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St Patrick’s Day 2022 in Austin – Verified, Local Food Deals & Drinks Specials!

March 17, 2022 by Clarett C. Leave a Comment

St Patrick's Day Couple at Jack & Ginger's in Austin — Austin St Patrick’s Day 2022 – Food Deals & Drinks Specials – Image Credit: Jack & Ginger’s Facebook Page

Happy St Paddy’s Day 2022! If you are looking for the best St Patrick’s Day Food Deals and Drinks Specials in Austin, you are in the right place! We have you covered with our curated and Verified list of discounts and special offers.

St Patrick’s Day Food

The most famous food for St. Patrick’s Day is the corned beef and cabbage dish along with shepherd’s pie. There’s also Irish Soda Bread, Irish Stew, Irish Coffee, Colcannon, Crubeens, Irish Seafood Chowder and more! For a full list of traditional Irish foods for St. Paddy Day check out this link from the Oprah Daily.

Remember to Check Out Our Post On – St Patrick’s Day 2022 Events & Parties in Austin

The Venue ATX Girls Dancing on St Paddy's Day — St Patrick’s Day in Austin – Image Credit – The Venue ATX Facebook page

St Patrick’s Day 2022 in Austin – Verified Food Deals & Drinks Specials

VerDay at Trudy’s Tex Mex

Located at: 8820 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757

Trudy's St Patrick Day Green Baggiachis

Trudy’s Tex-Mex is going “Verde” this St. Paddy’s Day to celebrate Austin FC! Wear your verde and get lucky with $6 House Margs, Jameson Mexi-Marts, a Game Ticket raffle, “Baggiachis” (mariachi/bagpipe duet), and great prizes and giveaways including AUSTIN FC shirts! Drink specials run all day on Thursday, March 17th. Baggachis play at Trudy’s North Star starting at 5:30pm, and Trudy’s South Star at 7:30pm

Nosh & Bevvy

Location: 8440 Burnet Rd Austin, TX 78757

A neighborhood pub that brings old Austin Back, with some down home hospitality! Come and join us for an exciting event opening at 2 pm for some St. Patty’s fun!

Rev elry Kitchen and Bar

Location: 1410 E 6th St Austin, TX 78702

Be sure to come out for our Big St. Patty’s day party! Lots of drink specials all day and of course we have green Jell-O Shots. Open at 12pm for all the March Madness fun. Take off of work or take a long business lunch. The streets will be packed with good times.

$5 Saintly Sips at Applebee’s

Applebee’s is starting St. Patrick’s Day early with its latest $5 Saintly Sips. They also have their Tipsy Leprechaun, their take on a L.I.T. with a St. Patrick’s Day twist, and the Pot O’ Gold Colada, a frozen piña colada made with Captain Morgan and mango. Plus, guests can enjoy Saintly Sips To-Go at participating locations.

Shamrock Macchiato from Dunkin’

Shamrock Macchiato from Dunkin

Available now for a limited time, the new Shamrock Macchiato layers bold, smooth espresso atop rich and creamy Irish Creme flavor, with notes of sweet cream and vanilla that capture the unmistakable flavor profile of Irish whiskey. Featuring a bright green hue, this festive and seasonal drink captures the experience of spring with every sip.

Shamrock Shmear from Einstein Bros. Bagels

Shamrock Shmear from Einstein Bagels

On Thursday, March 17 (for one day only), guests can add a Shamrock Shmear (special green plain cream cheese) to any fresh-baked bagel for a festive breakfast. The Shamrock Shmear offer is available for in-store orders (not available in Order Ahead) and can be added to any of the variety of fresh-baked bagels available in the bagel case.

Barbarella Austin

Located at: 611 Red River Street Austin, TX 78701 –

Tomorrow St. Patty’s Day, @nowy2k presents 𝑺𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝑺𝒐 𝑳𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒚 a Y2K Bangers All Nite! Doors @ 9pm | $5 for first 50 | $10 after | $20 @ midnight. VERY limited capacity so come early.

Happy Hour Specials Through the Week at Kona Grill

Kona Grill St Patrick Day Specials

Book your reservation for our week of St. Patrick’s Day specials at Kona Grill, available Monday, March 14th through Friday, March 18th. Enjoy Happy Hour Specials like $6 Corned Beef Sliders ($19 on Dinner Menu) and $3 Green Beer, Saké & Seltzer.

Green Donuts for St Patrick’s Day at Krispy Kreme

Image for Pot O' Gold

For two days only on 3/16 and 3/17, our Original Glazed® doughnut will go GREEN! Don’t risk being pinched, bring a limited-edition box containing a dozen green O’riginal Glazed doughnuts with you to your celebrations. Pre-order on 3/14 and 3/15 and secure your St. Patrick’s Day luck.

Deal Alert: 79% Discount on 15 pack of Fruity & Slightly Sweet Wines!

76% Off Fruity and Slightly Sweet Wines from Splash Wines

Pack of 15 wines features up to eight different whites that are slightly sweet and perfect for the spring and summer season.

St Patrick’s Day 2022 in Austin – Verified Food Deals & Drinks Specials – Continued

Jack & Ginger’s Irish Pub

Location: 11500 Rock Rose Ave Austin, TX 78758

St Patrick's Day Couple at Jack & Ginger's in Austin — Image Credit: Jack & Ginger’s Facebook Page

Back bigger & better than ever! Mark your calendars for Thurs, March 17th for an all-day street festival on Rock Rose! Get your fill of green beer, Irish & American comfort foods, live music, and bagpipes to celebrate our favorite holiday.

Shamrock Shake® & OREO® Shamrock McFlurry® at McDonald’s

Shamrock Shake at McDonald's

Shamrock Season Is Back! The wait is over—the creamy, dreamy Shamrock Shake® and OREO® Shamrock McFlurry® are back, but not for long. Get them before they’re gone.

Saxon Pub

Located at: 1320 S Lamar Blvd Austin, TX 78704

If you are in Austin come get your Irish on at The Saxon Pub at 6pm with Andrea Magee and her full band “Belfast Girl” band Dave Scher, Michael Anthony Davila & Josh Arredondo. We are looking forward to celebrating with them! We have your green beers cold and ready!

Grasshopper Shake at Ruby’s Diner

Grasshopper Shake at Ruby's Diner

Shake it up! March’s special at Ruby’s is the Grasshopper Shake, which features creamy vanilla soft serve blended with refreshing mint and tasty Oreo cookie crumbs – we’re drooling just thinking about it!

St. Paddy’s Day Costume Party & Irish menu specials at Twin Peaks

St Paddy Costume Party at Twin Peaks

Tops off for the first day of our St. Paddy’s Day Costume Party. We’re feeling extremely lucky to have such spirited fans and menu features like the Irish Trashcan and Irish Car Bomb. What’s more Irish than that?

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SXSW Music 2022 in Austin – 10 Must-see Local Artists

March 5, 2022 by Bill Tucker Leave a Comment

SXSW Music 2022 In Austin – Top 10 Local Artists

SXSW Music 2022 is almost here and like every year, I have profiled 10 of the very best local artists!

After two years of cancelations and virtual showcases, the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals is back with a howling vengeance. On the music side of the fence, nearly 2,000 artists are about to descend upon our fair city, over 200 of them hailing from the ATX. A whirlwind of music and discovery, SXSW 2022 is primed to be one of the ages.

To celebrate SXSW’s triumphant return, I’ve compiled my yearly Top 10 Austin artists you simply must see at this year’s festival. As always, here’s the rules!

This list is in alphabetical order.
As always, I only pick bands and artists I’ve never featured in my yearly list or cover extensively on this site. You can read my yearly lists here: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021

SXSW Music 2022 In Austin – Top 10 Local Artists

1/ Adam Ostrar

Upon first listen, you’d be tempted to label Adam Ostrar as a 60’s folk throwback. Give a few songs, and you’ll learn that’s only a piece of the puzzle. By combining Americana folk with a Texas twang, Ostrar’s sound is familiar as it is unique. “Take It Back” shuffles a groove though an urgent Dylan-esqe Bleecker Street bop while “Kansas City” is the sort of subtle storytelling that helped me fall in love with the genre. A wonderful artist worth exploring and enjoying at your earliest opportunity.

2/ Blackillac

Blackillac dominated the VRBO stage during ACL Fest 2019 (credit: John Cabuena/Flipintex Fotos).

Ever since I saw Zeale perform at 3Ten ACL Live in 2017, I knew I’d follow him anywhere. Who knew, one year later, he’d join forces with flow-master Phranchyze and create one of Austin’s finest one-two punches. Their latest record, “Indigo Room” is chock full of bangers. “Like Me Tho” sways and swags along a minimalistic beat while “Viral” comments on our current state of social media obsession with style and flow. Don’t sleep on Blackillac, y’all. Should be toward the top of your SXSW schedule.

3/ Calliope Musicals

Carrie Fussell Calliope Musicals SXSW 2019 — Carrie Fussell of Calliope Musicals performing during SXSW 2019. (credit: Bill Tucker)

It’s an inexcusable crime Calliope Musicals hasn’t made a single SXSW list of mine (aside from superlatives). A nitro blast of color, power, and musical joy, Carrie Fussell’s band of renegade glam jammers is uniquely sensational. Let the dirty bass growl of “Color/Sweat” lead you into the maelstrom, swirl about via the string blasted groove of “That’s Why We Dance”. When ready, escape to relative normalcy with their latest single, “Dr. Pepper”. And see them live for heaven’s sake. You’ll thank me later.

4/ Jon Muq

Jon Muq performing at the Moody Theater in 2021 for the Black Fret Black Ball. (credit: Bill Tucker)

Some artists connect the minute you hear their music. Other require a live setting before appreciation takes hold. For me, Jon Muq slots into the latter. All it took was two songs at the 2021 Black Fret Black Ball to turn me into an insta-fan. Cloying yet powerful, Muq’s unique vocals reach into untold emotional depths and return touching truths and vivid images. While originals like “Always Remember Us This Way” demonstrate the full range of Muq’s skills, his cover of “Skinny Love” by Birdy is inspiring. An artist I can’t wait to experience again on the SXSW stage.

5/ Kydd Jones

Austin hip hop is enjoying a long deserved Renaissance. And when you think about the MCs leading the charge, Kydd Jones deserves to be in the conversation. His latest record, “Onyx d’Or”, is a the musical equivalent to a collection of short stories. Of its 16 tracks, high marks go to the laid back bumper “Sprinter” and “Sam’s Club” a percussion specked chill track featuring the incomparable Jackie Venson. An MC of exquisite flow and rockstar chops, Kydd Jones continues to fuel the ATX hip hop revival with skill and swag.

Remember to check out my previous years’ lists – 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021

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

SXSW Music 2022 In Austin – Top 10 Local Artists – Continued

6/ Motenko

Motenko performing a the 2021 Black Fret Black Ball at the Moody Theater. (credit: Bill Tucker)

By blending Motown, blues, funk, and nearly every other influence known to man, Micah Motenko’s sound is a joy to listen to. Tunes like the soulful “On Your Level” features Motenko’s trademark piano tickling while “The Thief” grooves through subtle drum work, mellow keys, and pointed lyrics of loss and regret. Another artist that begs to be experienced live, Motenko delivers a special brand of vibes that’s rare and special.

7/ Primo the Alien

Primo the Alien performing at the 2021 Black Fret Black Ball at the Moody Theater. (credit: Bill Tucker)

Before seeing her live at the Black Fret Ball, I considered Primo the Alien a talented songwriter who crafts infectious pop tunes from a Crayola box of sounds and influences. After, she’s a primal force of nature. By using the backdrop of 80’s synth to create new and exciting music, Primo transcends the modern new wave genre. And the woman can belt like with the best in the ATX. One of my favorite artists to emerge in the last five years and a must see during SXSW 2022.

8/ Sir Woman

Kelsey Wilson of Sir Woman preforming at the 2020 Austin Music Awards. (credit: Bill Tucker)

Make no mistake. Kelsey Wilson is an Austin music treasure. Once a side project of Wild Child, Sir Woman has grown into a powerhouse with their own groove and soul. Wilson’s effortless and playful vocals shine on the lovely “Highroad” while their latest release, “Get What You Want”, layers strings, jazz bar piano and sparse guitar to create a touching 70’s soul jam. I’ve been lucky to see Wilson perform numerous times, and each time isn’t just a new experience. It’s an evolution. Required listening and attending for SXSW attendees.

9/ Sun June

Sun June Band — Sun June’s moody, melancholy indie rock is as thoughtful as it’s soothing. (credit: Bryan C. Parker)

Indie pop is a wide and often strained genre. Built from a quilt of influences and styles, bands get lost in the label. Sun June stands out from the crowd with pointed lyrics and cloudy afternoon vibes. Vocalist Laura Colwell’s dreamy, evocative sighs and coos buoy subtle bops and beats. “Bad girl” tells a mournful short story about an escape to the Big Easy while “Everything I had” ups the tempo and emotional temperature in equal measure. Sweetly dour pillow pop well suited for wistful gazes from bedroom windows and contemplative moments. Absolutely adore.

10/ We Don’t Ride Llamas

Sometimes, you need a little growl in your day and this ferocious foursome delivers in a major way. “The Flies” transforms a nasty punk rift into a sonic head nodder while their latest single, “Venus & Mars”, is an infectious funk earworm complete with a hella tight guitar line and smooth as silk vocals. A band I predict great things for and can’t wait staying up late to check out during SXSW 2022.

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

December 2, 2021 by Bill Tucker 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.

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Top 10 Live Music Venues in Austin

August 30, 2021 by Bill Tucker 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

Concert — Photo by Pien Muller on Unsplash

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

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

August 19, 2021 by Austinot Contributor 1 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.

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Black Fret Keeps Live Music Alive With a New Festival

May 12, 2021 by Bill Tucker 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 1	Time
Eimarl Sol	4:00
Darkbird	4:45
Mike Melinoe	5:30
Miggy Milla	6:15
Zach Person	7:00
Buffalo Hunt	7:45
Nane	8:30
Day 2
Night Blooms	3:00
Motenko	4:00
Ley Line	4:45
Clarence James	5:30
Lisa Morales	6:15
Harry Edohoukwa	7:00
American Dreamer	7:45
Sam Houston & Blk Odyssy	8:30
Jake Lloyd	9:00
Day 3
Special Tribute to Bob Dylan	11:00 AM
Jon Muq	2:00
Casey McPherson	3:00
Dom Fisher	3:45
Pat Byrne	4:30
J Soulja	5:15
Matt the Electrician	6:00
The Reverent Few	6:45
Deezie Brown	7:30

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

March 28, 2021 by Bill Tucker 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.

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

March 13, 2021 by Bill Tucker 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!

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

March 9, 2021 by Bill Tucker 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.

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

February 24, 2021 by Bill Tucker 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.

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