Last night, the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) hosted its 15th annual Corporate Battle of the Bands event, a live stage competition where employees from local companies ditch their professional attire for a chance to rock out and vie for the title of Austin's Best Corporate Band. The event, held at ACL Live at the Moody Theater, not only showcased the musical talents of Austin's corporate scene but also raised funds for a vital cause: providing affordable health care to the city's low-income, working musicians.
It's a night that blends melodies with philanthropy, as these corporate band members, who usually spend their days in offices, find themselves in the limelight strumming guitars and hitting high notes, the real winner of the event is the music community that stands to benefit from the health care services that HAAM facilitates. "Pretty special for us, and knowing that all the money that’s being raised is going to a good cause that’s part of what makes our city special," Bobby Chesney, one of the participants, told KXAN in a statement that reflects the spirit of the event.
The evening also included a silent auction filled with exclusive items and experiences, each donated by supporters of HAAM. From private concerts to unique memorabilia, the auction offered another avenue for attendees to contribute to the cause. The competition and auction, combined with additional donations, act as a lifeline for Austin's musical heart and soul, enabling healthcare to be more accessible for artists in need.
For those who may not know, HAAM plays a critical role in the Austin music scene; they have taken measures to make health care affordable for musicians who might otherwise be left without, so when they say that last year's event raised "$260,000" and turned that into "1.9 million worth of health care services, dental, hearing exams, just everything to keep our musicians healthy, live and performing for the benefit and pleasure of all of us," as explained in a KXAN interview, it’s clear that events like the Corporate Battle of the Bands are not just about good tunes, they’re about keeping Austin's music scene alive and thriving.
The night buzzed with energy as major corporations including Silicon Labs, PNC Bank, and H-E-B showcased their hidden musical prowess, with awards for best song, stage presence, fan favorite, and more. The competition serves as a reminder and celebration of Austin's dual identity as a business hub and music capital, where even the executives can hit a mean riff for a good cause. The doors opened at six o'clock, and without missing a beat, the music kicked off at 7 PM, paving the way for what was both a memorable and meaningful Austin night.
