Back in the Swing: Blues on the Green Returns After a brief hiatus that had Austin music lovers on the edge of their seats, Blues on the Green is making a triumphant return to the city's summer calendar. The swift action taken to revive this beloved event is a reminder of how quickly things can move when the community and local businesses, like H-E-B, along with city officials, pull together. Thanks to the efforts of Austin City Limits Radio and a resolution by the Austin City Council, spearheaded by District 1 Council Member Natasha Harper-Madison, the festival is not just back but promises to be better than ever. The Community's Rally for Music The initial announcement in January by ACL Radio that Blues on the Green was canceled sent shockwaves through the community. This staple of Austin's summer at Zilker Park, known for bringing free music to the Great Lawn, faced financial difficulties that seemed insurmountable. The community's response was immediate, with many questioning why a small entry fee wasn't considered or why assistance wasn't sought from the City of Austin. It didn't take long for the city council to respond, drafting a resolution that not only addressed the immediate concerns of Blues on the Green but also looked to safeguard and promote similar events in the future. A Resolution for the Future of Free Entertainment The resolution adopted by the city council goes beyond just saving Blues on the Green; it lays the groundwork for supporting and enhancing free and low-cost entertainment options in Austin. Highlighting the festival's role in enriching the city's cultural identity, the resolution points to the importance of such events in engaging residents, attracting diverse audiences, spurring economic development, and providing educational opportunities in the music industry. Notably, it references the new Music Business Certificate Program at Huston-Tillotson University, showcasing the city's commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring the vibrancy of its music scene. Moving Forward: Blues on the Green and Beyond With the resolution in place, the City Manager is tasked with exploring the potential for Blues on the Green to become a city co-sponsored event. This directive opens the door for more events like it, setting a precedent for how the city can support its cultural events. Council Members Natasha Harper-Madison, Paige Ellis, Zohaib ''Zo'' Qadri, and Ryan Alter have shown their commitment to maintaining Austin's status as a live music capital, ensuring that free and accessible music remains a cornerstone of the city's identity.

Local Legends Take the StageSXSW 2024 is set to showcase an array of talent from around the globe, yet it's our own Austin musicians who are gearing up to steal the spotlight. This year, a mix of eclectic, homegrown artists are on the bill, each ready to leave their mark on the world stage. Here's a rundown of local acts that promise unforgettable performances. TC Superstar: A Synthwave SpectacleCatch TC Superstar lighting up Zilker Brewing at 10:20 p.m. on March 13. This collective, led by Connor McCampbell, merges bedroom pop with an 80s vibe, complemented by high-energy dance routines. It's a full-sensory experience not to be missed. Redbud: Indie Psych-Pop VibesMidnight on March 16 at Esther’s Follies welcomes Redbud. Fronted by Katie Claghorn, this group delivers catchy psych-pop melodies perfect for any mood. Their sound, rich with guitar and synth, earned keyboardist Stacie Agnew top honors at last year's Austin Music Awards. Big Wy’s Brass Band: Funky Jazz FusionThe Elephant Room will come alive with the sounds of Big Wy’s Brass Band at 11 p.m. on March 16. Founded by Wyatt Corder, this ensemble knows how to bring the funk and jazz, ensuring a night filled with rhythm and groove. Tameca Jones: Soulful SerenadesTameca Jones is set to enchant at The Grackle at 10 p.m. on March 14. Her soulful voice and dynamic performances have made her a standout in the Austin music scene, blending powerful vocals with smooth melodies. Skateland: Alt-Pop InnovationDorian Williams II, aka Skateland, brings his alt-pop prowess to Zilker Brewing at 8:40 p.m. on March 13. His music offers a fresh take on pop, filled with rich arrangements and compelling lyrics. Being Dead: Psychedelic Rock RhythmsExperience the unique sound of Being Dead, a psychedelic rock trio that plays with surf rock and harmonious vibes. Catch them at Hotel Vegas and The 13th Floor for a journey through musical landscapes. Como Las Movies: Cumbia Meets Synth-PopComo Las Movies combines cumbia and synth-pop for a sound that's utterly captivating. See them at The Grackle at 9 p.m. on March 15 for a set that's as cinematic as it is musical. Navigating SXSW Music Festival 2024 Your Guide to the Ultimate Music ExperienceSXSW Music Festival is where the music world comes together, featuring a lineup of nearly 1,200 artists from various genres. To join in from March 11-16, snag a Music Festival Badge for $945 or opt for a Music Festival Wristband at $169 for a mix of music and comedy showcases. It's your ticket to discovering the next big thing in music.

Peso Pluma: The Meteoric Rise of a Mexican Music Phenomenon At just 24, Peso Pluma isn't just a name in the music industry; he's quickly becoming a legend. With more monthly listeners on Spotify than icons like Beyoncé, this Mexican superstar is setting the stage ablaze, proving that age is but a number when it comes to monumental success. His upcoming North American tour, which includes a much-anticipated stop in Austin at the Moody Center on July 19, is the talk of the town for every music lover. Éxodo Tour: A New Chapter Following the phenomenal success of a 54-show sell-out and a Grammy win for his album "Génesis," Peso Pluma's Éxodo tour is set to mesmerize fans across more than 35 cities, including a significant presence in Texas. With stops in Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Houston, the tour is showcasing an entirely new setlist and stage design, promising fans an unforgettable experience drawing from his rich discography of three studio albums. Austin Awaits Peso Pluma The Moody Center in Austin is gearing up for what's expected to be one of the highlights of its event calendar. With the buzz around Peso Pluma's performance growing louder, fans are eagerly awaiting the chance to see him live, especially those who've only experienced his electrifying presence through his live albums. Ticket sales timelines have been announced, with a range of pre-sale options leading up to the general sale, ensuring fans have ample opportunity to secure their spot. Tour Schedule Highlights Peso Pluma's 2024 tour dates are a testament to his widespread appeal, kicking off at Chicago's Suenos Festival and winding through major cities across North America. Each stop, from the bustling streets of New York to the sunny shores of Miami, and not forgetting the grand finale in cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix, is poised to be a showcase of Peso Pluma's incredible talent and stage presence.