Texas Summer 2021 Playlist
Over a year into the pandemic, and summer is here again. But with the loosening of COVID-19 restrictions, this season is looking different from the last. The Texas heat is back and so is live music. Here’s your Texas summer 2021 playlist composed of artists performing in Austin, TX soon.
Texas Sun – Khruangbin, Leon Bridges
Khruangbin will be performing on Sept. 15, 16, 17 and 18 at Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater.
While driving on the highway and feeling the wind blow through your hair, “Texas Sun” encapsulates the ultimate Texas summer imagery. Radiating warmth through music, the song sings with comfort and calm as many Texans drive—to work, gatherings or even their first road trip since the beginning of quarantine.
My Vibe – Mt. Joy
Mt. Joy will be performing on Oct. 23 at Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater and on Oct. 24 at Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater.
Released in April 2020, Mt. Joy’s “My Vibe” chanted to listeners brightly, “move ‘til you feel better; get yourself together,”—a reminder many people would need in the year that followed. The tune also assures the sun will always shine for others, and in Texas, there’s no doubt it will.
Zanzibar – Billy Joel
Billy Joel will be performing on Oct. 23 at the Formula 1 Aramco 2021 Grand Prix, which will be held at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA).
The 1978 song by Billy Joel still stands as an upbeat pop track, linking different generations together through music. According to COTA, this will be the first time Joel performs in Austin since the 1990s.
All My Ex’s Live In Texas – George Strait
George Strait will be performing on Oct. 1 and 8 at the Austin City Limits (ACL) Festival held at Zilker Park.
A classic country singer Texans are sure to know, Strait will be headlining both Fridays of the festival. The vibrant strings and unforgettable exes living in Texas make this tune unmistakable and easy to love.
Malibu – Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus will be performing on Oct. 1 and 8 at the Austin City Limits Festival held at Zilker Park.
Although Malibu isn’t located in the Lone Star state, Cyrus’ song paints pictures of the beach, a blue sky and a hot summer—all landscapes Texans know well. Through “a brand-new start, a dream come true,” “Malibu” serves as a summer song of hope.
Take Me Where Your Heart Is – Q
Q will be performing on Oct. 1 and 8 at the Austin City Limits Festival held at Zilker Park.
A soft and soothing track, “Take Me Where Your Heart Is” blends soul and love to create a fresh and moving melody. Named one of “2020’s most exciting rising artists” by Complex Networks, Q will be taking the stage at the festival on both Fridays.
Dreams – Fleetwood Mac
Stevie Nicks will be performing on Oct. 3 and 10 at the Austin City Limits Festival held at Zilker Park.
A classic gone viral, “Dreams” is a tune people of all ages have learned and enjoyed. Singer, Stevie Nicks will be headlining both festival’s Sundays.
Where’d All the Time Go? – Dr. Dog
Dr. Dog will be performing on Nov. 11 at Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater.
Dr. Dog’s “Where’d All the Time Go?” questions time in a colorful, hazy and dreamlike tone. Although released in 2010, the track has recently gotten an increase in popularity, and the question of time remains.
On the Road Again – Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson will be performing on Aug. 22 at Germania Insurance Amphitheater, located at COTA.
Lastly, “On the Road Again” puts into words the hope that has lived within the hearts of many Texans throughout the pandemic, along with the wonder and excitement for brighter, Texas summer days.