Texas Music Office

SAVE THE DATE!!!!

The 2026 Texas Sounds & Cities Conference will take place November 5–6, 2026, in Dallas, Texas, bringing together music industry professionals, community leaders, artists, venue operators, and advocates from across the state. Presented by the Texas Music Office and the Dallas Music Office, the conference serves as a forum for collaboration, education, and discussion on strengthening Texas' music ecosystem.

Throughout the two-day event, attendees will hear from industry experts and participate in panel discussions covering topics affecting Music Friendly Texas Certified Communities and the broader music industry. Sessions will also explore issues impacting live music venues, artists, and music-related economic development, providing valuable insights, networking opportunities, and best practices for communities and music professionals across Texas.

Galveston THIS FRIDAY!

There's still time to register for the Texas Music Incubator Rebate Program (TMIR) Informational Session hosted by the Texas Music Office.
If you own or operate a Texas music venue or promote music festivals, join us in Galveston to learn about eligibility requirements, the application process, and how eligible applicants can receive up to $100,000 in rebates.
Whether you're considering applying for the first time or returning for another application cycle, this free session is a great opportunity to ask questions and hear directly from the Texas Music Office.

Date: August 14, 2026
Time: 10:00–11:30 AM
Location: Hotel Lucine, Galveston

Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/texas-music-incubator-rebate-program-info-session-tickets-1988025387450
Galveston Island
Hotel Lucine
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The Tejano music community is grieving the loss of longtime San Antonio radio personality Earl "Uncle Earl" Hudson, who died in a tragic auto accident. Lopez Broadcasting, owner of KLMO-FM, confirmed his passing on Saturday, August 1, describing Hudson as a loyal, passionate, and caring member of the station's family whose kindness and dedication left a lasting impact on colleagues, listeners, and the South Texas community. Best known as "San Antonio's favorite Tío," Hudson became one of the most recognizable voices in Tejano radio thanks to his infectious energy, larger-than-life personality, and signature catchphrase, "¡Eso! BOOM!"

For years, Hudson entertained audiences as host of Tejano Hits and co-host of The Hottest Night on Tejano Radio, where he championed both legendary performers and emerging Tejano artists. Beyond the airwaves, he was deeply involved in community outreach through KLMO's charitable initiatives, including toy drives and local fundraisers, earning widespread respect as an ambassador for Tejano music and South Texas culture. Following news of his passing, tributes poured in from fellow broadcasters, musicians, and fans who remembered his warmth, generosity, and unwavering support of the genre. Hudson leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to resonate throughout the Tejano community for years to come.

Next Weekend in Lockhart!

The inaugural Lockhart Jazz Crawl is bringing three days of incredible live jazz to downtown Lockhart August 14–16! O'Donnell's, Nightshade Art Gallery, and The Case Room have teamed up to create a weekend celebrating the vibrant jazz scenes of Lockhart and Austin, with Collin Shook of Monks Jazz Club helping curate an outstanding lineup of musicians. Featuring artwork by , this first-of-its-kind crawl is the perfect excuse to grab a friend, explore all three venues, and experience some of Central Texas's finest jazz artists.

The weekend kicks off Thursday, August 14 with Denis O'Donnell (5:30 PM) at The Case Room, followed by DJ Marc Fort (5 PM), KISSA (6 PM), and Andre Hayward (8 PM) at Nightshade Art Gallery. On Friday, August 15, catch Emily Gimble (6 PM) at Nightshade Art Gallery, then head to O'Donnell's Lockhart for Candler Wilkinson (8 PM), Denis O'Donnell (9 PM), and Datura (10 PM). The crawl wraps up Saturday, August 16 with Hailey Tuck (2 PM) at O'Donnell's Lockhart and the Case Room Trio (7 PM) at The Case Room. Join us for an unforgettable weekend of live jazz, great art, and community in the heart of Lockhart!

Today we’d like to recognize our own Steve Ray on his 25th anniversary at the Texas Music Office!

Steve is a proud Texas native whose lifelong passion for music, culture, and the arts has made him a respected figure throughout the Lone Star State. A recent graduate of Berklee College of Music, Ray combined his formal music education with a deep appreciation for Texas' diverse musical traditions, building a career dedicated to supporting artists and preserving the state's rich musical heritage. Originally from Vernon, he has remained committed to celebrating the people and sounds that define the state's unique cultural identity.

For 25 years, Ray has served with the Texas Music Office, where he played an instrumental role in promoting the Texas music industry, supporting musicians, venues, festivals, and communities across the state. Throughout his career, he became a trusted advocate for artists of every genre, helping strengthen Texas' reputation as one of the world's premier music destinations. His knowledge, professionalism, and genuine enthusiasm earned him the respect of colleagues, industry leaders, and musicians alike.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ray is widely recognized as a longtime friend and supporter of the Tejano music community. He has championed the genre and its artists, celebrating the cultural significance of Tejano music and its enduring influence on Texas. An avid vinyl collector, Ray's love for recorded music extends far beyond his career, reflecting a lifelong appreciation for the stories, history, and artistry preserved in every record. Whether promoting Texas music, connecting with artists, or searching for the next addition to his record collection, Stephen Ray's dedication to music continues to inspire those around him.

Steve Ray

Segura Fest 2026 takes place on Saturday, August 8, at Pearland Town Center, located at 11200 Broadway St., Pearland, TX 77584, bringing a full day of live music, family-friendly entertainment, and community fun. This free event features performances by Grupo Retro, 5to Vuelo, Grupo Anexxado, El Compa M, and Grupo Selección, offering an exciting lineup of regional music for attendees of all ages. Admission and parking are free, making it an easy outing for families and music fans alike.

Guests can enjoy free giveaways throughout the day, including cowboy hats for the first 150 attendees, tacos for the first 300 guests, and sponsor prizes while supplies last. Visitors ages 21 and older with valid identification can also sample complimentary tequila from Casa Maestri Tequila and purchase beverages through Tapville. With live entertainment, food, giveaways, and activities for all ages, Segura Fest 2026 promises a memorable celebration in the heart of Pearland.
Visit Pearland

The City of Heath proudly celebrated its designation as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community during a special certification ceremony held on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at the Towne Center Park Amphitheater Stage. The event recognized Heath's commitment to supporting local musicians, fostering music-related economic development, and creating opportunities for live music to thrive throughout the community.

The official Music Friendly Texas Community certification was presented by Gini Mascorro of the Texas Music Office, marking an important milestone for the city. Community leaders, residents, and visitors gathered to commemorate the achievement and celebrate Heath's growing role in Texas' vibrant music scene, reinforcing the city's dedication to arts, culture, and community engagement.

City of Heath, TX

One week away!

There's still time to register for the Texas Music Incubator Rebate Program (TMIR) Informational Session hosted by the Texas Music Office.

If you own or operate a Texas music venue or promote music festivals, join us in Galveston to learn about eligibility requirements, the application process, and how eligible applicants can receive up to $100,000 in rebates.

Whether you're considering applying for the first time or returning for another application cycle, this free session is a great opportunity to ask questions and hear directly from the Texas Music Office.

Date: August 14, 2026
Time: 10:00–11:30 AM
Location: Hotel Lucine, Galveston

Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/texas-music-incubator-rebate-program-info-session-tickets-1988025387450?aff=oddtdtcreator

Galveston Island
Hotel Lucine

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Celebrate the sounds and culture of the Caribbean at the Houston Reggae Summer Fest on Saturday, August 8, from 3:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Hermann Square (900 Bagby, Houston, TX 77002). Held in the heart of downtown Houston, the festival brings together music lovers for an afternoon and evening filled with reggae, dancehall, soca, and Afrobeats, creating one of the city's biggest Caribbean celebrations of the summer.

The festival will feature local and national DJs, a variety of Houston-area food vendors serving Caribbean-inspired flavors, full-service bars, and a lively outdoor atmosphere designed for dancing and community. With thousands of attendees expected, Houston Reggae Summer Fest offers an energetic experience that showcases Caribbean music, culture, and cuisine while celebrating the vibrant diversity of the Houston community.

Heatstroke Festival debuts as a new week-long music festival presented by KXT 91.7 at Tulips in Fort Worth, Texas, running from Saturday, August 1, through Saturday, August 8, 2026. Showcasing more than 15 North Texas artists across a variety of genres, the festival celebrates the region's vibrant local music scene with nightly performances throughout the week. Opening night features The Quaker City Night Hawks, Christian Carlos Carvajal, and Desert Folk, while Tuesday's special "$2 Tuesday" spotlights Oatmeal Pizza and The Bikini Whales with a $2 cover charge.

The music continues Wednesday with Hen & The C***s, Heavy Petal, and The Infamists, followed by Thursday performances from Phantomelo, Ayden Trammell & The 40 Stories, and Primo Danger. Friday's lineup includes J. Isaiah Evans & The Boss Tweed, Sheprador, and a special guest, before the festival concludes on Saturday, August 8, with MEACH HARVEST, a benefit show curated by Meach Pango featuring Cut Throat Finches, Cherry Mantis, and Ryker Hall in support of Big Thought Dallas. Heatstroke Festival offers music fans a week of diverse live performances while highlighting the talent and creativity of North Texas musicians.

Tulips FTW
KXT