Texas’ landscape and lore have inspired its music since before it was a state
By Marisa Charpentier
From the 84-year-old anthem “Deep in the Heart of Texas” to Beyonce’s recent hit “Texas Hold ’Em,” the Lone Star State has long been a source of musical inspiration. There’s a seemingly endless list of songs that romanticize our wide-open plains and scorching sun. The region is a hotbed of musical genius, having produced legends like Willie Nelson, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, and Janis Joplin. Today, newer Texas artists—from Megan Thee Stallion to Koe Wetzel to Adrian Quesada—continue to make sound waves in the music world.
But what exactly is Texas music? Though often associated with country, Texas’ musical output is as diverse as the state itself. One of the biggest musical contributions the state has made is boogie woogie, a style of blues that grew out of Black communities in East Texas in the 1870s and significantly influenced rock ’n’ roll. Then there’s the Tejano music of South Texas; Houston’s iconic rap and hip-hop scenes; and Austin’s indie music ecosystem. The list goes on.
One thing is clear: Texans love music. Festivals from Austin City Limits to Lubbock’s Cotton Fest draw tens of thousands of attendees each year. Listeners still tune into their beloved local radio stations despite the ubiquity of streaming. And the hits about this alluring, complex place we call home just keep on coming. Anyone who’s spent time away from Texas knows what a blessing that is. All it takes is one lick, or one lyric, and our minds float right back to the place “where the beautiful bluebonnets grow,” as Willie once sang.
More than 1,000 Radio stations that broadcast in Texas, according to the Texas Music Office
$12.5 billion Economic activity generated by the state’s music industry in 2024
127,993
Songwriters in Texas, according to the Recording Industry Association of America
50
Years since Austin City Limits aired its first taping, starring Willie Nelson
75
Music Friendly Communities certified by the Texas Music Office
35
Grammys won by Beyoncé—the most Grammy-winning artist of all time
More than 70
Songs called “Texas,” according to a 2025 Texas Monthly analysis. Countless more are inspired by the state, from “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” by George Strait to “Texas Sun” by Khruangbin and Leon Bridges.
