Pause/Play

Don’t Austin My Lockhart: How Austin musicians seeking affordability are impacting surrounding towns Sep 04, 2024

We’re looking at what happens to small towns like Lockhart when a bunch of Austin musicians seeking affordable places to live move there.
You’ll hear from musician Emily Gimble, musician and co-owner of Fiddler’s Green Jenn Miori Hodges, co-founders Courthouse Nights and Rach and Rhodes presents Rachel Lingvai and Will Rhodes, musician Pierson Saxon and founders of Duett’s in Martindale, Texas Ryan and Katie Grametbaur.

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How SXSW went from an Austin festival to an international experience Aug 21, 2024

SXSW started in 1987 as a regional music festival in Austin. You’ll hear how it started and how it changed over the years from the perspectives of some of the musicians who’ve played it. You’ll also learn about what changed because of musician protests, what SXSW was like in Sydney, Australia, and what the festival might look like in the future.
Check out this flier from the first SXSW

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Pause/Play is taking a quick break Aug 07, 2024

There should be a new episode of Pause/Play this week. But, we got hit by a mix of travel, COVID, and unforeseen circumstances. So there’s no episode right now. But there will be in two weeks!

In the next episode, you’ll hear about the history of SXSW, and how it’s changed over the years.

And in the episode after that, you’ll hear about what happens when people leave Austin and start music scenes in towns around Austin.

We want to hear from you — do you live in a town close to Austin with a new thriving music scene or have you been to a show where you least expected to see live music? We’d love it if you would send us a voice memo about your experience!

You can leave a message at kutkutx.studio/contactpauseplay, email us at pauseplay@kut.org or you can leave us a message on Instagram — our handle is @pauseplaypod

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An Austin Artist’s Guide to Success: Part 2 Jul 24, 2024

The latest episode of Pause/Play is part two of an Austin Artist’s Guide to Success. You’ll hear from many people in the everchanging Austin music scene about their tips and tricks for making it here.

You’ll hear about the role of streaming in an artist’s career, what makes a great artist and advice from people within the industry.

Featuring advice from:

Little City Sounds music consultant project manager Lisa Machac
Howdy Gals co-founder and booker Belicia Luevano
Rap singer, songwriter, vocalist and entrepreneur Anastasia Hera
Songwriter, producer, and performer Dayglow
Singer and songwriter Mama Duke
KUT The Breaks podcast host Fresh
KUTX music director Rick McNulty
KUTX Program Director Matt Reilly
Austin Chronicle Music and Culture editor Cy White
Hip hop artist, producer and creative solutionist J Soulja

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An Austin Artist’s Guide to Success: Part 1 Jul 10, 2024

The latest episode of Pause/Play is an Austin Artist’s Guide to Success. You’ll hear from many people in the everchanging Austin music scene about their tips and tricks for making here.

You’ll hear about what people within the industry are looking for in an artist, what role authenticity plays, and how social media can impact a musician’s career.

Featuring advice from:

Little City Sounds music consultant project manager Lisa Machac
Howdy Gals co-founder and booker Belicia Luevano
Singer, songwriter, rap artist, innovator and entrepreneur Anastasia Hera
Songwriter, producer and performer Dayglow
Singer and songwriter Mama Duke
KUT The Breaks podcast host Fresh
KUTX Music Director Rick McNulty
KUTX Program Director Matt Reilly
Austin Chronicle Music and Culture editor Cy White
Hip-hop artist, producer and creative solutionist J Soulja

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Who owns Austin’s venues, how it’s changed, and why it matters. Jun 26, 2024

20 years ago, most of Austin’s venues were independently and locally run. But over time, corporations like Live Nation and Oak View Group have entered Austin’s venue landscape. Discover how that happened, and what it means for our live music ecosystem.

The full transcript of this episode of Pause/Play is available on the KUT & KUTX Studio website. The transcript is also available as subtitles or captions on some podcast apps.

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Ticketing through an Austin Lens Jun 12, 2024

This episode of Pause/Play explores changes in ticketing through an Austin lens. You’ll hear from Mellie Price, one of the founders of Front Gate Tickets about the industry’s expansion onto the internet. Then you’ll hear from Stephen Parker, the executive director of the National Independent Venue Association about problems with service fees, secondary markets, and speculative ticketing. And you’ll learn about what some people are trying to do to fix these issues.

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How laws targeting LGBTQIA+ Texans are impacting Austin’s live music scene May 29, 2024

LGBTQIA+ members of Austin’s music scene talk about how proposed bans on drag performances, and laws outlawing gender-affirming care for minors are impacting their work and their lives.
You’ll hear from co-owner of Cheer Up Charlies Maggie Lea. Plus you’ll hear from Austin musicians Caleb de Casper, Lizzy Lehman, Pelvis Wrestley’s Jammy Violet, and writer/musician Jack Kaulfus.

The full transcript of this episode of Pause/Play is available on the KUT & KUTX Studio website. The transcript is also available as subtitles or captions on some podcast apps.

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Peace, Love, and Texas Women: Women in Austin music reflect on the Texas abortion ban May 15, 2024

Women from the Austin music scene talk about how the Texas abortion ban is impacting their lives.
You’ll hear from music publicist Adrienne Lake, membership manager at The Recording Academy Amanda Garcia Davenport, Cassandra Shankman, aka DJ Cassandra, event producer Cheyenne Doer and songwriter, rapper and producer Qi Dada, who is one-half of the Austin hip-hop duo Riders Against the Storm.

The full transcript of this episode of Pause/Play is available on the KUT & KUTX Studio website. The transcript is also available as subtitles or captions on some podcast apps.

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How is climate change impacting Austin’s live music scene? May 01, 2024

In the latest episode of Pause/Play, you’ll hear from musicians, venue owners and fans about how climate change is affecting Austin’s Music Scene. We also talk to weatherman David Yeomans and neuropsychotherapist Bella Rockman.

The full transcript of this episode of Pause/Play is available on the KUT & KUTX Studio website. The transcript is also available as subtitles or captions on some podcast apps.

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How are global and local changes impacting the Austin Music Scene? Apr 17, 2024

How is climate change impacting Austin’s Music Scene? What about skyrocketing ticket prices? Or changes in AI and tech? How are new laws in Texas affecting women and LGBTQIA+ people in the music ecosystem? These are some of the questions that hosts Miles Bloxson and Elizabeth McQueen will explore in Season 5 of Pause/Play. In the first episode, they look at how COVID has shifted some people’s relationship with live music, plus they give you a season overview.

In this episode you’ll hear from neuropsychotherapist Bella Rockman, Lawrence Boone from the Far Out Lounge and Stage, Meteorologist David Yeomans, Jammy Violet from Pelvis Wrestly, Austin musician Caleb de Caspar, Adrienne Lake from Daydream Believer Austin and Frontgate Tickets founder Mellie Price.

The full transcript of this episode of Pause/Play is available on the KUT & KUTX Studio website. The transcript is also available as subtitles or captions on some podcast apps.

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Trailer: Pause/Play Season 5 Apr 05, 2024

The new season of Pause/Play starts on April 17th. This season is all about change. We’ll be looking at the impact that climate change, changes in laws, changes in ticketing, changes in venues, changes in tech, and more are having on the Austin music scene.

The full transcript of this episode of Pause/Play is available on the KUT & KUTX Studio website. The transcript is also available as subtitles or captions on some podcast apps.

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An Outsider’s Take on the Austin Music Scene Nov 15, 2023

In this bonus episode, Brazilian journalist and podcaster Filipe Speck explores the Austin Music Scene from his perspective as someone visiting the city for the first time.

Filipe is the co-founder of Matinal

You can listen to Filipe’s podcast Noites Gregas.

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All About Our Listeners Mar 29, 2023

This episode is all about our listeners. We asked what they thought we should do to support the Austin Music Scene, and they answered! Plus, you’ll learn about one listener who started a business to employ Austin musicians — the Handyband Collective.

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Nonprofit aims to reverse Austin’s 1928 master plan and get SXSW money to the BIPOC community Mar 13, 2023

SXSW brings in millions each year, but Black and brown Austinites don’t always benefit from the influx of money. DAWA, a local nonprofit, has put together a series of music shows and panels to elevate and direct resources to Austin’s BIPOC community. Find more information about everything happening during Vision:8291 here.

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What Touring is Like Now Mar 08, 2023

Musicians talk about what it’s like to tour on this side of the pandemic. You’ll hear from Jane Ellen Bryant and Daniel Leopold of Jane Leo, Eimaral Sol, Blakchyl, Matt the Electrician, Ali Holder, Sean Michael Giddings, Scott Collins + Janet Weiss and Sam Coomes of the band Quasi.

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Black Artists discuss the state of the Austin Music Scene Feb 22, 2023

You’ll hear from four Black musicians – Anastasia Hera, Cam the Tastemaker, Blakchyl, and Brannen Temple – about how they’ve navigated the Austin music scene, and what support they’d like to see.

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All About the Census Feb 01, 2023

In the latest episode, Peter Schwarz from Sound Music Cities about some of the results of the Greater Austin Music Census. You’ll also hear from Jonathan “Chaka” Mahone about why some Black community leaders didn’t feel included in the census.

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Austin has a music union? Here’s what it is and how it works. Jan 18, 2023

Learn all about the Austin Federation of Musicians –– how it works, what benefits it provides for freelance musicians, and why you may not know it exists.

Read more about the Musicians Union

Check out Tell Tchaikovsky The News

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Meet the Austin non-profit rethinking how record labels work: Spaceflight Records Dec 21, 2022

In the latest episode of Pause/Play we spoke with Brett Orrison, Samara Simpson, and Jonathan Horstman about the non-profit record label Spaceflight Records.

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How can people get money into the hands of musicians, outside of being fans and going to shows? Dec 07, 2022

Sonic Guild and DAWA are two Austin based that actually give musicians money. In this episode you’ll learn what they do, how they work, and why they were founded.

You’ll hear from Matt Ott, co-founder of Sonic Guild, formerly known as Black Fret, and Jonathan “Chaka” Mahone, founder of DAWA.

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Do Musicians Need Corporate Support to Survive in the New Austin? Nov 23, 2022

Miles and Elizabeth explore different forms of corporate support for music, and look at one company that’s making a big investment in Austin music.

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Take note U.S.: Canada actually gives its musicians money Nov 09, 2022

Hosts Miles Bloxson and Elizabeth McQueen explore the Canadian system of support for the arts in general, and for commercial music specifically. They explain what they know to Pause/Play audio engineer Jake Perlman, with help from Jessica Deljouravesh from the Ontario Arts Council, Marina Adam from Ontario Creates, Eric Owen from Black Pistol Fire , and KUT transportation reporter Nathan Bernier.

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**Why doesn’t commercial music in the U.S. get any financial support outside of, say, fans?** Oct 26, 2022
Austin is home to a thriving music scene, but that scene hasn’t received much financial support outside of fans buying music and going to shows. That’s not uncommon in the U.S. While some art forms like the opera and the symphony get regular public and private investments, commercial music typically gets left to fend for itself. Why is that?

In the first episode of Season 4 of Pause/Play, Hosts Miles Bloxson and Elizabeth McQueen try to answer that question with the help of UT Professor Charles Carson. They also examine the idea that the best music comes from struggle. And they explore what the city of Austin owes the music scene, and how the city might better support the for-profit music sector.

Charles Carson, an associate professor of music at the University of Texas at Austin, is pictured on campus on Oct. 18, 2022, in Austin. Michael Minasi / KUT News

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NFTs and Music: Austin Musicians’ Thoughts on NFTs Jul 05, 2022

Hear what Jackie Venson, Deezie Brown, David Shabani, and Erin Ivey have to say about NFTs and Music.

You can check out the NFT for our song “What is an NFT?” It’s not for sale, but it is on the Solana blockchain!

https://solsea.io/n/AaYykx8tvL4yzrmwwqwuB3H3NFaiV3kF7uEeAM9bfwHJ/

And you can listen to the song any time on our podcast feed by clicking this link.

If you missed the first two episodes of our mini-season about NFTs, you can listen here and here.

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NFTs and Music: What is a NFT? The Song! Jun 30, 2022

Here’s your very own, very fungible copy of the soon-to-be hit song, “What is an NFT?”

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NFTs and Music: Minting an NFT Jun 14, 2022

Miles and Elizabeth go on a journey to mint an NFT. But in order to do that they have to write and record a song, buy cryptocurrency, set up a wallet, and list an NFT for sale. But things don’t quite go as they planned.

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NFTs and Music: What is an NFT? May 31, 2022

In this first episode of our mini-season about NFTs and you’ll learn all the things you need to know in order to understand what music NFTs are and how they work.

You’ll hear from musician, DJ, composer, and founder of the web 3 community Mashibeats Mark de Clive-Lowe, and President of Blockchain Creative Labs, Melody Hildebrandt.

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The Return of SXSW Apr 05, 2022

We’re taking a look at the first in-person SXSW in 3 years. You’ll hear from rapper and event curator J Soulja, bartender and co-founder of the Amplified Sound Coalition Jeanette Gregor, artist manager Andi Narvaez, Cheer-Up Charlie’s owners Maggie Lea and Tamara Hoover, musician and composer Graham Reynolds, freelance writer Brianna Caleri, artist, instrumentalist, bandleader and soundman Thomas Cook, and musician Jackie Venson.

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Bonus! A City Department just raised their rate for musicians to $200 per hour. Mar 29, 2022

The City of Austin’s Economic Development Department just raised their rate of pay for musicians to $200 per hour per musician. Hear why that happened, and how they hope this change will inspire other departments.

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What Mayor Adler has to say about the Live Music Fund Mar 07, 2022

Hear what Austin Mayor Steve Adler has to say about the history of the Live Music Fund, why he raised concerns about the Live Music Fund Event Program, and what he thinks should guide the conversation moving forward.

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**The city has millions of dollars to support the Austin music scene. But who gets the money?** Mar 01, 2022
We’re looking at the Live Music Fund. We’ll tell you what it is, how it came to be, and we’ll explore the conversation around who gets the money.

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**Musician pay for live shows in Austin hasn’t changed in 40 years. Here are some other ways they’ve found to make money with music.** Feb 15, 2022
Austin musicians are making the same amount of money per gig as they did in 1979. In the latest episode, we look at gig pay through the years and talk to musicians Greg Clifford and Beto Martinez about how they’ve found ways to make money from music that don’t involve playing live.

Drummer Greg Clifford is pictured in his home where he produces lo-fi music on Feb. 8, 2022, in Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

Musician and producer Beto Martinez is pictured in his home studio on Feb. 9, 2022, in Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

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**Live music doesn’t always pay the bills. So what else can you do?** Feb 01, 2022
In this episode, you’ll learn how much money the average Austin musician makes per gig, and why it can be hard to make a living playing live music.

Then you’ll learn all about an alternate revenue stream for musicians — sync licensing. Nathalie Phan, founder of SoundSync Music, will explain the ins and outs of sync licensing from an agent’s perspective and Austin rapper Tee-Double will walk you through the artist’s perspective.

During Nathalie’s segment you’ll hear the song “Black Tea” by Slug, Elijah Fox, Soul Food Horns and Yasper.

During Tee-Double’s segment you’ll hear “Caped Up” from his album Local Transplant.

Nathalie Phan is pictured in her home on Jan. 31, 2022, in South Austin. Michael Minasi/KUT

Hip-hop artist Tee-Double is pictured in his home studio on July 15, 2021, in Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

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**Could affordable housing save Austin’s music scene?** Jan 18, 2022
In the latest episode, you’ll learn how Austin non-profit Foundation Communities helped musician James Shelton find affordable housing the central Austin. And you’ll get a crash course in how affordable housing works from Foundation Communities Executive Director, Walter Moreau.

Walter Moreau of Foundation Communities is pictured on Jan. 12, 2022, outside of Bluebonnet Studios. Michael Minasi/KUTX

Read “The Artist Loft: Affordable Housing (for White People)” from the Atlantic

Read “The Rise of White–Segregated
Subsidized Housing” from The Institute on Metropolitan Opportunity at the Minnesota School of Law.

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**Bonus! Gina Chavez and Joe Greenwald at ACL Music Festival** Jan 04, 2022
Miles Bloxson speaks to Latin Grammy nominee Gina Chavez and artist manager Joe Greenwald at Austin City Limits Music Festival back in October of 2021. They talk about navigating the pandemic and issues facing the Austin music scene.

Miles Bloxson of KUTX speaks with Gina Chavez and Joe Greenwald as part of the Bonus Tracks stage for the Pause/Play podcast on Weekend One of Austin City Limits Music Festival in Austin, TX on Oct. 9, 2021. Jordan Vonderhaar for KUTX

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**How some Austin musicians are finding housing help with HOME** Dec 21, 2021
In the latest episode, you’ll learn about Austin Housing Opportunities for Musicians and Entertainers or HOME. This Austin organization helps older musicians with housing and living expenses.

You’ll hear from Marcia Ball and Rosie Flores.

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**How Austin’s housing market helped build the music scene, and how it could destroy it** Dec 07, 2021
In the latest episode of Pause/Play, we’re looking at how the housing market helped build Austin’s music scene, and how it could be the thing that destroys it. You’ll hear from Austin artists about how the housing market has changed for them over the years and why some of them have decided to leave. You’ll also learn about the connection between cheap housing and thriving music scenes, musician incomes, and Austin’s housing market from experts Nicky Rowling, Michael Seman, and Audrey McGlinchy.

In this episode you’ll hear from:

Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel
Robert A. Kraft
Laura Mendoza from Cosmic Chaos
Gina Chavez
Chinasa Broxton

Listen to the documentary “Back Home to the Armadillo”

Laura Mendoza of Cosmic Chaos is pictured on Dec. 3, 2021, at her home north of Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

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Bonus! Music Scenes as Economic Clusters Nov 30, 2021

Here’s another way to think about music scenes — they’re legitimate economic clusters! Don’t know what we mean by that? Well, you can listen to this bonus episode and learn a little economic theory courtesy of Michael Seman, assistant professor in the LEAP Institute for the Arts’ arts management program at Colorado State University.

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**Why Taméca Jones, Austin’s Queen of Soul, is leaving for LA** Nov 16, 2021
Austin singer and songwriter Taméca Jones is leaving Austin for LA at the end of the year. In the latest episode, you’ll hear the reasons why the Austin Music scene isn’t working for her. Plus you’ll learn more about our music ecosystem.

You’ll also hear from and Peter Schwarz about the reality of music businesses in Austin’s music ecosystem. And Nikki Rowling explains how so many businesses operating independently can lead to burnout.

Take our Season 3 Survey

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**We’re Not New York, LA or Nashville. So What Kind of Music City is Austin? Part 1: Dayglow** Nov 02, 2021
We’ve said the words Austin music ecosystem so many times on this podcast. But what do we actually mean when we say that? And how is our ecosystem different from other music cities like LA, Nashville or New York?

In this episode we’ll try to start to answer those questions. First you’ll hear from Austin artist Sloan Struble aka Dayglow, who moved to Austin in part because of the music scene and who has no plans to leave. You’ll also hear from three experts Michael Seman, Nikki Rowling and Peter Schwarz, who will shed some light on what Austin’s music ecosystem is actually like and how it compares to other music cities like New York, LA or Nashville.

Take our Season 3 Survey

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**What Do We Do Now?** Aug 10, 2021
We look at this latest COVID surge in Austin and ask the question — What Do We Do Now?

In this episode you’ll hear from

*Desmar Walkes*, M.D — Medical Director/Health Authority for the City of Austin.
Pat Buchta — Executive Director or Austin Texas Musicians
Aubrey Hays — Musician
Mike Hidalgo — Musician
Autumn Cymone — Musician
Matt the Electrician — Musician
Erin Walter from Parker Woodland
Kate Howard — Musician
Jason McNeely — Managing Partner of Hotel Vegas
Jung Kwak PhD, MSW — Associate Professor at The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing specializing in end of life issues and Medical Ethics.

Erin Walter poses for a portrait at Far Out Lounge and Stage on August 5, 2021. Michael Minasi/KUTX

Portrait of Jung Kwak, Associate Professor in the University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing. Photo by Matt Wright-Steel, courtesy of the Texas Exes

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**What’s Changed for Musicians?** Jul 27, 2021
We talk to musicians about what’s changed for them at this stage of the pandemic. You’ll learn what they’re doing differently creatively and with their businesses and how they’re feeling overall about the constantly changing Austin music landscape.

In this episode you’ll hear from

Jay Wile
Sara Houser
Jon Fichter from Sweet Spirit and Hong King Wigs
Caleb de Casper
Rene Chavez
Stephanie Bergara from Bidi Bidi Banda
Tee Double

Hip-hop artist Tee-Double is pictured in his home studio on July 15, 2021, in Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

Caleb De Casper is pictured at the Steinway Piano Gallery on July 19, 2021, in Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

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**What’s Changed for Music Venues?** Jul 13, 2021
We talked to three club owners about what’s changed for music venues since things have opened back up, plus we explore the saga behind the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant.

In this episode you’ll hear from:

Angela Tharp from the Flamingo Cantina
Will Bridges from Antone’s
Independent music business manager Peter Schwarz
James Moody from Mohawk

AUSTIN, TX. May 27, 2021. Mohawk reopens with a sold out performance of Heartless Bastards with The Tender Things. Michael Minasi/KUTX

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**For the Fans** Jun 15, 2021
In this episode its all about the fans! You’ll hear about how they coped when there were no live shows and how they feel now that things are opening back up.

In this episode, you’ll hear from:

Hady Mawajdeh. : Hady produced a great podcast called “Gun Play.” You can listen here.
Joanna Castillo
Jonathan Weldon
Jen Leduc
Lulu Bryant

AUSTIN, TX. May 27, 2021. Joanna Castillo poses for a portrait with three 15-inch high piles of music shirts that celebrate a variety of artists, venues, concerts and festivals. Castillo bought between 40-50 shirts in just the past year to support artists that were unable to perform due to the coronavirus pandemic. Michael Minasi/KUTX

Check out Andrew Weber’s piece on venues not yet receiving federal relief

Let us know your thoughts! Take the Pause/Play Survey!

Listen to songs from this episode of Pause/Play

AUSTIN, TX. May 28, 2021. Jonathan Weldon, his wife Laura, and sons Pierce, 8, and Oliver, 4, have been organizing small concerts in their front-yard over the course of the coronavirus pandemic. Michael Minasi/KUTX

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Austin hip-hop Artist the Teeta — **Is the Pandemic Over for Austin Music?** Jun 01, 2021
We ask the question, “Is the Pandemic Over For Austin Music?” You’ll hear from public health experts, a musician, a fan, a venue owner and a venue manager about what whether or not the CDC’s change in mask guidance for vaccinated individuals coupled with the big reopening in Austin music venues that took place on Memorial Day weekend signals the end of the pandemic for Austin’s music scene.

In this episode you’ll hear from:

Jason R. Pickett, MD, FACEP, FAEMS: Deputy Medical Director for Austin
Matt Lara: Public Information Officer – City of Austin Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management
The Teeta: Austin based hip-hop artist
Sabrina Mikan RN, PhD: Music fan
Steve Sternshein: Managing Partner of Heard Presents and Owner of Empire Control Room and Garage
Jeanette Gregor — Venue Manager for Mohawk and Co-founder of The Amplified Sound Coalition.

Let us know your thoughts! Take the Pause/Play Survey!

AUSTIN, TX. May 28, 2021. The Teeta in East Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

You can listen to Jason Pickett’s podcast here: https://atcomd.wordpress.com/category/podcasts/

You can follow Sabrina Mikan on @lovefromatx on Instagram.

AUSTIN, TX. May 27, 2021. Sabrina Mikan. Michael Minasi/KUTX

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**Is the Pandemic Over for Austin Music?** Jun 01, 2021
We ask the question, “Is the Pandemic Over For Austin Music?” You’ll hear from public health experts, a musician, a fan, a venue owner and a venue manager about what whether or not the CDC’s change in mask guidance for vaccinated individuals coupled with the big reopening in Austin music venues that took place on Memorial Day weekend signals the end of the pandemic for Austin’s music scene.

In this episode you’ll hear from:

Jason R. Pickett, MD, FACEP, FAEMS: Deputy Medical Director for Austin
Matt Lara: Public Information Officer – City of Austin Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management
The Teeta: Austin based hip-hop artist
Sabrina Mikan RN, PhD: Music fan
Steve Sternshein: Managing Partner of Heard Presents and Owner of Empire Control Room and Garage
Jeanette Gregor — Venue Manager for Mohawk and Co-founder of The Amplified Sound Coalition.

Let us know your thoughts! Take the Pause/Play Survey!

AUSTIN, TX. May 28, 2021. The Teeta in East Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

You can listen to Jason Pickett’s podcast here: https://atcomd.wordpress.com/category/podcasts/

You can follow Sabrina Mikan on @lovefromatx on Instagram.

AUSTIN, TX. May 27, 2021. Sabrina Mikan. Michael Minasi/KUTX

The post Is the Pandemic Over for Austin Music? appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

**To Play, or Not to Play?** May 18, 2021
In the latest episode of Pause/Play we tackle the question “To Play, or Play or not Play?” We asked 15 Austin Musicians the same questions — Have you performed during the pandemic? Are you ready to perform now? What would it take to make you feel comfortable performing the way we used to pre-pandemic? Their answers provide insight into what it’s been like to be a musician during COVID and what kind of decisions artists are faced with now that more people are getting vaccinated and COVID restrictions are loosening.

AUSTIN, TX. May 7, 2021. Pause/Play. Tameca Jones is pictured in Central Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

In this episode you’ll hear from:
Tameca Jones
Chinasa Broxton from Tribe Mafia
Daisy O’connor
Nayome
Topaz McGarrigle from Golden Dawn Arkestra
Yin & Yang
Gina Chavez
Corey Baum from Croy and the Boys
Jaehross
Megz Kelli and Dougie Do from Magna Carda
Sara Houser
Chris Conde
Daniel Fears

Let us know your thoughts! Take the Pause/Play Survey!

AUSTIN, TX. May 4, 2021. Pause/Play. Jaeh Ross is pictured in South Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

Listen to the Songs featured in “To Play, or Not To Play?”

AUSTIN, TX. May 4, 2021. Pause/Play. Topaz McGarrigle, of Golden Dawn Arkestra, is pictured at his home in East Austin. Michael Minasi/KUTX

The post To Play, or Not to Play? appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

**The Pivot** Apr 27, 2021
In the latest episode of Pause/Play we talk to the lunch ladies of Free Lunch, musician J Soulja, the founders of Mosaic Live Wire and entrepreneur and artist Cam the TSTMKR about how they’ve pivoted during the pandemic.

You’ll hear from
Jazz Mills — event producer and co-founder of Free Lunch
Carrie Fussell Bickley — singer and songwriter with Calliope Musicals and co-founder of Free Lunch
Caroline Rose –singer, songwriter and producer and lunch lady at Free Lunch
J Soulja — hip-hop artist and promoter
Dan Redman — founder of Mosaic Sound Collective and co-founder of Mosaic Live Wire
Mike Henry — co-founder of Mosaic Live Wire
Stuart Sullivan — owner of Wire Recording and co-founder of Mosaic Live Wire
Cam the TSTMKR — hip-hop artist and entrepreneur

Let us know your thoughts! Take the Pause/Play Survey!

AUSTIN, TX. April 20, 2021. Jazz Mills, of Free Lunch, serves fresh fruit at an event. Michael Minasi/KUTX

AUSTIN, TX. April 24, 2021. From the left: Dan Redman, Mike Henry, and Stuart Sullivan, of the Mosaic Sound Collective and Mosaic Live. Michael Minasi/KUTX

Find out how to contribute to Free Lunch
Find out more about Caroline Rose
Find out more about Calliope Musicals
Find out more about Jazz Mills project Popecoke
Check out Behind the Song on The Smokeout’s InstagramTV
Find out more about Behind the Song Live, Which airs May 4th at 8pm
Find out more about Mosaic Sound Collective
Find out more about Mosaic Live Wire
Find out more about Wire Recording
Find out more about Rent a Record Label

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The Art of LiveStreaming Apr 13, 2021

We’re looking at the art of live streaming. You’ll hear the different ways people are approaching it and what it could mean for the future of the Austin music community.

In this episode you’ll hear from singer and Songwriter Kevin McKinney, Myf Mars from Hotel Free TV, photographer Ismael Quintanilla lll, Jason Reece from …And You Will Know Us By the Trail of Dead, Evan and Dustin Bozarth & Grego Loboz from Purple Bee TV, Sean Green and Eric Heirt from Safe House, Sarah Keilers aka Dossey and Drew Dunavan from Love and Lightstream

This episode has music from, Kevin McKinney, Sweet Spirit, Sasha and the Valentines, Jaime Ospina, Pelvis Wrestley, …And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead, David Shabani, Jagtronica and Dossey.

Links:

Kevin McKinney Music

Hotel Free TV

Hotel Free TV’s Patreon.

Ismael Quintanilla’s I Am Here All Day

…And You Will Know Us By the Trail of Dead

Purple Bee TV

Safe House

Love and Lightstream

Listen to music from this episode

The post The Art of LiveStreaming appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The Reopening Mar 23, 2021

On March 10th the Texas governor re-opened the state. Now businesses can operate at 100% capacity. He also lifted the statewide mask mandate. We talked to musicians, venue owners & staff about how they plan to navigate the reopening.

In this episode you’ll hear from:

Cody Cowan: Executive Director of the Red River Cultural District
Stephen Sternschein: the managing partner of Heard Presents which operates Empire Control Room,
James Moody: founder of the Austin music venue Mohawk ,
Kate Holley: illustrator and also manager and bartender at Cheer-Up Charlies,
Clayton England: musician and also bartender at the Far out Lounge
Mama Duke : singer songwriter and voice over actor
Lili Hickman: musician and visual artist

We have a survey and we’d love to hear what you think! Go ahead! Take the survey here!

Find out more about Mama Duke
Check out Mama Duke as the voice of Hip-Hop Hippo
Find out more about Lili Hickman’s art and her band Flora and Fawna.
Check out Clayton England’s music

Listen to the music by Austin Artists featured in this episode:

The post The Reopening appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Pause/Play Season 2 Episode 1 — **One Year Later** Mar 09, 2021
We talked to people from across the spectrum of the Austin music ecosystem around the 1-year anniversary of the cancellation of SXSW. In this episode, you’ll hear how they’ve coped, pivoted, evolved, gained new perspectives and dealt with trauma during the last 12 months.

You’ll hear from singer, songwriter and guitar player Jackie Venson, songwriter, producer and activist Mobley, Stephanie Bergara who fronts the band Bidi Bidi Banda, Maggie Lea co-owner of Cheer-Up Charlies, musician and founder of Austin Texas Musicians Nakia, singer, songwriter and podcaster Walker Lukens, live-event coordinator, screenwriter and co-founder of The Amplified Sound Coalition, Jeannette Gregor, executive director of the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, Reenie Collins, and executive director of Austin Texas Musicians, Pat Buchta.

We have a survey and we’d love to hear what you think! Go ahead! Take the survey here!

Links:

Listen to Jackie Venson’s music

Check out Mobley’s new record “Young and Dying in the Occident Supreme”

Listen to Nakia’s new single “It’s Never Too Late.”

The Amplified Sound Coalition

Austin Texas Musicians

The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians

The post One Year Later appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Pause/Play: Episode 10 — **Music and Activism with Jonathan “Chaka” Mahone** Feb 09, 2021
Jonathan “Chaka” Mahone from the Austin hip-hop duo Riders Against the Storm talks about how his experience as a Black musician in the Austin music community led him to create the DAWA Fund and the Black Live Music Fund. He also explains why his music is the reason he is able to continue to serve the community he loves.

Links:

DAWA

Black Live Music Fund

To Support the Black Live Music Fund

Black Live Music Fund – “Thankful” Live Stream Event February 19th

Riders Against the Storm

Chaka’s Speech — It’s time for a Black Live Music Fund

The post Music and Activism with Jonathan “Chaka” Mahone appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Pause/Play: Episode 9 — **Why Margin Walker Closed** Jan 26, 2021
Graham Williams, the founder of Margin Walker, discusses his journey in the Austin music scene and explains why nine months into the pandemic he decided to close Texas’s largest independent concert promoter for good.

Music in this episode by Sailor Poon

The post Why Margin Walker Closed appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Pause/Play: Episode 8 — **Mental Health During the Pandemic** Jan 12, 2021
Hear from mental healthcare providers and people in the Austin Music Ecosystem about mental health during the pandemic.

You’ll hear from Kalu James from Kalu and the Electric Joint , Vanessa Burden of Los Alcos, Austen Bailey former Talent Buyer for Mohawk, Patty Bouressa from The SIMS Foundation, Brandee Smith MS, LPC, LCDC, Austin Mental Health Care Resources, The Sims Foundation

Austin Texas Mental Health Resources

Other Information:

National Independent Venue Association
Save Our Stages

Music By:

Kalu and The Electric Joint
Los Alcos

Check out Downfall — the latest song from Kalu and the Electric Joint.

The post Mental Health During the Pandemic appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Urban Music Festival 2020 — **The Urban Music Fest & Homer Hill** Dec 22, 2020
In the latest episode of Pause/Play Homer Hill tells the story of the Urban Music Fest and how it’s been hit hard by the pandemic. You’ll also learn the history of the festival, and hear the challenges Homer has faced in his thirty plus years as a Black Business owner in Austin, Texas.

Urban Music Fest
Mr. Catfish
The City of Austin’s Virtual New Year’s Eve

Check out Andrew Weber’s reporting on Venue Funding in Austin

The post The Urban Music Fest & Homer Hill appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Pause/Play: Episode 6 — **The Return of Live Music Part 2** Dec 08, 2020
Hear from people across the spectrum of the Austin music scene talk about their live music experiences during the pandemic.

In the first segment you’ll hear Pedro Carvalho and Lawrence Boone from the venue The Far Out Lounge talk about how they’ve managed to stay open and have consistent live music. Then KUT reporter Andrew Weber takes you to a show that’s also a Dumpster Fire. Matt Ott from the Austin non-profit Black Fret brings you perspectives from an indoor show at ACL live. And Miles Bloxson talks to three fans about their risk tolerances and relationships with live music during COVID.

Listen to this episode of Pause/Play

Open Enrollment for the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians is open through December 15th. Find out more here: https://www.myhaam.org/become-a-member

Some Austin Music Venues Won’t Get COVID Relief Money Until Next Year. They Say They’re Running Out Of Time. by Andrew Weber

Austin City Council Takes Steps Toward Relief For Live Music Venues And ‘Legacy’ Business by Andrew Weber

This song was featured in this episode of *Pause/Play*Joy by Jackie Venson

Listen on The Apple Podcasts App, Spotify

The post The Return of Live Music Part 2 appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Pause-Play: Episode 5 — **The Return of Live Music Part 1** Nov 17, 2020
Live Music has returned to Austin, even as COVID cases continue to surge in Texas. Hear about three live music experiences from the perspective of a fan, three musicians and a promoter.

Listen to this episode of Pause/Play

In this episode you’ll hear from:
host Elizabeth McQueen stepping into the role of a fan
Greg Gonzalez, bass player for Money Chicha & Grupo Fantasma
Tomar Williams from Tomar and the FC’s
Geoff Earle from Stiletto Feels
Walker Lukens from Walker Lukens and the Sidearms. He’s also the co-host of the Song Confessional Podcast

Love and Lightstream
Antones
Central Machine Works

Listen on The Apple Podcasts App, Spotify

Listen to Songs from this Episode

The post The Return of Live Music Part 1 appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Jackie Venson Artist Feature Nov 16, 2020

For the first 50 days of quarantine during the coronavirus pandemic, Austin musician Jackie Venson live-streamed hours of musical performances from her home. She awoke at the end of the meditative marathon to a new normal for Austin musicians: no touring, no in-person shows, and no idea of what would come next. But in her calmed state of mind, Venson focused on her practice and her music, and used her platform to stand for Black musicians and Black lives. Last month, she received the honor of playing her first ACL Live performance – a culmination of her patience and perseverance in this uncertain year.

Video by Julia Reihs.

The post Jackie Venson Artist Feature appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Pause-Play Episode 4 — **Jackie Venson and Austin City Limits** Nov 02, 2020
Follow Austin musician Jackie Venson as she makes her debut on the iconic Austin City Limit’s TV show. You’ll hear how Jackie has been pivoting during the pandemic, and find out how Austin City Limits has been adapting to taping shows without a live audience.

Listen to this episode of *Pause/Play*

Listen on The Apple Podcasts App, Spotify

Show Notes Links:

Follow Jackie Venson on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tik Tok

Follow Austin City Limits on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

This Song Episode featuring Jackie Venson

ACL Radio announces ‘Blues on the Screen’ event curated by Jackie Venson – Article by Deborah Sengupta Stith

Watch The Jackie Venson’s curated Blues on the Screen

Check out Jackie Venson’s Vintage Machine Album

ACL Live Show on November 20th

Austin City Limit’s Television Show

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Pause/Play: Episode 3 — **The Venues** Oct 20, 2020
In this episode, you’ll hear from the owners two Austin venues. Brodie Elkins tells the story of Scratchouse which closed due to the pandemic. Then Maggie Lea and Tamara Hoover talk about how they’ve kept their venue, Cheer Up Charlies, afloat and explain what it’s been like to get ready to reopen.

**Listen on The Apple Podcasts App, Spotify**

Follow Cheer Up Charlies: Instagram and Twitter

Resources:

Music Venue Alliance Austin

Red River Cultural District

National Independent Venue Alliance

Amplified Sound Coalition

Austin Texas Musicians

Other articles:

‘We Deserve To Be Saved’: Austin Music Venues Rally For City-Backed Relief Fund”

by Andrew Weber

“In Live Music Capital of the World, venues feel let down by Austin”

by Deborah Sengupta Stith”

The post The Venues appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Prepared for the Worst: Being a Musician During COVID-19 Oct 19, 2020

From finances to healthcare access, being a musician during a pandemic isn’t easy – even in the Live Music Capital of the World. In episode two of Pause//Play, the new podcast from KUT/KUTX Studios, Austin musicians Mobley and TEDDYTHELEGACY tell their stories of survival and creativity. Video by Julia Riehs

The post Prepared for the Worst: Being a Musician During COVID-19 appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Pause Play Episode 2 — **The Musicians** Oct 06, 2020
In this episode you’ll hear the pandemic stories of two Austin Musicians — Mobley and Teddythelegacy. You’ll find out how their ability to access financial help has impacted their lives, what creative projects they’ve been working on and hear their perspectives on the uprisings for racial justice.

Listen to this Episode of *Pause/Play*

**Listen on The Apple Podcasts App, Spotify**

**Unemployment Resources:**

Velissa Chapa: Texas Workforce Commission Employer
Gwen Seale
Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts
Austin Texas Musicians

**Other Austin Grants**
The DAWA Fund
Banding Together

**Health Resources**
The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians aka HAAM

**Mental Health Resources**
The SIMS Foundation: Mental Health and Substance Use Recovery for Musicians, Music Industry and their Families

Check out Mobley’s curated reading list for the Austin Public Library — James Crow, a Songwriters Reader

Listen to the music featured in Episode Two of Pause/Play

The post The Musicians appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

**The Pause** Sep 22, 2020
**What happened to Austin’s live music scene after the shutdown of SXSW?**

On March 6th, 2020 the Austin City government canceled SXSW. That decision had an economic ripple effect throughout the city. It also marked the true beginning of the COVID-19 crisis for Austin. In this episode, hosts Miles Bloxson and Elizabeth McQueen explore why Austin calls itself the Live Music Capital of the World. They’ll look at the effect that the cancellation of SXSW and the subsequent shut down of the bars had on Austin through the experiences of some of the musicians, venue owners, venue staff, and music non-profits who make up this live music ecosystem.

**Listen on The Apple Podcasts App, Spotify**

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/kutaustin/albums/72157716064514073" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49631884323_d151688eac_z.jpg" alt="Pause-Play Episode 1"/></a>

In this episode you’ll hear the voices of:

Mobley
Reenie Collins — CEO of The Heath Alliance of Austin Musicians
J Soulja
Brodie Elkins
Stephanie Begara
Pat Buchta — Executive Director of Austin Texas Musicians
Ray Benson
Nakia
Michael Hall
Cody Cowan — Executive Director of the Red River Cultural District
Qunicy Dunlap — President and CEO of the Austin Urban League
Mélat
Hope Irish
Maggie Lea and Tamara Hoover — owners of Cheer Up Charlies
Homer Hill — Executive Director of the Urban Music Fest
TeddytheLegacy
Lars Russell
Jackie Venson

The post The Pause appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Trailer: Pause/Play on the Austin music scene Sep 09, 2020

“Pause/Play” will tell the pandemic stories of artists, venues, venue staff, festivals, sound technicians, music non-profits and more. What has the shutdown been like for them so far? What help have they received in order to survive? What adaptations have they been making, and what do they see as the future for Austin Music?

The post Trailer: Pause/Play on the Austin music scene appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

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