Music is like learning a different language—one that makes your whole body work as one, where all your senses heighten and you feel the melody with both body and soul. Texas communities are discovering this universal truth has serious economic potential, with 75 cities now certified as Music Friendly Texas communities and more joining the symphony every month.
The Lone Star State’s groundbreaking approach to music-driven economic development continues building momentum as communities discover that supporting local music scenes creates lasting economic benefits while enriching residents’ quality of life.
Program Success Creates Ripple Effects
The certification program has proven its value through measurable outcomes that extend far beyond concert venues. Certified communities report increased tourism, enhanced downtown revitalization, and stronger connections between local businesses and creative industries.
Major Infrastructure Investments Follow Music-First Strategy
The program’s success is attracting serious investment dollars. McKinney Mayor George Fuller announced his city’s partnership with Notes Live for The Sunset Amphitheater development, calling it “a historic moment” that showcases world-class talent while attracting visitors and businesses through vibrant cultural offerings.
“McKinney is proud to be designated as a Music Friendly city by the Governor’s office, and we believe that our efforts to achieve this designation played a role in Notes Live’s initial consideration of our community,” Fuller explained.
Similarly, Tyler Mayor Don Warren celebrated his city’s certification with poetic enthusiasm: “This recognition not only honors our rich musical heritage but also celebrates our ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive environment for musicians and the music industry. Together, we harmonize the notes of culture, creativity, and community.”
How Communities Join the Movement
The Texas Music Office created the nation’s first Music Friendly Community Program in 2016, establishing the gold standard that states, cities, and countries worldwide now seek to emulate. The certification process transforms communities through strategic steps:
Certification Requirements:
- Complete Music Friendly Texas Workshop petition form
- Host TMO-sponsored community workshop
- Establish Music Office/Liaison within city government
- Register with Texas Music Industry Directory
- Sign Memorandum of Understanding for data sharing
- Create advisory board of local music industry stakeholders
- Commit to monthly reporting and participation in regional meetings
Growing Network Creates Statewide Impact
Communities including Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, Denton, Lindale, Stephenville, Conroe, and San Angelo have achieved certification, while Dallas, Nacogdoches and Corpus Christi are in the certification process. This expanding network creates opportunities for collaboration and resource-sharing that benefit artists, venues, and local economies alike.
The annual Texas Sounds & Cities conference brings certified community liaisons together from across the state, fostering connections that turn individual success stories into collective momentum.
Digital Resources and Next Steps
Communities interested in joining this musical economic revolution can access comprehensive resources and begin their certification journey at the official Texas Music Office website.
Connect and Learn More:
- Official Website: https://gov.texas.gov/music/page/music-friendly-communities
- Social Media: Follow @TexasMusicOffice on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates, success stories, and networking opportunities
- Get Started: Complete the online workshop petition form to begin your community’s certification process
The Sound of Economic Success
The Music Friendly Texas program proves that economic development doesn’t have to be boring spreadsheets and tax incentives. When communities embrace music as both cultural expression and economic engine, they create environments where creativity flourishes, businesses thrive, and residents feel the rhythm of progress in their bones.
As more Texas cities discover that supporting local music scenes attracts visitors, businesses, and talented residents, the program continues expanding—one beat, one venue, one certified community at a time. After all, in the language of music, everyone speaks fluent prosperity.
For communities ready to join Texas’s musical economic revolution, the first step is just a click away at the Texas Music Office website, where the soundtrack to your city’s future is waiting to be written.
