Miller “Speedy” Sparks, GRAMMY Award-winning bassist for the Texas Tornados, passed away Oct. 7. Born in 1945, Sparks left an indelible imprint on Austin’s music scene, and Texas at large, in his 79 years. The two-time recipient of an Austin Music Award co-founded Texas Tornados in 1989 with Doug Sahm, Freddy Fender, Flaco Jiménez, and Augie Meyers and brought his versatile playing to other Lone Star-rooted groups like the Texas Mavericks, Teddy and the Tall Tops, and the Sir Douglas Quintet, and musicians like Joe King Carrasco and the Velvet Underground’s Sterling Morrison. Since his passing, the Houston-born musician has been lovingly remembered in tribute posts across the internet from former bandmates, friends, and family.
Texas Women for the Arts has opened applications for its annual grant program. A part of the Texas Cultural Trust, the project provides funding to arts organizations throughout the state, including museums, festivals, and afterschool and educational programs in the visual, performing, literary, and music arts. 501(c)(3)-designated organizations must obtain sponsorship from one of the 200 current TWA members before applying by Dec. 1.
Tito’s Handmade Vodka announced Sounds Better With Tito’s, a music funding program supported by Sonic Guild, on Oct. 15. The Texas-based liquor brand will offer independent artists $10,000 tour grants. The first group of recipients include three 2025 ACL performers: Austin folk duo Briscoe, New Haven R&B artist Aaron Page, and Nashville pop trio Moody Joody.
Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment grant applications opened Oct. 21 under newly established guidelines. After a tumultuous year of reorganizing, gathering community input, and funding cuts, the newly established city office presents recalibrated opportunities for artists and arts organizations. Elevate, Austin Live Music Fund, Creative Space Assistance Program, and Heritage Preservation Grant will all accept applications through Dec. 4.
Deseo Nightclub opened Oct. 10 in the spirit – and 505 Neches location – of Cielo, which previously held the distinctive title of longest-running Latin nightclub in Austin. Cielo owner Elias Boukarim relaunched the club under a new name, writing in a press release that: “Deseo is more than a club – it’s an experience built on energy, elegance, and connection.”
Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to clarify that Sound Better With Tito’s is supported by Sonic Guild, not a partnership with Sonic Guild.
This article appears in October 24 • 2025.