The shifting tides in the Texas music industry are set to stir as Chip Adams is poised to step in as the new helmsman of the Texas Music Office (TMO), raising hopes for a new chapter in the state's music saga. Adams, an Austinite and music industry vet, will replace outgoing director Brendon Anthony, who announced his departure effective May 6th. Widely respected, Anthony leaves behind a legacy of nearly a decade's worth of contributions to the Texas music scene, having assumed the director's chair back in 2015.
Adams, known for his past stewardship of independent label Modern Outsider Records and more recent role as TMO's community relations and outreach specialist, is set to to quickly take over the role next week. His work with the Music Friendly Communities program has stood out, driving efforts to earmark services and create greater recognition for local music economies. It's an office that has significantly influenced economic activity to the tune of over $26 billion statewide. According to the Austin Monitor, Marc Fort, a musician and former TMO marketing and communications specialist, praised Adams' understanding of the music business's many facets throughout Texas.
Anthony, too, left an indelible mark during his time as director, instrumental in the launch of the statewide live music incubator program – a boon for live venues with tax refunds available up to $100,000. His collaborative work paved the way for performance rights organizations like Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI) to anchor down in Austin, strengthening the city's role as a nexus for musicians across Texas.
Anticipating Adams' start, Mitch Ballard, BMI Texas executive director of creative, expressed his confidence to the Austin Monitor in Adams' capabilities to effectively serve the diverse community of Texas musicians. "He has proven his ability to take a program and to expand it and grow it to where it creates an even stronger infrastructure for the music economy here in Texas," Ballard stated. Similarly, Pat Buchta, CEO of the Austin Texas Musicians advocacy group, highlighted his hope for expanding the TMO's educational resources, noting Adams' deep industry experience and understanding of musicians' and venues' struggles.
In his own parting words, Anthony expressed his pride in the TMO's accomplishments and his anticipation to continue contributing to the Texas Music Industry. "It has been my absolute honor and privilege to serve," Anthony wrote in an open letter, as per the Texas Music Office. With Adams at the helm, the state's music office is braced for continued excellence in championing the vibrant music scene Texas is known for.
