Welcome to The Austin Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• SXSW responds to artist boycotts

• Burberry opens first store in Austin

• A deep-dive into the life of Roky Erickson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Courage is never to let your actions be influenced by your fears.”

— Arthur Koestler

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What is the name of the largest and oldest film studio in Austin, often used for big Hollywood productions?

A) Austin Studios

B) Spiderwood Studios

C) Troublemaker Studios

D) Rooster Teeth Productions

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:
The famous barbecue restaurant in Austin known for its brisket and long lines is D) Franklin Barbecue.

News

💼 Business

SXSW responds to artist boycotts over the Middle East situation, emphasizing the importance of unity against injustice. (link)

Burberry has opened its first store in Austin at The Domain, marking the luxury brand's expansion in Texas with its fourth location in the state. (link)

Waymo begins testing self-driving vehicles without human drivers in Austin. (link)

🏒 Sports

The I-35 Series saw the San Antonio Spurs play against the Denver Nuggets and Brooklyn Nets at the Moody Center. (link)

Austin FC welcomed back 14 extended partners for the 2024 Major League Soccer season, highlighting the club's growing support network. (link)

Xavier Worthy, Adonai Mitchell, Byron Murphy, and other Texas Longhorns showcased their talents at the NFL Draft Combine, with Worthy breaking the 40-yard dash record. (link)

Austin FC drew with St. Louis CITY SC in a match, showcasing the team's competitive spirit early in the season​​​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

Austin Unveils 'The Loretta': New Affordable Housing Development in District 6 with 137 Units. (link)

$50 million dollars, one thousand new affordable housing approved by Austin Housing Finance Corporation. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🐎 ProRodeo & Tracy Byrd
Rodeo Austin, Austin, TX
Monday, Mar 18th | 7:00 PM | (more info)

⚾ Texas Longhorns Baseball vs. Air Force Academy Falcons Baseball
UFCU Disch-Falk Field, Austin, TX
Tuesday, Mar 19th | 6:30 PM | (more info)

🐎 ProRodeo & 38 SPECIAL
Rodeo Austin, Austin, TX
Wednesday, Mar 20th | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Devendra Banhart
The Mohawk-Austin, Austin, TX
Monday, Mar 18th | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🤘 Pink Martini
Paramount Theatre-Austin, Austin, TX
Tuesday, Mar 19th | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎸 Brian Culbertson
Paramount Theatre-Austin, Austin, TX
Wednesday, Mar 20th | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎤 Deap Vally w/ Death Valley Girls
The Mohawk-Austin, Austin, TX
Wednesday, Mar 20th | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎉 Wicked (Touring)
Bass Concert Hall, Austin, TX
Tuesday, Mar 19th | 7:30 PM | (more info)

🎭 Home, I'm Darling - Preview Performance
901 Trinity Street, Austin, TX
Thursday, Mar 21st | 7:30 - 10:00 PM| (more info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “High-tech urban farm towers and green rooftops in Austin” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Austin Historical Events

1987 - South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival debuts.

In 1987, the inaugural South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Conference and Festival took place in Austin, marking the beginning of a cultural phenomenon. The event was launched by the co-founders of The Austin Chronicle, an alt-weekly publication, and drew around 700 registrants in its first year. The festival featured 15 panels, 15 venues, and 177 showcasing artists, setting the stage for what would become a renowned showcase of music, film, and multimedia.

Over the years, SXSW expanded to include film and multimedia segments, and in 1993, it moved to the Austin Convention Center, where it continues to be held today. The festival's influence grew, and by 2018, it encompassed comedy and gaming-related events, attracting a diverse array of talent and industry professionals. What began as a modest gathering in 1987 has evolved into an annual conglomeration of parallel film, interactive media, and music festivals and conferences, making a significant impact on the cultural landscape of Austin and beyond.

SXSW's debut in 1987 laid the foundation for a cultural phenomenon that has continued to grow in scope and size every year. From its humble beginnings, the festival has become a platform for emerging and established artists, filmmakers, and innovators to showcase their work and connect with a global audience. With its roots in Austin, SXSW has played a pivotal role in shaping the city's identity as a hub for creativity and innovation, making it a must-attend event for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Famous People From Austin

Roky Erickson: 1947-2019

Roky Erickson, born Roger Kynard Erickson, was an American musician and singer-songwriter known for his pioneering contributions to the psychedelic rock genre. His career was marked by visionary zeal and a unique musical style that left an indelible mark on the world of rock and roll.

Early Life and Musical Roots (1947-1960s)

Roger Kynard Erickson, known as Roky, was born on July 15, 1947, in Dallas, Texas, to Roger and Evelyn Erickson. Growing up in a musically inclined family, Roky developed a passion for music at a young age, influenced by his singer-artist mother and architect father. His early exposure to music laid the foundation for his future career as a musician.

The 13th Floor Elevators and Psychedelic Rock (1965-1969)

Roky Erickson's most notable contribution to music came as the founding member and leader of the 13th Floor Elevators, a band that played a pivotal role in the development of psychedelic rock. The band's innovative sound and Roky's distinctive vocals set them apart in the music scene, earning them a reputation as pioneers of the genre.

Challenges and Mental Health Struggles (1970s-1980s)

Following his incarceration in a Texas mental hospital in 1969, Roky Erickson faced significant challenges related to mental health. His struggles with debilitating mental illness impacted his career and personal life, leading to a period of hardship and adversity.

Return to Music and Influence on Future Generations (1990s-2019)

Despite the challenges he faced, Roky Erickson made a triumphant return to music in the 1990s, reclaiming his status as a legendary figure in the rock and roll community. His enduring influence on future generations of musicians and his visionary approach to music solidified his legacy as an iconic figure in the music industry.

Connection to Austin and Musical Legacy

Roky Erickson's connection to Austin, Texas, was a significant part of his life and career. The city served as a backdrop for his musical journey, and he became an integral part of its vibrant music scene. His impact on the local music community and his enduring legacy continue to be celebrated in Austin and beyond.

Remembering Roky Erickson (2019 and Beyond)

Roky Erickson passed away in Austin, Texas, on May 31, 2019, leaving behind a legacy as a psychedelic rock pioneer and an influential figure in the music world. His visionary zeal and unique musical contributions continue to inspire and resonate with music enthusiasts around the globe.

Key Achievements of Roky Erickson:

• Pioneered the psychedelic rock genre as the leader of the 13th Floor Elevators.

• Made a triumphant return to music in the 1990s, solidifying his status as a legendary figure in rock and roll.

• Influenced future generations of musicians with his visionary approach to music and unique vocal style.

• Left an enduring legacy in the music industry and continues to be celebrated as a psychedelic rock icon.

Roky Erickson's story is one of resilience, creativity, and musical innovation. His impact on the psychedelic rock genre and his enduring influence on the music community make him a legendary figure in the history of rock and roll.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

Poll