I've been somewhat fascinated lately with the Houston music scene. It's unexplainable, but I've always been a sucker for the underdog. Rich in history, yet widely ignored by local media, Houston-based musicians are a breed apart from Austin, Dallas-Ft. Worth, and other thriving scenes.
In recent months, the artists I've talked to have made a name for themselves as thoughtful songwriters, melodic musicians, and some of the nicest people I've had the pleasure of speaking with.
The May 10th show, featuring TMA Song Of The Year winner Mark Zeus was particular enlightening. Zeus shed some light on the fact that H.A.A.M. (Houston Association of Acoustic Musicians) and other organizations give performers the opportunity to promote their material, but there is a definite void within mainstream media that doesn't allow a lot of exposure outside the Greater Houston area.
They are shut out from the rest of the world. One of the largest cities in the United States is reliant on its own population to create opportunities for its own.
The fact is, a trip to Houston for the music would not be a waste of time by any stretch. The city has something for everyone, from rock, to rap, to folk, and everything in-between. The Texas Music Awards nominated more artists from the Houston area than any other region in the state. The talent is there, and they want you to know about them. Zeus, Brian Kalinek (appearing on the 5/17 show), The Hanshaws (4/12), Robert Frith (3/8) and numerous other talented artists are fighting the good fight to let people know that Houston-based music is brimming with talent. MyTexasMusic.com has much of the music, so if you don't believe me, check it out. Listen and give these artists a chance to prove themselves to you.