Graham’s vibrant music scene secures prestigious recognition from Texas Music Office
Graham, Texas – In a significant stride towards enhancing its cultural landscape and boosting local economic growth, the City of Graham has been officially designated as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. This prestigious acknowledgment comes from the Texas Music Office (TMO) after Graham successfully completed the extensive certification process required to join the program. The announcement was made today by Governor Greg Abbott, marking a notable achievement for Graham and its vibrant music scene.
Governor Abbott congratulated Graham on this milestone, highlighting the intrinsic role of music in enriching Texas’s cultural heritage and driving economic development across the state.
“Congratulations to the City of Graham on earning the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation,” said Governor Abbott. “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. With support from the Texas Music Office, the Texas music industry accounts for 196,000 direct and indirect permanent jobs and generates over $31 billion in annual economic activity statewide. Together, we will continue to work alongside communities in every region of our state to build a stronger, more prosperous Texas than ever before.”
The certification is not just a title; it represents a commitment to supporting and expanding the local music industry. According to TMO, the Texas music industry is a formidable economic engine, generating over $31 billion annually and supporting nearly 196,000 jobs statewide.
Graham’s mayor, Alex Heartfield, expressed immense pride in the city’s achievement.
“Our Visit Graham Texas team and Graham Municipal Auditorium Board have worked tirelessly through the years to bring high-profile, quality musical entertainment to Graham that attracts not only local interest but also tourists to our area,” said Mayor Heartfield.
He praised Graham’s rich musical offerings, from its world-class auditorium to its spacious arena and various outdoor venues, which collectively provide unique experiences for both artists and audiences.
Highlighting the communal effort behind this accomplishment, Graham City Manager Eric Garretty acknowledged the exhaustive efforts of many local music enthusiasts.
“This designation is the result of countless hours of dedicated effort by Visit Graham Texas, as well as the outstanding efforts of the Graham Concert Association and support from a legion of music lovers in our community,” Garretty said.
The recognition was also celebrated by Young County Judge Win Graham, who noted the draw of live music events to the city’s largest downtown square, enhancing Graham’s reputation as a premier concert destination. He expressed excitement about the future, particularly looking forward to expanding events like the annual Food Truck Championship of Texas concert and the Summer Concert Series.
The formal certification will be presented during the 9th Annual Crawfish and Cannons Festival at Fort Belknap, scheduled for April 12. The event promises to be a significant gathering with city officials, community leaders, and music fans coming together to celebrate this milestone.
Graham now joins an elite network of over 70 Texas communities that have been recognized for their efforts to support and expand the local music industry. This network not only promotes collaboration and shared growth but also positions Texas as a leader in national cultural development. The ongoing support from TMO ensures that music remains a pivotal element of Texas’s social and economic fabric, attracting visitors and investment from across the country and around the world.
