ABOUT THE OXFORD AMERICAN’S ANNUAL MUSIC ISSUE
Published since 1997, the annual music issue is the Oxford American’s most acclaimed and popular production. Since 2009, the music issue has centered on different themes, including Southern states, city-specific explorations, Visions of the Blues, Country Roots, and Ballads. We are proud to continue this twenty-seven year tradition with another historic issue.
“Willie Nelson helped cement Austin as the Live Music Capital of the World because he so naturally embodied the spirit of the city,” said Editor-in-Chief Sara A. Lewis. “His willingness to blur the lines between cultures and genres, to unite cowboys and hippies, mainstream and outlaw, amplified the core belief at the heart of Austin’s music scene. This issue celebrates Willie’s influence and takes readers deep into the city’s barrier-breaking legacy—a vibrant tradition that continues to thrive today. From the Vulcan Gas Co. to the Elephant Room, from blues to punk rock, Austin’s artists have always shown what’s possible when you put the music first.”
