If you've spent any time in the ATX, you've no doubt heard Austin's self-proclaimed slogan, dubbing itself the “live music capital of the world." The title comes from a 1991 effort by city leaders, based on the number of live music venues the city boasts. While anyone can give themselves a nickname, the ability to keep it is the real test, and Austin's had no trouble in that regard. Since getting the prestigious title, Austin's live music scene has only grown, creating unmatched opportunities for musicians, fans and students alike.
This opportunity is no doubt what makes Austin's music scene so unique. Austin has dozens of live music venues both downtown and throughout the city. When walking down Sixth Street, Austin's downtown headquarters for music, drinks, food, and fun, one can hear at least a dozen different acts going on any night of the week. Unlike in other cities, however, these acts play at bars and venues with no covers and low prices. Furthermore, scoring a gig at one of them isn't a chore like in other major cities. With these easy gigs and cheap prices, the ATX attracts those looking to experience music and get into the business like nowhere else.
Just about a mile up the road from Sixth Street sits the University of Texas, with its student body of roughly 50,000 and one of the best academic music programs in the world. With all that is going on around music in the city, music students have the opportunity to take advantage of both worlds, academia and music, and to integrate the two.
Along with attracting hundreds of start-up bands, Austin also features more prominent artists and has even been the long-time home of country music icon Willie Nelson. It attracts stars like Nelson to play at its larger music venues. Any top musician who has toured in the U.S. has no doubt visited Austin during their career, stopping at the Frank Erwin Center, Bass Concert Hall, or Austin City Limits.
In a city of musicians, the culture of Austin is not surprisingly unique. “Keep Austin Weird" is another nickname given to the city, adopted by the Austin Independent Business Alliance in 2000, and has had no trouble sticking either.
Austin's a place where you just can't ever get bored. It's full of interesting, talented people who always seem to have something exciting going on, many of whom have moved to the city from other parts of the state, nation and world. It's a very accepting place, where people can pursue their passions and be revered for it, and where the opportunity exists for them to do so. You can find people specializing in just about anything in Austin, along with a lot of people simply kicking back and enjoying the ride.
When you meet new Austinites, at least half the time they'll go on about how great the city is compared to wherever they moved from. It's something people can't help. It's just what the city does to them. So if you're looking to experience live music around every corner, in a city with the opportunity for just about anyone to reach their goals and have a good time doing so, give the ATX a visit. I promise that you won't be disappointed.
