Garland, Texas, has recently joined the ranks of Music Friendly Texas Certified Communities, as announced by Governor Greg Abbott, recognizing the city's commitment to fostering the music industry and local job creation, according to an official news release. This initiative by the Texas Music Office (TMO) is designed to accentuate the economic development through music business-related opportunities in various Texas cities.
In a statement published yesterday, Governor Abbott lauded Garland’s efforts to support the growth of its local music scene and the broader Texas brand, which is renowned for its rich musical heritage. The Texas music industry is credited with generating over $31 billion in annual economic activity and sustaining approximately 196,000 jobs. Senator Bob Hall and Representative Ana-María Rodríguez Ramos also commended the city’s cultural identity and ongoing support for the arts. In a Governor’s Office announcement, Ramos stated, "Music is more than a pastime in Garland — it’s a driving force of economic opportunity, community pride, and artistic expression."
The efforts of Garland to position itself as a music-friendly locale are evident in the sentiments shared by Mayor Scott LeMay, who reminisced about the city's musical history and contemporary scene including the Square Pickers’ weekly bluegrass jams, along with the achievements of the Garland Symphony Orchestra. Jimmy Wallace, the owner of Jimmy Wallace Guitars and founder of the Dallas International Guitar Festival, described the recognition as notable for both musicians and business owners within the city and expressed his pride in Garland's music scene, which encompasses more than just entertainment but also echoes culture, connection, and community pride, as reported by the Governor's Office.
The designation will be formally recognized at the upcoming Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony this Saturday, which also celebrates the 50th anniversary of Willie Nelson’s "The Red-Headed Stranger" album, as noted by the Governor’s Office. The ceremony, co-hosted by TMO and the City of Garland Cultural Arts, will be held at the Granville Arts Center and will feature city officials and community leaders, with Gini Mascorro of TMO presenting the accolade, the release further states. The event aims to highlight the city’s continued commitment to nurturing its musical heritage and talent.
The Texas Music Office, embedded within the Governor's Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, provides invaluable information to the music industry, connects music businesses with government resources, announces pivotal industry news, and works to draw music business investments into the state. With over 70 certified Music Friendly Texas community partners, the Texas music sector has been instrumental in promoting not only local job creation but also in drawing visitors internationally, contributing to economic vitality and enhancing the desirability for businesses setting up shop in Texas.
