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Texas Music Update - A monthly newsletter from the Texas Music Office, Office of the Governor
SEPTEMBER 2025 EDITION
south regional meeting
 

SOUTH REGION MUSIC FRIENDLY TEXAS MEETING!

 

The South Region Music Friendly Texas Meeting, held on August 7, 2025, brought together music industry professionals, advocates, and local leaders from Corpus Christi, Bandera, San Antonio, Rockport, and Port Aransas for a full day of connection and collaboration in New Braunfels. Kicking off with breakfast at the historic Gruene Mansion Inn, the meeting began with a welcome from the Texas Music Office, followed by an inspiring keynote from Carlos Alvarez, a Latin Grammy Award–winning producer and influential figure in the regional music scene. Attendees also heard from the SIMS Foundation, with Derrick Lesnau and Sarah Andrews presenting vital mental health resources for musicians.

After a short break, participants engaged in an open roundtable discussion focused on regional music development and collaboration. A visit to the iconic Gruene Hall allowed for a bit of sightseeing and photo opportunities before reconvening for lunch at the Phoenix Saloon, a landmark venue in downtown New Braunfels. The day concluded with a Texas Music Incubator Rebate (TMIR) session, offering valuable insights into funding and support opportunities for local music venues and professionals. Overall, the meeting fostered a spirit of unity and forward-thinking within the South Region’s vibrant music community.

We at TMO would like to thank our local liaison, Sammie Martinek from the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, for putting together a wonderful and productive day, as well as Ross Fortune and his staff at the Phoenix Saloon for their hospitality and for hosting.

 

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HONORING FLACO JIMENEZ

 

smaller flaco

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steve at flaco

On Thursday, August 7, 2025, hundreds gathered at the Carver Community Cultural Center in San Antonio for the “Final Curtain Call” public memorial service honoring the life of Flaco Jiménez. The beloved Tejano and conjunto legend, known worldwide for his mastery of the accordion and his role in popularizing Tex-Mex music, was remembered with deep emotion and heartfelt celebration. The event drew fans, musicians, and community members who came together to reflect on the extraordinary impact Jiménez had on music and culture.

The memorial featured moving tributes from family members, fellow artists, and civic leaders who spoke of Jiménez’s generosity, humility, and musical genius. Stephen Ray spoke on behalf of the Texas Music Office. Anecdotes from his early days in San Antonio to his global performances painted a vivid picture of a man who remained rooted in his community while reaching audiences around the world. Musical performances throughout the evening echoed his legacy, with local and national musicians playing some of his most iconic songs, bringing both tears and applause from the audience.

As the night came to a close, a final all-star accordion jam of ""Viva Seguin," "a famous song written by his father Santiago Jimenez Sr., which served as a powerful farewell. Attendees stood together, many swaying and singing along, as the Carver Center resonated with the rhythms that defined a lifetime. The “Final Curtain Call” not only celebrated Flaco Jiménez’s remarkable achievements but also underscored the lasting influence he left on generations of musicians and fans. It was a touching and unforgettable tribute to a true Texas icon.

 

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tmir recap

TMIR Tour Wraps Up and 2025 Applications Open

 

The Texas Music Office (TMO) successfully wrapped up the “TMIR Texas Tour” in August, concluding a months-long effort to promote the Texas Music Incubator Rebate (TMIR) Program across the state. Kicking off in Galveston in May, the tour made impactful stops in cities including Abilene, Amarillo, Brownsville, College Station, Edinburg, El Paso, Harlingen, New Braunfels, Odessa, San Antonio, Salado, Waco, and finished in Lubbock on August 27. At each stop, TMO Program Specialist Jaclyn Zapata led informational sessions designed to educate music venue owners and festival promoters on how to access up to $100,000 in rebates through the program.

The TMIR sessions offered detailed, step-by-step guidance on how eligible applicants could claim rebates on mixed beverage gross receipts taxes or sales taxes from beer and wine sales. Attendees benefited not only from the practical information shared but also from the opportunity to connect with fellow music advocates, venue operators, and festival organizers. Open Q&A sessions allowed for deeper discussion and personalized assistance, creating an engaging, collaborative atmosphere that empowered local stakeholders to take advantage of the program’s financial support.

With the TMIR Program officially renewed for another two years and backed by $20.2 million in dedicated funding, the Texas Music Office is continuing its commitment to supporting the venues and festivals that sustain the state’s live music ecosystem. The next application window opened on September 1 and closes on September 30. TMO extends its heartfelt thanks to all the partners and Music Friendly Texas Community liaisons who helped amplify awareness of the tour and the program in their local areas. Their support has been vital in ensuring that Texas music continues to thrive.

Click the link below for more information on TMIR and application link. 

 

Learn More [ [link removed] ]

 

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waterloo

(L-R) TMO Director Chip Adams, Caren Kelleher, John Kunz, Kathy Marcus, Nagavalli Medicharla (Chair of Austin Music Commission), and Trey Watson.

Celebrating Waterloo Records New Location

 

On August 31, 2025, Waterloo Records celebrated the grand re-opening of its iconic store at a new location, marking a fresh chapter for one of Austin’s most beloved music institutions. Music fans from across the city gathered to commemorate the occasion with live performances, giveaways, and a renewed sense of community centered around Austin’s deep musical roots. The new space maintains Waterloo’s familiar spirit while introducing updated features to enhance the record-shopping experience. Now under the ownership of Caren Kelleher and Trey Watson, the re-opening symbolized both continuity and growth, as the store enters a new era while honoring its legacy.

The celebration featured a moving tribute to longtime owner and founder John Kunz, whose decades of dedication built Waterloo Records into a cornerstone of Austin’s cultural identity. In a special moment, Nagavalli Medicharla, Chair of the Austin Music Commission, presented Kunz with a proclamation from the City of Austin, officially recognizing August 31 as "Waterloo Records Day". The honor reflected not only Kunz’s lasting influence but also the store’s role in supporting local artists, hosting live music events, and shaping Austin’s reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World.”

The event also received statewide recognition when Texas Music Office Director Chip Adams presented an official letter of recognition on behalf of the State of Texas to John Kunz. The recognition celebrated Kunz’s legacy and highlighted Waterloo Records’ contributions to the state’s music industry, acknowledging its place as a cultural institution that has uplifted Texas artists for over four decades. With new leadership, community support, and honors from both city and state, the grand re-opening was a powerful reminder of Waterloo Records’ enduring importance in Texas music history—and its promising future ahead.

 

Learn More [ [link removed] ]

 

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lss

Lone Star Shindig at Americanafest 

 

Get ready for the Lone Star Shindig at AmericanaFest on Thursday, September 11, 2025! Presented by Kessler Presents, Longhorn Ballroom, Prekindle, and the Texas Music Office, this Texas-sized party takes over the Rooftop Lounge at the Bobby Hotel in Nashville, TN. Starting at noon, the event showcases some of the best Texas talent in Americana music, delivering authentic sounds and soulful performances that capture the spirit of the Lone Star State. The lineup features standout artists like Reckless Kelly, Ruthie Foster, Joshua Ray Walker, Summer Dean, Rosie Flores, West Texas Exiles, Jonathan Terrell, Nicky Diamonds, and Presley Haile.

This free and open-to-the-public event is the perfect way to experience Texas roots music in the heart of Tennessee. While an RSVP is requested, note that if the venue reaches capacity, priority will be given to AmericanaFest badge and wristband holders. Whether you’re a die-hard Americana fan or just looking for great live music, the Lone Star Shindig delivers a vibrant showcase full of passion, storytelling, and the unmistakable Texas vibe. Don’t miss your chance to join the party and soak in the sounds of Texas under the Nashville sky!

RSVP [ [link removed] ]

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Upcoming Events

*September 23  *
*HAAM DAY *
Austin
more info [ [link removed] ]

*September 27*
*SEXT Music Jam*
Vidor
more info [ [link removed] ]

*September 28*
*Cowtown Strong Festival*
Fort Worth
more info [ [link removed] ]

*October 3 - 4*
*4th Annual Big Bend Bluegrass Festival*
Alpine
more info [ [link removed] ]

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Since 1990, the Texas Music Office (TMO), in the Governor’s Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office, has fostered the economic development of Texas music businesses, Texas musicians and Texas communities. TMO operates an extensive network of certified Music Friendly Community partners across the state, serves as a clearinghouse for Texas music industry information, acts as a liaison between music businesses and government offices, publicizes significant industry developments and attracts essential music industry to the Lone Star State. A vibrant Texas music industry supports local job creation while drawing visitors from around the globe, attracting a talented workforce across industries and supporting business recruitment and expansion efforts throughout the state.

State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Texas Music Office
Texas Music Office • P.O. Box 12428 • Austin, Texas 78711 • (512) 463-6666

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