Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has announced that the City of Graham has earned a designation as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. This recognition comes after the city completed a comprehensive certification process set by the Texas Music Office (TMO), which aims to promote music business-related economic development and job creation in Texas communities.

"Congratulations to the City of Graham on earning the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation," Governor Abbott stated. He emphasized the critical role of music in Texas' cultural and economic identity, noting that "Music Friendly Texas Communities work tirelessly to attract and develop the local music industry to boost local job creation and economic growth." According to Abbott, the Texas music industry accounts for 196,000 permanent jobs and generates over $31 billion annually in economic activity.

Senator Brent Hagenbuch also praised Graham's achievement, saying, "The recognition as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community by the Texas Music Office highlights Graham’s strong commitment to supporting the arts and driving economic development."

Mayor Alex Heartfield commented, "Our Visit Graham Texas team and Graham Municipal Auditorium Board have worked tirelessly through the years to bring high-profile, quality musical entertainment to Graham." Heartfield noted that Graham's rich musical offerings include events like the Food Truck Championship of Texas and various concert series, which attract both locals and tourists.

Similarly, Graham City Manager Eric Garretty expressed gratitude for the designation, attributing it to the diligent efforts of local music enthusiasts. "This designation is both a recognition of the hard work of our resolute team of music lovers and a reflection of our commitment to continue to host wonderful musical events in our fair city," he said.

Young County Judge Win Graham expressed excitement about the designation, stating, "Live music is a huge part of what draws so many of our citizens and tourists to America's largest downtown square in Graham each weekend."

The official Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony will take place on April 12 during the 9th Annual Crawfish and Cannons Festival at Fort Belknap, cohosted by TMO and Visit Graham. TMO Community Relations and Outreach Specialist Gini Mascorro will present the designation.

Graham becomes the 79th community in Texas to receive this certification, further highlighting the state's commitment to fostering a robust music industry. The Texas Music Office, part of the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, operates the first and longest-running state music office in the nation, emphasizing the importance of music in Texas' economy and cultural heritage.