Deep Roots and Living Legends

The year is 1975 and Clifton Chenier and His Red Hot Louisiana Band have just taken the stage at the grand opening of Antone's. Over the next 40 years, the blues club would become the stomping grounds of legends like B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Stevie Ray Vaughan and cement itself in Austin music history.

Stevie Ray Vaughan- Austin Music Awards 1984

Music staples like Antone's are just one aspect of the deeply rooted music community. From the talented musicians and songwriters, to industry professionals, Austin is devoted to keeping it's music scene thriving. From it's conception in 1981, the Austin Music Awards have celebrated the past, present, and future of the Live Music Capital. Acts have ranged from Stevie Ray Vaughan to Gary Clark Jr and Gina Chavez. This year’s awards will continue to showcase artists connected through their music and the city.

Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World, not only for its abundance of music, but also for the community that surrounds Austin musicians. Born out of tragedy, the SIMS Foundation helps thousands of musicians to receive mental health and addiction support. Since 2008, the Austin Music Awards continues its tradition by donating ticket proceeds to the Foundation. Texas-born actress and close friend of Sims Ellison, Renee Zellweger will introduce the SIMS 20th Anniversary which includes a wide array of Austin talent. The line-up includes, Jeremy Nail + Sally Allen + The Happen-Ins + Britt Daniel + Doyle Bramhall II + Georgia Bramhall + Anthony Cole + Adam Minkoff + Kyle Ellison + Charlie Sexton + Marlon Sexton.

Kicking off this year's show are the'Freaks and Geeks' of Austin, including the unpredictable Peter Stopschinski, of Golden Hornet Project, psychedelic afro-beat band Golden Dawn Arkestra and Mother Falcon. Warren Hood, Alvin Crow, Jason Roberts, Erik Hokkanen, Emily Gimble, and Carrie Rodriguez follow up with the 'Blazing Bows' set. Return to 'Antone's, the Home of the Blues' with Jimmie Vaughan , Clifton Chenier, Barbara Lynn, Lou Ann Barton and CJ Chenier, son of the ‘King of Zydeco’ Clifton Chenier.

The 2016 AMAs would not be complete without honoring the legendary Paul Ray. He will be remembered with a closing set sung by a (surprise) rock n roll legend.

Learn more and get your Austin Music Awards tickets here.

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