and it brought a new intensity to Austin’s music culture.
Alongside punk, the new wave movement also gained traction in Austin. This genre, with its catchy melodies and synthesizer-driven sounds, offered a fresh alternative to traditional rock. Bands like Zeitgeist (later known as The Reivers) embraced the new wave aesthetic, creating music that was both innovative and accessible. The fusion of punk’s raw energy with new wave’s polished production created a dynamic and exciting musical environment.
Key venues played a crucial role in supporting this musical evolution. The Continental Club, which had been around since the 1950s, became a hotspot for punk and new wave acts. Its intimate setting and lively atmosphere made it a favorite among both musicians and fans. Another iconic venue was Liberty Lunch, known for its eclectic lineup and vibrant community of music lovers. These venues provided a stage for local bands to experiment and grow.
The famous South by Southwest (SXSW) also originated in the 1980s. This music festival and conference that would go on to have a profound impact on Austin and the music industry at large. Founded in 1987, SXSW started as a small event aimed at showcasing local talent and fostering connections within the music community.
However, SXSW quickly grew into a major cultural phenomenon, attracting artists, industry professionals, and fans from around the world. SXSW not only put Austin on the global music map but also created opportunities for countless musicians to gain exposure and advance their careers.
The 1990s: Growth and Mainstream Success
During the 1990s, alternative and indie rock took center stage in Austin. The city became a hotspot for these genres, attracting bands that were looking for a place to experiment and grow.
SXSW continued to expand and cement its influence on the music industry throughout the 1990s. What started as a small music conference had grown into a massive event that drew artists and industry professionals from around the world. SXSW became a launching pad for emerging artists, giving them a chance to perform in front of influential music executives and media. The festival’s panels and workshops also provided valuable networking opportunities and industry insights, making it an essential event for anyone serious about a career in music.
Several notable artists and bands from Austin gained national attention during the 1990s. Spoon, formed in 1993, became one of the most successful indie rock bands of the decade, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Fastball, another local favorite, achieved mainstream success with their hit single “The Way” in 1998. These bands, along with others like The Gourds and The Old 97’s, showcased the diversity and talent of Austin’s music scene, proving that the city could produce artists capable of achieving national and international success.
The Red River Cultural District, the iconic area in downtown Austin that became synonymous with live music, was developed in the 1990s. The district was home to iconic venues like Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, which hosted both local acts and major touring artists. Other venues, such as Emo’s and The Mohawk, became go-to spots for fans of alternative and indie rock.
2000s: Technology and Global Reach
During the 2000s, Austin’s music scene reached a global audience, thanks to the rise of the internet and digital music. The internet revolutionized the music industry, and Austin was no exception. Digital platforms like MySpace, Napster, and later, streaming services such as Spotify, allowed local artists to share their music with the world instantly. This online presence gave Austin musicians unprecedented reach, enabling them to build fan bases far beyond the city limits. Bands like Explosions in the Sky and Okkervil River leveraged the power of the internet to gain international followings.
Major music festivals also emerged in the decade. In 2002, the Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL) was launched, and became one of the most popular music festivals in the country. It attracted tens of thousands of attendees each year, boosting the local economy and reinforcing Austin’s reputation as a top destination for live music.
Several key genres and artists emerged during this decade, further diversifying Austin’s musical landscape. Indie rock continued to thrive, with bands like Spoon and …And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead gaining critical acclaim and loyal fan bases. The city also saw a resurgence of folk and Americana music, with artists such as Iron & Wine and Shakey Graves making a significant impact. These genres reflected the city’s eclectic tastes and creative spirit, ensuring that there was always something new and exciting happening in the Austin music scene.
Local radio stations and music blogs did much to support and promote local artists from Austin during the 2000s. Stations like KUTX and KGSR provided a platform for local musicians to reach new audiences, playing their tracks and featuring them in live studio sessions. Meanwhile, music blogs like Austinist and Do512 became essential sources for discovering new talent and keeping up with the latest happenings in the scene. These outlets helped to build a sense of community and connection among Austin’s music lovers.
The 2010s to Present: Sustaining the Legacy
The modern music industry presents both challenges and opportunities for Austin musicians. On the one hand, the rise of streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube has made it easier for artists to reach a global audience. Musicians can now upload their songs and gain listeners from all over the world, without needing a major record deal.
However, this shift also means that artists often struggle to make a living from streaming revenue alone, as payouts from these platforms are typically low. This has led many artists to rely more on live performances, merchandise sales, and crowdfunding to sustain their careers.
Social media has become an essential tool for Austin musicians. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok allow artists to connect directly with their fans, share updates, and promote their music. Social media has also become a valuable marketing tool, helping artists build their brand and engage with a wider audience. For example, bands like Black Pumas and singers like Gina Chavez have used these platforms effectively to boost their profiles and reach new listeners.
Several notable current artists and bands have emerged from Austin in recent years, continuing the city’s legacy of musical innovation. Black Pumas, with their soulful sound and electrifying performances, have garnered international acclaim and even earned Grammy nominations. Shakey Graves, known for his unique blend of folk, rock, and blues, has become a favorite both locally and nationally. Other rising stars like White Denim and Sweet Spirit showcase the diversity and talent that Austin continues to produce.
To maintain Austin’s vibrant music scene, organizations like the Austin Music Foundation and the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) provide resources, education, and healthcare support to local musicians. These organizations help artists navigate the complexities of the music industry and sustain their careers. Also, initiatives like the Austin City Limits Hall of Fame celebrate the city’s rich musical history. It honors the legendary artists and ensures their contributions are remembered.
Conclusion
Reflecting on the continuous evolution of Austin’s music scene, it’s clear that this city has an incredible ability to adapt and innovate. Each decade brought new sounds, new challenges, and new opportunities, all of which have contributed to making Austin the Live Music Capital of the World.
