The City of Angleton has been officially recognized by the Texas Music Office (TMO) with a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community status after completing a comprehensive certification program. Governor Greg Abbott confirmed the city's new standing, acknowledging the role that music plays in the local economy and its significance within Texan culture, according to the Office of the Texas Governor's recent press release.
“Music is key to the Texas brand and is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of our great state,” said Governor Abbott, who congratulated Angleton for its efforts to nurture local music industry talents and initiatives. He highlighted that communities certified by the TMO work to attract music-related economic development and, job creation across Texas. With support from TMO, the state's music sector fuels over 192,000 jobs and brings in more than $26 billion annually. “Together, we will continue to work alongside communities in every region of our state to build a bigger, better Texas,” Abbott stated.
Local leaders, including Senator Mayes Middleton and Representative Cody Vasut, have supported Angleton's music scene, noting the positive impact that comes with such recognition. “Angleton’s Music Friendly Texas Community designation will bolster the local music industry and bring more music-related industry to our community,” Middleton said. Vasut acknowledged local investments into the music scene that have now been honored with the new designation.
Angleton is demonstrating a commitment to fostering a vibrant music scene, as expressed by Angleton Advisory Board Member Jim Luna of QMP Productions. “The recognition itself will open more doors and opportunities for our community to grow with music, creating new avenues for artists and businesses alike,” Luna told the press. Angleton Advisory Board Member Tom Wilbeck, of Tom’s Fun Band, echoed Luna's sentiments, "Music holds our community together,” and noted the enhanced cultural identity that comes with the designation.
The official Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony will take place on September 27 at Veteran’s Park before the city’s Concerts in the Park Series. City officials and community leaders are expected to attend the event, which will feature the Tracy Perez Band and include the presentation of the designation by TMO Community Relations and Outreach Specialist Gini Mascorro.
Angleton now joins the ranks as the 65th Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. The TMO, part of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism, has been leading the efforts since 1990 to support the state's music business development and serves as a connection between the music industry and government entities. This program garners a statewide network of partners dedicated to promoting Texas as a prime destination for musicians and music businesses alike.