x
Breaking News
More () »

LIST: 25 local musicians to support in Austin

Looking for local artists to support in the "Live Music Capital of the World?" Here are 25 Austin musicians and bands to start with.

AUSTIN -- When it comes to Austin music, great names like Willie Nelson, Janis Joplin, Stevie Ray Vaughan, the Dixie Chicks and Spoon come to mind.

But with thousands of people trying to make it as musicians in the "Live Music Capital of the World," there are plenty of amazing artists here that deserve a listen -- and your support.

Here's a list of 25 local acts we think you should check out:

RELATED:

Is Austin still the 'Live Music Capital of the World'?

Lyft partners with local music venues to give Austin musicians free rides

The Band of Heathens

Southern rockers The Band of Heathens have been making music for over a decade, most recently putting out their album "Duende" in 2017. They are currently on a summer world tour, making stops in Germany, Italy, Switzerland and more.

RELATED:

Austin rockers 'The Band of Heathens' talk tequila, 'bikini hammocks,' Texas roots at ACL

The Bishops

A trio of Austin siblings, The Bishops told KVUE they describe their music as "swavy." You can find this hip-hop group playing shows at venues like the Mohawk and Historic Scoot Inn downtown.

RELATED:

Fresh off their first major music fest, family band The Bishops talk Austin beginnings at ACL

The Black Angels

Psychedelic rockers The Black Angels have been making music since 2004. They will be touring Europe through summer 2018, but they'll be playing at Zilker Park on May 23, kicking off the annual summer concert series Blues on the Green.

Black Pistol Fire

Black Pistol Fire call themselves a "high-octane rock duo," drawing inspiration legends like Led Zeppelin, Chuck Berry and Nirvana. They'll also be embarking on a international tour this summer. First stop? Canada.

Bob Schneider

One of Austin's most celebrated artists, singer/songwriter Bob Schneider is gearing up to release his 7th studio album since 2001. Check out his latest single, "Sing About Love," here.

Calliope Musicals

The Austin Chronicle calls Calliope Musicals "one of Austin's most exciting new acts," a "jubilant psych-folk ensemble dosed with LSD." They'll be playing in Austin on June 3 at Barracuda.

CAPYAC

Based out of both Austin and Los Angeles, CAPYAC calls themselves a musical dance act with style. You can find them, and their colorful costumes, at venues like Empire Control Room and the Mohawk.

David Ramirez

You may have heard this singer/songwriter's smooth sound on the Austin airwaves. David Ramirez will be playing at the Parish in Austin on June 30.

Explosions in the Sky

Known for their moody yet dynamic instrumental rock, Explosions in the Sky have been featured in a number of films, TV shows and video games -- notably working with Austinite David Wingo to create the score for the film "Prince Avalanche."

Ghostland Observatory

This alternative pop duo is made up of Thomas Ross Turner and Aaron Behrens. They've released four albums to date and are widely known for their hit "Sad Sad City."

A Giant Dog

With their fourth LP "Toy" out now, this Austin rock quintet recently worked with Grammy-winning engineer Stuart Sikes (Loretta Lynn, The White Stripes). A Giant Dog will be barking into Austin on July 13 at The Long Center.

Grupo Fantasma

In 2011, Grupo Fantasma won a Grammy award for Best Latin Rock, Urban or Alternative Album "El Existential." The nine-piece musical collective formed in 2000 here in Austin.

Ley Line

Ley Line is a group of four women with roots in blues, folk and soul with a taste for bass, guitar, ukulele and percussion. They'll be bringing their rhythmic blends from Brazil, Latin America and West Africa to Austin on May 29 at SquareRut Kava Bar, June 3 at Peggy's Porch Party, and on June 3 for a special "Travel by Sound" workshop.

The Octopus Project

The Octopus Project has been bringing their joyous party music to your ears since 2002, exploring genres from all landscapes including pop, electronic, rock 'n' roll and psych. You'll want to check out their theremin!

Quiet Company

Though they're based in Austin, rock band Quiet Company have made a name for themselves nationally and earned comparisons to bands like Arcade Fire, Death Cab for Cutie and Arcade Fire. They've also earned 11 Austin Music Awards. They'll be playing in Austin on June 1 at Stubb's.

Sam Houston

New Jersey's Sam Houston brought his R&B to Austin in 2015, where he caught the eyes and ears of a local well-known producer while playing at the Parish. He recently spoke to KVUE on what it's like to be an up-and-coming artist surviving in the music capital.

RELATED:

Young artist banks future on 'The Live Music Capital of the World'

Shakey Graves

Alejandro Rose-Garcia is the Austin native behind Shakey Graves since 2007. He's reached national ears through his hits like "Dearly Departed" and "Kids These Days." Shakey Graves will be performing at Stubb's on June 16 and at the ACL Music Festival in October.

Shinyribs

Frontman Kevin Russell has been a part of the Austin music scene for over a decade, where he made a name for himself with his band The Gourds. After 18 years, they split and he formed Shinyribs, "a hip-shaking, belly-laughing, soul-singing, song-slinging, down-home house party," that plays all kinds of American music from George Jones to T-Pain.

Sweet Spirit

Sweet Spirit brings a blend of eclectic pop and rock 'n' roll to their sound. They have connections to Austin legends Spoon and another band on our list, A Giant Dog. They'll perform at Barracuda on July 13.

Tameca Jones

Another Austin native, Tameca Jones has been gracing her hometown with her powerful, soulful vocals for more than 10 years. In these parts, some call her the "Queen of Austin Soul."

YOUNG TONGUE

This indie rock foursome, formerly known as The Baker Family, is made of husband-and-wife duo Stu and Liz Baker along with friends Nathan Ribner and Darryl Schomberg II. They've been working together since their freshman album "Death Rattle" in 2014.

Walker Lukens

Walker Lukens' eclectic sound can best be described as "alt-pop." Based in Austin, he has roots in Houston and has been called "wonderfully inventive," a "non-sexually intimidating version of Prince," and a "veteran balladeer with sudden indie rock ambitions."

RELATED:

Austin's Walker Lukens exposes local influences at Float Fest 2017

White Denim

Veterans of the Austin music scene, indie rockers White Denim joined forces in 2005. Since then, they've somehow grown a sizeable fanbase in the U.K. After touring with Wilco in 2012, they even managed to recruit the band's frontman, Jeff Tweedy, to help produce their fifth full-length album "Corsicana Lemonade."

Wild Child

The Wild Child ensemble has been bringing its infectious indie-pop to the Austin area for seven years. In their short time as a band, they've managed to create chart-topping hits and grow a dedicated and diverse fan base.

The Wild Now

The Wild Now duo consists of Austin-based Taylor Baker and Drew Walker. Since 2014, the two have built enough buzz to earn themselves stage time at ACL, where they garnered attention from outlets like the New York Times, Nylon and iHeart Media.

RELATED:

Austin-bred band The Wild Now fulfills dream of performing at ACL Fest

If you're looking to hire an Austin musician, the Austin Music Office also has a form you can fill out online to help pair you with more than 2,000 local artists. The Texas Music Office is also another great resource for Austin musicians and music seekers.

Before You Leave, Check This Out