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Governor Greg Abbott has announced that Killeen is now a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. This designation, awarded by the Texas Music Office (TMO), marks the completion of a certification process aimed at fostering economic development and job creation through music in Texas cities.
“Congratulations to the City of Killeen on earning the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation,” said Governor Abbott. He emphasized the role of music in Texas's cultural traditions and its contribution to local job creation and economic growth. According to Abbott, “the Texas music industry accounts for 196,000 direct and indirect permanent jobs and generates over $31.7 billion in annual economic activity statewide.”
Representative Brad Buckley highlighted Killeen's diversity, noting its global draw due to Fort Cavazos. “Being named a Music Friendly Texas Community will allow the city to share their musical gifts with so many across the state and nation,” he stated.
Representative Hillary Hickland celebrated Killeen as "the 74th Music Friendly Texas Certified Community." She expressed pride in sustaining local traditions while promoting economic development and job creation.
Killeen Mayor Pro Tem Jessica Gonzalez described this recognition as a reflection of the city's cultural diversity and artistic creativity. “Together, we are amplifying the rhythm of progress and opportunity for the City of Killeen,” she remarked.
Jovino Gutierrez, a committee member involved in securing this status, noted that being recognized could attract more national performers to Killeen. Antonio Noriega, another committee member, called achieving this certification "a blessing."
The official certification ceremony will take place on February 22 during the Motown in Downtown Music Festival in Killeen. TMO’s Gini Mascorro will present the designation at this event.
Killeen joins over 70 other communities as part of TMO's network supporting music-driven economic initiatives across Texas since 2016.