I'm sorry to say that the TxCMA hasn't reached it's full promise......at least not from what we are seeing with our local musicians here in Austin.  The website no longer works and we aren't hearing anything other than questions concerning it's existence.  I know that everyone involved with it from the beginning had only the very best of intentions to create a way to help musicians. 

I wish it had worked....or maybe it has?  If there is anyone that knows the current status, please contact me.  If it is still an active and viable organization, I would like to post an update for everyone.

You know what, though, that April Sunday afternoon at Hill's Cafe was still one of the most special shows I've ever seen.  These pictures have so many memories built into them.  Let's just enjoy the good time we had!

How many times have we told someone 'we' (meaning anyone that loves music) need to support our favorite musicians?  Whether it's by attending their shows (and paying a cover) or spending the money to buy our own copy of their CDs instead of just making a copy of one someone else bought.  It really is important.  A lot of the musicians don't have a 'day gig' to pay their bills.  And, because they are 'self-employed' they don't get such perks as health / dental / life insurance or 401K programs.

We heard about the The Texas Country Music Association on Wednesday night at Hills Cafe.  A 'mixer' and membership drive was that Sunday under the big oak trees behind the restaurant.  Sounded like fun.  But, when I got home, I decided to see just what the TxCMA was all about.  When I read the goals they've set and saw who was involved, I knew the time had came for us to 'put our money where our mouths are'.

Dobie had to work, but I attended and before the afternoon was over we both joined!

I took the camera because I figured there would be some great talent on stage and I was right.  But I quickly (like before the music began) realized that this was musicians playing for musicians.  I didn't want to spoil that.  So, all the pictures were taken from my table.  I'm just sorry that I didn't know every musician that got on stage and didn't get pictures of them all.  Not all of them got on stage! 

It was a fun time for a good cause.

I recommend you click here to go to the Tx CMA homepage and check it out.  And, when you're done reading....talk to your favorite musician to see what they say about it.  Then, consider joining.  It's only $35 for a year's general membership.  And, if you need a personal incentive to join, with this year's membership you get a chance to win a true rebel....the General Lee...a beautiful '69 Charger!