News Summary
The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) is launching a new monthly digital music series called ‘Texas Sounds’ to celebrate Texas’s musical heritage. Designed to connect with the local community, the initiative highlights influential musicians and their impact on the state’s music scene. The series kicked off with a tribute to Texas music legends and will continue to feature various playlists each month, celebrating different themes and genres.
San Antonio Gets Groovy with UTSA’s New “Texas Sounds” Digital Music Series!
Hey there, music lovers of San Antonio! Buckle up because the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) is bringing some serious tunes to your screens with their brand-new monthly digital music series called “Texas Sounds.” Launched in January 2025, this exciting initiative is all about celebrating the rich musical heritage of our great state, Texas. So, grab your headphones and get ready to jam!
What’s the Buzz About “Texas Sounds”?
The aim of this engaging series is to connect with our local community while exploring the deep cultural roots that pulse through Texas’s musical veins. With a fun mix of YouTube playlists, “Texas Sounds” focuses on influential musicians who have shaped the state’s vibrant music scene over the years. Got some time to spare? Dive into these playlists to learn about the artists who made Texas sound like Texas!
Meet Jason Longoria: The Brain Behind the Series
This exciting project is the brainchild of Jason Longoria, a UTSA graduate and a bona fide expert on Texas music history. His extensive knowledge and passion for the subject really make “Texas Sounds” stand out. Longoria has been actively involved in promoting our cultural heritage and has served on important boards, including the Conjunto Heritage Taller and the South Texas Museum of Popular Culture. His impressive insight adds a layer of depth to the series that you won’t want to miss!
Honoring Texas Talent: A Tribute to Artists
The launch of “Texas Sounds” kicked off with a heartfelt tribute to Texas legends who passed away in 2024. The first playlist features an incredible 11 songs, spotlighting iconic figures like Kinky Friedman and Kris Kristofferson. It’s a perfect mix of nostalgia and celebration as we honor these talented artists who left their mark on Texas music.
February’s Tribute for Black History Month
As we stepped into February, “Texas Sounds” kept the energy going by focusing on San Antonio’s rich jazz and swing history in honor of Black History Month. The playlist this time has 13 tracks that showcase the fantastic talents of pioneering artists. You’ll want to start with Don Albert & His Orchestra, a powerhouse that significantly influenced the early jazz scene in San Antonio.
Now, let’s take a trip down memory lane. Don Albert was also the proud owner of the legendary Keyhole Club, a must-visit venue back in the day! Nestled in the heart of the city since November 3, 1944, the Keyhole Club was the place where musical legends like Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole, and Louis Armstrong graced the stage. Talk about a musical history milestone!
Exciting Changes at the ITC!
In addition to the awesome launch of “Texas Sounds,” the Institute of Texan Cultures (ITC) is making waves with some changes. After receiving the green light from the state, they are relocating their collections to a temporary space at Frost Tower. Sadly, this means the demolition of their previous location at Hemisfair, but fear not! The ITC continues to work tirelessly to preserve and share Texas’s rich cultural heritage.
So, What Are You Waiting For?
It looks like there’s no better time than now to immerse yourself in the sounds of Texas! Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or just dipping your toes into the music world, “Texas Sounds” promises something for everyone. Keep an eye out for new playlists each month and let the rhythm of Texas take you on a wonderful journey!
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Additional Resources
- KSAT: UTSA’s Digital Music Series
- Express-News: Hard Rock Cafe Opening
- San Antonio Current: Live Music This Week
- Axios: Juneteenth Events Guide
- Express-News: Sex Pistols at Randy’s Rodeo
- Google Search: Texas Music History
- Wikipedia: Jazz
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Music
- Google Scholar: Texas Music
- Google News: Texas Music Events
