TEMPLE, Texas — You may want to tune your guitars and bring out the drums after hearing this.
Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Nov. 20 that the City of Temple is officially a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community recognized by the Texas Music Office (TMO) following a multi-step certification process.
Launched by TMO in 2016, the Music Friendly Texas program promotes music-related economic development and job creation in Central Texas and across the state.
Gov. Abbott congratulated the city and emphasized that music is not only integral to Texas culture, but supports job creation and economic growth.
"Music is key to the Texas brand and is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of our great state. Music Friendly Texas Communities work tirelessly to attract and develop the local music industry to boost local job creation and economic growth," Gov. Abbott said.
According to Gov. Abbott, the Texas music industry generates over 192,000 jobs and more than $26 billion in annual economic activity.
"Together, we will continue to work alongside communities in every region of our state to build a bigger, better Texas," he continued.
Mayor Tim Davis said that the certification will enhance support for local talent and create a vibrant cultural scene.
“Temple is a city that thrives on creativity, and becoming Music Friendly Texas certified will deepen our commitment to supporting local talent and fostering a vibrant cultural scene,” Davis said. “This certification is a testament to our dedication to making Temple a destination for musicians and music lovers alike.”
Mayor Pro Tem Jessica Walker noted the certification may foster collaboration and growth within the community.
“Music has always been a powerful way to bring communities together, and becoming Music Friendly Texas certified will open up new opportunities for collaboration, growth, and celebration in Temple,” Walker said. “We are excited about the future and the positive impact this initiative will have on our city.”
Community support
Texas Music Series sponsor Mack Purifoy praised Temple's diverse music venues and their potential to benefit musicians and local businesses.
"Congratulations to Temple for being recognized by the Governor's Office as a Music Friendly Texas Community,” said Purifoy. “Temple has a diverse variety of great venues that are fabulous for music and musicians of all genres. I look forward to Temple assisting with the creation of many more opportunities to benefit all musicians, venues, music-supportive businesses, and fans of local live music.”
Bold Republic Brewing Company Events and Music Coordinator Jamie Hodges expressed excitement about the opportunities the certification can bring.
“As an up-and-coming music venue in West Temple, gaining Music Friendly Texas certification provides Bold Republic with a valuable opportunity to continue cultivating a strong sense of connection with our rapidly growing community,” Hodges explained. “We are beyond excited to see how much this will help our local music scene will evolve and thrive.”