The Austinot

Discover Austin Texas! An Austin blog with hundreds of unique articles.

Annual Black Fret Black Ball Returns to the Moody Theater in Austin

by Leave a Comment

Black Ball Group Shot
Black Fret Black Ball 2018 was a celebration of music, giving, and community. (credit: Bill Tucker)

If you follows this site with any regularity, you know we love Black Fret. A music organization with a heart towards sponsoring and supporting the local music community, Black Fret is a shining example of what people can do when they get together for a united cause. When their annual year-end extravaganza was cancelled in 2020, we were crestfallen. Today, we’re happy to report, it’s back! Whether you’re a long time member or someone who wants to give back to local musicians, the Black Ball is a great opportunity support and enjoy live Austin music.

Black Fret Black Ball Back at the Moody

Jonathan Terrell performs at Black Ball 2019 (credit: Bill Tucker)

Started by Matt Ott and Colin Kendrick in 2013, Black Fret’s primary mission is supporting the Austin music community through member supported grants. Black Fret members pay yearly dues and in exchange gain access to unique listening sessions throughout the year. All of the artists at these shows are 100% local and are fairly paid for the gig.

With that money, Black Fret provides grants to a set number of artists as voted by the members. Every year this number’s increased, along with the grant values. Not only do winning artists receive their funds (to be used and allocated for music related endeavors), they receive counseling and mentorship from industry pros.

This year, in spite of the pandemic and the financial turmoil caused by it, Black Fret will be awarding over $200,000 in grants to twenty artists. And they’ll all be present and performing during the Black Ball. In what’s been aptly labeled as “a real life mix tape”, each artist will perform two to three songs between the awards. Take it from someone’s who’s been to a few Black Ball’s – it’s an amazing showcase of our vibrant and diverse music community.

And the Winners Are…

Zach Person performing at the Long Center during a Black Fret event in May 2021. (credit: Bill Tucker)

This year’s list of grant awardees could be one of the best in recent memory. If you’ve never heard of these artists, check out my Black Ball 2021 Spotify playlist to get a feel for all of them:

  • American Dreamer
  • BLK Odyssy
  • Clarence James
  • Darkbird
  • Deezie Brown
  • Eimaral Sol
  • Guy Forsyth & Jeska
  • Harry Edohoukwa
  • Jake Lloyd
  • James Robinson
  • Jon Muq
  • Jonathan Terrell
  • Lisa Morales
  • Motenko
  • Nane
  • Pat Byrne
  • PR Newman
  • Primo the Alien
  • The Reverent Few
  • Zach Person

I’m Sold! How Do I Attend Black Fret Black Ball 2021?

Daniel Sahad of Nane performs during a 2021 Black Fret showcase. (credit: Bill Tucker)

The Black Ball is a private event for Black Fret members, guests, sponsors, and former recipients. But that doesn’t mean you’re out in the cold! The best way is becoming a member. Doing so is easy. With three tiers of access (single, duo, and party), you can get in on the fun for not only the Black Ball, but a year’s worth of exclusive music experiences. I’ve been attending Black Fret events for well over 6 years and some of my most cherished show memories come from those performances.

And if you want to attend without committing to a membership, single event tickets are available for $100 at blackfret.org/donate. Just add “Black Fret Ball 2021 Donation” to the comments and you’re in!

Whether you sign up for a membership or attend the event as a first timer, you’re doing an immeasurable service to the Austin music community. The past year’s been hard on our local talent. Anything we can do to support them not only through our listenership but financially proves Austin is still the Live Music Capital of the World.

And, in the end, the Black Ball is an absolute blast. I’ve always described it as an Austin music homecoming where past and current winners meet up under a cool December sky and celebrate this great community. More a hang than a show, the Black Ball is one of my musical highlights of the year. I highly encourage you to make it yours as well.

For music-related and other fun events in the Austinot area, bookmark our weekly updated Things to do this Week & Things to do this Weekend guides

And to get these updates delivered directly to your feed, give us a follow on Facebook by clicking the …next to the search lens icon

Top 10 Live Music Venues in Austin

by Leave a Comment

While the world’s still wrestling with the realities of COVID-19, our music community is still a great place to experience live music in Austin. Whether it’s classic joints or new, hip locations, music is best enjoyed with a crowd of people. Here’s ten of our favorites.

NOTE: In light of the ongoing pandemic, it’s important to note not every venue has a firm mask policy in place. Restrictions can change show to show at the behest of the artist, so be sure to call ahead before attending any performance and PLEASE stay safe.

Best Live Music Places in Austin, Texas

1/ Mohawk

Megafauna Black Fret
Megafauna rocked Black Fret’s 2108 season opening show at Mohawk. (credit: Bill Tucker)

My favorite Red River club never disappoints. With a unique multi-tiered amphitheater outside and a more intimate stage inside, Mohawk is great for multiple band showcases. It also has solid cocktails and great craft beer, a rarity in many rock clubs. And their lineup is a wonderful mix of local favorites and national acts. A must visit venue.
Located: 912 Red River, Austin, Texas

2/ The Parish

CAPYAC Band at The Parish in Austin
The Parish (Credit: Katie McDowell Photography)

From the layout to the sound to the location, The Parish always manages to impress, especially during busy events like SXSW. Striking a delicate balance of intimate and roomy, there’s ample space to navigate, grab a drink at the bar, and check out some live music.

And while its location smack dab in the middle of Sixth Street may be a turn-off for some, I’d still recommend braving the crazy to check out some exceptional shows.
Located: 214 E. 6th Street Austin, TX 78701

3/ Empire Control Room & Garage

Taylor Muse Playing Empire Control Room
Taylor Muse rocks the Empire Control Room on February 22nd. (credit: Holp Photography)

Another multi-stage live music venue in Austin, Empire Control Room & Garage’s sweet location and exceptional selection of artists make it a fine place to visit for the evening, and get barraged by awesome music. This is where I was first introduced to Quiet Company and CAPYAC, among others, so it holds a special place in my heart. Even the relatively tiny Control Room puts on great shows with high-quality sound. Highly recommended.
Located: 606 E. 7th Street Austin, TX 78701

4/ Continental Club

Continental Club South Congress
The Continental Club on South Congress Avenue (Credit: Jim Nix/Nomadic Pursuits)

Old school Austin is rapidly deteriorating in the face of urban sprawl and gentrification. The small yet sensational Continental club is one of our enduring musical landmarks. More than a time machine to the days of Stevie Ray Vaughn and Joe Ely, The Continental Club’s intimate layout brings the music close to the listener, providing an experience like none other.
Located: 1315 South Congress Avenue – Austin, Texas

5/ Swan Dive

Dream Attics On Stage
Dream Attics takes the Swan Dive stage during their first ATX show. (credit: Katie McDowell)

A lovely blend of dive bar snarl with an elegant smirk, Swan Dive produces great shows with a laid back vibe. During SXSW, this is one of my go-to’s to discover new acts and dig exciting music. Add to the mix a spacious backyard second stage and there’s no reason to avoid this Red River mainstay.
Located: 615 Red River St. Austin, TX 78701

Check out these deals on upcoming concerts in Austin

Best Live Music Places in Austin – Continued

6/ Hotel Vegas

TC Superstar SXSW 2019
TC Superstar performing at the Hotel Vegas during SXSW 2019. (credit: Bill Tucker)

Never mind the punk rock aesthetic, the eclectic schedule, or the incredible sound. Hotel Vegas just feels like an Austin venue. One of the spots I’d sob over if it ever went under, Hotel Vegas is another “must visit” if you need to check out an East Austin show. TC Superstar at Hotel Vegas during SXSW 2019 was a highlight of my festival experience that year and it wouldn’t have been the same at any other venue.
Located: 1502 E. 6th Street Austin, TX 78702 

7/ Cheer Up Charlies

HOVVDY plays Cheer Up Charlies during SXSW 2018 (credit: Bill Tucker)

Another perennial live music favorite in Austin, Cheer Up Charlies has a heart for local talent. From midnight performance by Moving Panoramas to Mobley’s label signing celebration, Cheer Up lifts up ATX artists in a major way. Just last week, Mamaduke, Melat, Felt Out, Van Mary, and CAPYAC graced their stages. Proof enough Cheer Up Charlies loves locals!
Located: 900 Red River St. Austin, TX 78701

8/ Broken Spoke

The Broken Spoke Austin Dancehall

Call me basic all you like, The Broken Spoke kinda rules. One of the few legit dance halls left in our fair town, The Spoke may feel like a tourist trap, but spend an evening dancing with the regulars, and your tune will change. At the center of the documentaries, the museum, and the chicken fried steak, are kind hearted people who love the art and connection of a good two-step. And if I didn’t convince you, check out The White Horse.
Located: 3201 S. Lamar Blvd. Austin, Texas 78704

9/ Antone’s

Antone’s stage hosts some of Austin’s best blues. (credit: Marco Figueroa)

Now in it’s 6th iteration, the modern day Antone’s carries the legacy of its former locations with an awesome blend of blues club cool and ATX weird. Surprising for what’s essentially a rectangular room, the acoustics are astounding. And while most of the shows are ticketed, it’s worth popping in after work to check out their amazing house band. Legend for a reason!
Located: 305 E 5th Street Austin, TX 78701

10/ ACL Live at The Moody Theater

Singer Eric Burton of Black Pumas
Singer Eric Burton of the Black Pumas performs during the Austin City Limits taping at ACL Live on August 28, 2019 in Austin, Texas. [Suzanne Cordeiro for AUSTIN360]

Another live music Austin pick that feels like cheating. Checking out an ACL Live taping is an experience and much of that vibe is thanks to the venue. The acoustics are unrivaled, every seat is a good one, and the artists are first rate. It’s considered an honor to play the Moody and the fact we have an iconic venue on our backyard is something to be respected and appreciated.
Located: 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701

Stay up to date on the latest on Austin music scene by bookmarking our Music page!

And if you want these type of updates delivered directly to your feed, give us a follow on Facebook by clicking the …next to the search icon lens.

Entry to ACL 2021 will require negative COVID test or proof of vaccination

by Leave a Comment

The iconic ACL Fest sign looks stunning at night. (credit: Bill Tucker)

ACL Festival Organizers announced that they will need either a negative COVID test or proof of vaccination for entry. 2021 ACL is scheduled for October 1-3 and 8-10 and will be held at the Zilker Park

According to information published on the website – The negative COVID-19 printed test result must be obtained within 72 hours (3 days) of attending ACL Festival.  Patrons who are fully vaccinated may show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination instead of proof of negative test.  

Information related to masks will be released closer to the festival dates. 

ACL 2021 Entry Procedures – COVID & Other

  • Comply with the ACL Festival Fan Health Pledge
  • Each day, bring a printed copy of your Negative COVID-19 test, Vaccine Card, or Vaccine Record.
  • Bring your Festival Wristband
  • Please also remember our updated bag policy – CLEAR BAGS ONLY – and NO liquids are allowed to be brought into ACL Festival.

ACL 2021 Festival Fan Health Pledge – COVID Guidelines

Do not attend the festival if any of the following is true for you or anyone in your party

  • Within 14 days before attending the festival you have tested positive, or been exposed to someone who has tested positive for, COVID-19;
  • Within 48 hours prior to attending the festival, you have experienced symptoms of COVID-19 (e.g., a fever of 100.4F or higher, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking muscle pain/achiness, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, nasal congestion, runny nose, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue or any other symptoms associated with COVID-19 identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
  • Within 14 days prior to attending the festival, you have travelled to any international territory identified by federal or applicable state or local governments as being subject to travel or quarantine advisories due to COVID-19.

For news related to music scene in Austin, bookmark the Music page of the Austinot

Black Fret Keeps Live Music Alive With a New Festival

by Leave a Comment

Nakia SXSW 2018 Black Fret
Nakia enlivened an amazing Black Fret showcase during SXSW 2018. (credit: Bill Tucker)

For more than eight years, Black Fret supported the Austin music community with an unstoppable sense of purpose and accomplishment. When COVID brought live music to a near standstill, many of us wondered who would step up and take a stand. Black Fret came to the table and their brand new music festival, “Keep Live Music Alive,” is the comeback party we’ve been asking for since March of 2020. And with news of the 2021 class of grant nominees around the corner, there has never been a better time to become a member and support the music.

Doing The Right Thing Since 2013

Matt and Colin Black Ball 2018
Colin Kendrick (L) and Matt Ott (R) pose before the 2018 Black Ball (credit: Bill Tucker)

Founded by Colin Kendrick and Matt Ott in 2013, Black Fret aims to support the local music scene through member support. Members pay a flat fee that goes toward yearly grants. In return, members get access to unique, intimate listening room style performances. Every year, members nominate twenty artists to receive either a minor ($5,000) or major ($20,000) grant. The year culminates in the Black Ball, a sensational awards show and concert blowout at the Moody Theater. I’ve been to multiple Black Balls over the years, and trust me. They are experiences!

And while COVID kicked the Austin live music scene in the gut, Black Fret fought back with the Happy Hour Concert series. The program paid out over $250,000 to over 150 musicians for playing shows for companies and businesses over Zoom. It’s that sort of innovation that helped Black Fret stay helpful and relevant during the pandemic.

How’s this for numbers? To date, Black Fret has awarded $2,000,000 to local musicians and $1,500,000 to Austin-area venues and music businesses. Every artist playing a Black Fret showcase gets paid as does every venue. And for the first time, this year’s season dues is $750. While that may seem steep, it’s a hefty discount from years past. And consider the amount of live shows you get exclusive access to, along with knowing you’re supporting the art that keeps Austin the “Live Music Capital of the World. It’s a donation worth considering if you have the means to do so.

The Keep Live Music Alive Festival

Buffalo Hunt during the Black Fret SXSW 2021 showcase.

Now that COVID restrictions are relaxing enough for Austin to dip its collective toe back into live music, Black Fret is launching its first membership drive of the season in the form of a festival. The “Keep Live Music Alive” festival will take place from May 14-16th at the Long Center Terrace. While the event is listed as members only, single-day tickets are available for non-members. But that’s not the point. With an incredible lineup to offer, becoming a member is the best way to experience this three-day extravaganza.

The jam packed schedule reads like a who’s who of new Austin music. While ATX staples like Ley Line and Darkbird make me smile, I’m dying to check out Zach Person. I’ve heard nothing but good things about this local up-and-comer. The full schedule is as follows:

Day 1Time
Eimarl Sol4:00
Darkbird4:45
Mike Melinoe5:30
Miggy Milla6:15
Zach Person7:00
Buffalo Hunt7:45
Nane8:30
Day 2
Night Blooms3:00
Motenko4:00
Ley Line4:45
Clarence James5:30
Lisa Morales6:15
Harry Edohoukwa7:00
American Dreamer7:45
Sam Houston & Blk Odyssy8:30
Jake Lloyd9:00
Day 3
Special Tribute to Bob Dylan11:00 AM
Jon Muq2:00
Casey McPherson3:00
Dom Fisher3:45
Pat Byrne4:30
J Soulja5:15
Matt the Electrician6:00
The Reverent Few6:45
Deezie Brown7:30

Looking Forward to the Season Ahead

Austin band Motenko performing during Black Fret’s SXSW 2021 showcase.

And the festival is a jumping-off point. On June 11th via a private event at the Moody Theatre, Black Fret will announce this year’s class of artists. After months of live shows, the season will culminate in this year’s Black Ball on December 4th. As a fan of this wonderful organization, it’s great to see it up and running as intended: promoting and stewarding Austin live music. And if Black Fret’s re-emergence is the goal, the Keep Live Music Alive festival is its proof of concept.

“Black Fret is all about supporting our local music as the art that it is and we thank the Long Center for hosting our first ‘Keep Live Music Alive’ festival,” said Matt Ott, Co-founder of Black Fret. “COVID knocked our music community on our collective ass and it is time for us all to come together to support our artists, venues, and vendors that create our amazing music ecosystem in Austin. Joining Black Fret is a great way to accomplish that.”

When the music community was sucker-punched by COVID over a year ago, it hit everyone hard. From artists to venues and everyone in between, it was a time of uncertainty and anxiety. Despite it all, Black Fret continued to do what it does best—provide a lifeline to Austin’s cherished and storied music scene when it needed it most. And with this weekend’s celebration, the Austin music community hopes to turn the page on the year that was, and look forward to a great season of sounds ahead.

To become a member and attend the festival, visit https://www.blackfret.org/klma/ for everything you need to do so.

@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:

Ever been to a Black Fret event? Tell us about your experience!

Top 5 Personal Takeaways From SXSW Online 2021

by Leave a Comment

JaRon Marshall performing during the KUTX The Breaks showcase at SXSW Online 2021

And just like that, it was over. Rather than a ten day marathon of sights, sounds, and showcases, SXSW Online 2021 concluded in five. It was different and while I still long for the traditional SX experience, this year’s event was full of innovations that made it feel like home. In fact, some of these should stick around for years to come.

[Read more…]

10 Must-see Austin Artists at SXSW Online 2021 Music Festival

by 2 Comments

Electric guitar resting on an amplifier, overlayed with the title "Top 10 Must-See Austin Artists at SXSW Online 2021".

With SXSW Online 2021 only days away, it’s time to celebrate the local artists who keep Austin well represented in the music showcase schedule. Due to the restrictions of the online format, there are 280 artists on the roster, 32 of which hail from the 512. And while each artist will get limited time due to the condensed showcase, it will be a great opportunity to take in a wide variety of music in a small amount of time. As I do every year, here are my Top 10 must-see Austin artists at SXSW Online 2021. But first, some notes!

[Read more…]

Everything You Need to Know About the Music Side of SXSW Online 2021

by Leave a Comment

This will be a strange one for me. For the last five years, I took four days off from my 9 to 5 and ran around downtown Austin listening to music. Day parties, Black Fret showcases, 2 AM listening sessions. All exhausting, all exhilarating, all inspiring. It’s the journalistic highlight of the year.

This year, I’ll be doing the same from the coziness of my computer. While checking out a showcase, I’ll be able to burp my six month old. Instead of ducking into my favorite sanctuaries for meals, I’ll hit the fridge. But rather than be bummed, I’m intrigued and excited. In service to the artists who made the festival what it is today, SXSW is delivering innovative ways for musicians to perform in what’s hopefully a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic. Here’s everything you need to know to join in on the fun.

[Read more…]

Mobley’s Newest EP Wraps Powerful Themes in Fun, Danceable Music

by Leave a Comment

Mobley's newest EP, "Young & Dying in the Occident Supreme"
(credit: Mobley + Juice Consulting)

I love watching artists evolve. When I first met Mobley in 2016, he was a bubbling-under one man pop powerhouse. Exuding charm, charisma, and musical chops to spare, Mobley turned a rain-soaked Spiderhouse anniversary show into a mad dance party.

Five years later, Mobley has grown from man with the music to man with a message. Philanthropist, activist, and social commentator, this dynamic artist is using his influence and talents to not only create gorgeous music but say something meaningful with it. And his latest six-song opus, “Young & Dying in the Occident Supreme,” is the next evolution for one of Austin’s brightest stars.

[Read more…]

Vote in the Austin Chronicle 2020 Music Poll

by Leave a Comment

Austin Music Awards 2020
Cast your vote in the 2020 Austin Music Poll.

When we think back on the local music scene in 2020, it’s easy to be disheartened. The ongoing pandemic crippled the live music scene. Venues closed, artists suffered, and while a steady stream of in-house livestream concerts helped soften the blow, there’s nothing like experiencing music with a crowd of people.

But take heart! Austin music remained strong and prolific in the face of COVID-19. New music from nearly every beloved artist flooded our fair city and what better way to celebrate than Austin Chronicle’s yearly Music Poll? A great opportunity to not only vote for your favorite artists but discover new ones, this year’s poll is a who’s-who of local favorites. As a primer, here’s how to get involved, some of the key categories, and five of my personal picks. The choice is yours!

Exercise Your Right to Choose

Like everything during the pandemic, this year’s Austin Music Poll needed to adapt with the times. The Chronicle team slashed the normal slate of categories from the usual 50 to a trim 20. The team also jettisoned the genre categories (except for best Hip Hop) in favor of 2020-centric awards like Best Livestreaming Artist and Best 2020-Themed Song.

Polling is open until February 1st and can be done via their official website. And some of my picks are…

My Five Cents

Singer Eric Burton of Black Pumas singing at ACL Live in 2019
Singer Eric Burton of the Black Pumas performs during the Austin City Limits taping at ACL Live on August 28, 2019 in Austin, Texas. [Suzanne Cordeiro for AUSTIN360]

Band of the Year

  • …And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead
  • Black Pumas
  • Sam Houston & Blk Odyssy
  • Ley Line
  • Sit Woman

My Take: While Black Pumas will most likely walk away with this one (that Grammy nomination never hurts), I would love to see Ley Line take the gold here. This year’s “We Saw Blue” is a sensational collection of soul-stirring world music incorporating influences from a dozen cultures and climates. Ley Line is the embodiment of what we need as a society right now. Sounds and rhythms from around the world combined to create something beautiful and welcoming.

Musician of the Year

  • Gina Chavez
  • Jake Lloyd
  • Walker Lukens
  • Mobley
  • Jackie Venson

My Take: AlthoughI adore every artist in this category, you can’t deny what Jackie Venson did this year. She released four albums, performed on ACL Live, and pioneered weekly livestream sessions when COVID hit. All the while, successfully fighting for social equality in the Austin music community by curating an All Black Blues on the Green concert. And she’s still one of the best guitarists in Austin. An exceptional woman who more than deserves this honor

Blackillac playing on the VRBO stage at the 2019 ACL Music Festival.
Blackillac dominated the VRBO stage during ACL Fest 2019 (credit: John Cabuena/Flipintex Fotos).

Hip Hop Artist of the Year

  • Blackillac
  • Deezie Brown
  • Kydd Jones
  • Magna Carda
  • The Teeta

My Take: This is an insanely tough category. You could make an argument for every artist on this list, but I’m going to buck tradition and go Blackillac. ZEALE and Phranchyze’s one-two lyrical punch is one of my favorite musical tricks and this duo pulls it off beautifully. Plus “6 Ringz” is a straight-up banger.

Album of the Year

  • “End the Summertime F(or)ever” – Botany
  • “Candy Blue Like Screw” – Deezie Brown & EC Mayne
  • “Welcome to Hard Times” – Charley Crockett
  • “2020” – Eliza Gilkyson
  • “Primates” – Greyhounds
  • “We Saw Blue” – Ley Line
  • “My Love is a Hurricane” – David Ramirez
  • “Skeleton” – Skeleton
  • “The New Sounds of Late Capitalism” – Star Parks
  • “Trinidad” – Sweet Spirit
  • “The Quarentine” – The Teeta
  • “Vintage Machine” – Jackie Venson

My Take: Why oh why must you give me 12 choices! Taking away Ms. Venson and Ley Line, as I already picked them for an award, I’m still left with a wealth of good options. Despite some wavering, I keep returning to Star Parks for my best album of the year. Laid back, lo-fi, and steeped in late 60’s Brian Wilson-esqe songcraft, “The New Sounds of Late Capitalism” is a fantastic listen front to back. But, this is an incredibly good list to pick from.

Mobley's new single, "James Crow," is a must-listen.
Mobley’s latest single, “James Crow” will be the cornerstone of his new record, “Young & Dying in the Occident Supreme,” due out 2/19/2021 (credit: Juice Consulting)

Song of the Year

  • “Revolution” – Heartless Bastards
  • “IDK” – Tameca Jones
  • “James Crow” – Mobley
  • “Karen O” – Sun June
  • “Walk with Me Austin” – Adrian Quesdada w/various artists

My Take: With love to all the nominees, this one’s no contest. The first time I heard “James Crow” from Austinot favorite Mobley, I knew it was a keeper. It’s a prime example of everything he does well. Take emotionally charged subject matter, wrap it into an addictive dance jam, and attach a world-class video to the whole ensemble. The result is an instant earworm that, in a fair and just world, would be a Top 40 hit.

“Walk With Me Austin” is important, and “IDK” absolutely slaps, but “James Crow” ticks all the boxes as a standout track in an uncertain year.

And the Winners Are…

In a normal year, the winners would be announced during the Austin Music Awards as a kickoff to SXSW. Although it’s unlikely an in-person event will be possible, the Chronicle promises something special to celebrate the deserving winners.

Whether that’s a traditional livestream or something with a bit more flavor, there’s no doubt the capstone to an incredibly odd year for the Austin music community will be one to remember. Make sure your voice is heard: Vote today!

@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:

Who are you voting for in this year’s Austin Music Poll?

How Austin Musicians Are Riding Out the Pandemic with Creativity

by 2 Comments

Ms. Mack and the Daddies spent time apart so they could do a short livestream together last month.
Ms. Mack & the Daddies spent time apart so they could do a short livestream together last month (credit: Ms. Mack & the Daddies).

2020 has beaten us all up. Most of us are exhausted, struggling in one way or another, physically, mentally, or financially, and Austin musicians are no different.

Without live music shows or venues to play in, how have our local musicians made do? How have they stayed afloat and on their fans’ minds? How have they dealt with releasing long-awaited albums without a tour to support it? How have they flexed their creative muscle?

I’ve asked a few of my musician friends these same questions. Hopefully, their answers can inspire all of us or introduce you to some fabulous new music and performers that shone brightly in 2020, despite the all-too-familiar obstacles that this year has placed in their way.

[Read more…]

Recent Posts

Welcome to The Austinot

We are all about Austin: the vibe, the people and the uniqueness of the city. We love to explore. Get to know us! We’ll respond if you comment. Heck, we’ll probably invite you to come and hang out with us!

Follow along to help support and learn more about local businesses, artists, and events.

-The Austinot Team

Privacy Policy