|
(L-R) Taylor Rae and Sam Hodgson, Ali Holder, Jack Barksdale, Amanda Pascali, Los Enmascadaros, Ley Line
Texans Throw Down at Folk Alliance International
The Texas Music Office proudly presented The Texas Throwdown, the Official Texas Music Showcase at the Folk Alliance International Conference in New Orleans on Saturday, January 24. The showcase drew a full house and featured standout performances from Ley Line, Amanda Pascali, Ali Holder, Los Enmascarados, Jack Barksdale, and Taylor Rae, each delivering inspired sets that highlighted the depth, diversity, and creativity of the Texas music community.
Beyond the official showcase, Texas artists and organizations made a strong showing throughout the conference. Additional private showcases hosted by Hear Fort Worth, Austin-based Comboplate Booking, and organizations including The House of Songs and Under The Rock further amplified the state’s presence, underscoring Texas’s continued influence and leadership within the national and international music scenes.
 MusicFest's Robin and John Dickson(L) TMO Director Chip Adams (R)
TMO Celebrates 40 Years of MusicFest
The 2026 MusicFest at Steamboat in Steamboat Springs celebrated a remarkable 40th anniversary of bringing Texas-style roots, country, and Americana music to the slopes and stages of Colorado. Over the week of January 5–10, attendees enjoyed hundreds of hours of live performances in scenic venues, with outdoor concerts, matinees, and specialty shows drawing fans old and new to the snowy mountain town. As part of the festivities, Texas Music Office Director Chip Adams played a prominent role by hosting the festival’s “Artists’ Tribute to a Legend” honoring songwriter Paul Overstreet—a centerpiece event where fellow artists performed his timeless songs and shared stories of his impact on country music.
In a highlight of the celebration, Chip presented John and Robin Dickson of Dickson Productions with a letter of recognition from the State of Texas, signed by Governor Abbott, in honor of their dedication to building and sustaining the festival over four decades. The recognition underscored MusicFest’s cultural significance and the Dicksons’ role in making it one of the most enduring and beloved music gatherings in the country. This acknowledgment, combined with memorable performances and community spirit, helped make the 2026 edition a standout chapter in the festival’s storied history.
Marcia Ball Honored in Austin
“Home with the Armadillo – A Tribute to Marcia Ball,” held January 29 at the historic Paramount Theatre in Austin, was a vibrant and deeply moving salute to one of Texas music’s most beloved icons. Benefiting H.O.M.E. (Housing Opportunities for Musicians and Entertainers), the evening featured standout performances by The Firedogs and The HOME Band, joined by an all-star lineup including Shelly King, Ruthie Foster, Emily Gimble, Akina Adderley, Carolyn Wonderland, and many more. Together, the artists honored the heart of Marcia Ball’s music, blending Texas soul, blues, and roots into a seamless, electrifying experience that resonated throughout the theater.
The night also included a special recognition from Graham Weber of the Texas Music Office, who presented Ball with a letter celebrating her lifetime achievements and named her a Yellow Rose of Texas for her lasting contributions to the preservation and promotion of Texas culture. The tribute culminated in a joyful, full-stage performance of “London Homesick Blues,” led by legendary songwriter Gary P. Nunn. More than a concert, the evening felt like a homecoming—one that celebrated not only an extraordinary career, but a cultural legacy that continues to inspire generations.
(Photos: D. Foster)
|
Jambaloo Returns to DFW
Jambaloo Music Festival returns February 7–15, 2026, turning North Texas into a week-long celebration of live music, culture, and creative connection. With showcases and performances spread across multiple venues, Jambaloo is known for spotlighting an eclectic mix of established headliners, rising regional talent, and genre-blending artists that reflect the depth of the Texas music scene. Festival highlights include high-energy roots and Americana acts, boundary-pushing indie and alternative artists, and late-night sets that have become a signature of the Jambaloo experience, making it a must-attend event for fans and industry alike.
Kicking off the festival, the Jambaloo Symposium will take place on Saturday, February 7 at Tulips in Fort Worth, bringing together some of the most influential voices in North Texas music for a full day of conversation, insight, and community building. Designed as a hub for artists, industry professionals, and music lovers, the symposium will feature panels and discussions on the current and future state of music, including a special appearance by TMO Director Chip Adams. Together, the festival and symposium set the tone for a powerful week dedicated not just to performances, but to connection, collaboration, and the continued growth of the music community.
|
