Austin’s Power
Austin, Texas. In grade school, I learned that it’s the capital of Texas. Only recently, did I learn that it’s considered the Live Music Capital of the World. As a matter of fact, the music industry in Austin amounts to 1 billion dollars… so there is an Austin Music Office to handle business. With approximately 200 live music venues around town (including the airport), you can catch a live performance around the clock. The few bands that I had the opportunity to watch were amazingly talented. I thought, “Why aren’t these guys in LA playing the old Roxy or Key Club or Rainbow Room?” Then I had a V-8. (Remember that V-8 commercial?) It’s more like the other way around. Everyone seems to flock to Austin, or wants to flock to Austin, for the music scene in hopes of launching a music career.
South By Southwest (SXSW) is a relatively young festival at just 25 years old, yet it gives the Sundance film festival a run for its money. Originally showcasing music, the 5 day event held around spring time, has become a magnet for indie film makers. And let’s not forget the 1800 bands that make the pilgrimage as well. Austin City Limits is strictly a music thing. The 3 day festival is a showcase for 100 of the best of the best. There’s also the tv show- where Pearl Jam, Coldplay, and Austin’s pride, Stevie Ray Vaughan, made appearances at one time or another in their illustrious careers.
More on Austin’s sight and sounds in this week’s SJR webisode:
