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Austin City Limits: A 50-Year Musical Journey Celebrated with Star-Studded Events

  • Writer: Matticus Lowery
    Matticus Lowery
  • Aug 20, 2024
  • 2 min read

Austin City Limits (ACL) is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a series of major events, including a Hall of Fame induction ceremony for Garth Brooks and a grand birthday bash featuring Willie Nelson. These events honor the legacy of the iconic music series that has shaped the landscape of live music television.

Key Takeaways

  • Garth Brooks Induction: Garth Brooks will be inducted into the ACL Hall of Fame on September 5, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the series' history.

  • 50th Birthday Bash: Willie Nelson will headline a free outdoor concert on October 17, 2024, celebrating the anniversary of ACL's pilot episode.

  • Community Involvement: Local venues and institutions will participate in the celebrations, showcasing the impact of ACL on Austin's music culture.

Garth Brooks Induction Ceremony

The 50th anniversary celebrations kicked off with the induction of Garth Brooks into the ACL Hall of Fame. This event will take place on September 5, 2024, at ACL Live at The Moody Theater. Brooks, who has a long-standing relationship with ACL, expressed his gratitude for being part of this milestone.

  • Event Details:Date: September 5, 2024Location: ACL Live at The Moody TheaterPerformance: Garth Brooks and his band will perform during the ceremony.Broadcast: Highlights will air as part of ACL's Season 50 on PBS.

50th Birthday Bash Featuring Willie Nelson

On October 17, 2024, ACL will celebrate its 50th birthday with a concert featuring Willie Nelson and his family. This event commemorates the taping of the pilot episode in 1974, which launched the series.

  • Concert Highlights:Date: October 17, 2024Location: Long Center for the Performing Arts, AustinOpening Act: Asleep at the WheelFree Admission: Fans must register for a chance to attend.Livestream: The concert will be livestreamed, allowing fans worldwide to join the celebration.

Community Celebrations

In addition to the main events, various Austin institutions will honor ACL's legacy with special tributes. Local venues will display messages celebrating the series, and proclamations will be made to declare October 17 as "Austin City Limits Day."

  • Participating Venues:El ArroyoAustin MotelParamount TheatreSaxon PubMoody Center

The Legacy of Austin City Limits

Since its debut in 1974, Austin City Limits has become a cornerstone of American music television. The series has showcased countless legendary performances and has been instrumental in establishing Austin as the "Live Music Capital of the World."

  • Notable Achievements:Longest-running music series in television historyRecipient of the National Medal of ArtsInduction of numerous iconic artists into the ACL Hall of Fame

As ACL embarks on its next chapter, the 50th anniversary celebrations serve as a reminder of its profound impact on music and culture, both in Austin and beyond. With events featuring beloved artists and community involvement, ACL continues to honor its rich history while looking forward to the future of live music.

Sources

  • Austin City Limits kicks off 50th anniversary celebration with Garth Brooks - Austin City Limits, acltv.com.

  • Austin City Limits Announces 50th Birthday Bash featuring Willie Nelson & Family on October 17, 2024 - Austin City Limits, acltv.com.

  • Austin City Limits Marks 50th Anniversary Milestone on October 17  - Austin City Limits, acltv.com.

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