Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the City of Tyler has been designated by the Texas Music Office (TMO) as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. The Music Friendly Texas program, introduced by TMO in 2016, aims to promote music business-related economic development and job creation in cities and communities across Texas.

Governor Abbott congratulated the City of Tyler on earning this designation, stating, "Music is key to the Texas brand and is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of our great state. Music Friendly Texas Communities certified by the Texas Music Office work hard to attract and develop the local music industry to boost local job creation and economic growth."

Mayor Don Warren expressed his enthusiasm for Tyler's official designation, saying, "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, making Tyler a melody that resonates across the Lone Star State."

Chair of the Visit Tyler Music Friendly Advisory Board, Carleen Dark-Bays, highlighted the significance of this designation for Tyler. She stated, "Becoming a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community and standing alongside so many other esteemed Texas cities is important for Tyler on many fronts. This pivotal milestone will unlock opportunity and foster invaluable connections for our local artists and musicians. It also makes a statement to artists everywhere that Tyler is deeply dedicated to nurturing the music industry's evolution while also being a wonderful place to call home."

Deputy City Manager Stephanie Franklin emphasized the timing of Tyler's designation as a Music Friendly Texas community, coinciding with the reopening of the Historic Mayfair Music and Dance Hall. Franklin said, "Our city preserves its musical legacy by honoring our past and the many artists like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Elvis Presley who have performed here as we set the stage for future artists to make history."

The Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony, cohosted by TMO, Visit Tyler, and the City of Tyler, will be held on Thursday, January 11. The event will feature speakers from the Tyler community and city leaders. Chip Adams, TMO Community Relations & Outreach Specialist, will present the designation. The ceremony is open to the public and will take place at Liberty Hall in Tyler.

Tyler becomes the 55th Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. The Texas Music Office, part of the Governor's Office of Economic Development and Tourism, operates an extensive network of certified Music Friendly Texas community partners across the state. The office serves as a clearinghouse for Texas music industry information, supports local job creation, and attracts visitors from around the world. The vibrant Texas music industry also contributes to workforce development and business expansion efforts throughout the state.

For more information about the Music Friendly Texas program and the Texas Music Office, visit gov.texas.gov/music/page/music-friendly-communities.

Click this link to access more information: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-announces-tyler-designated-music-friendly-texas-certified-community