Governor Abbott Announces Tyler Designated Music Friendly Texas Certified Community

January 4, 2024 | Austin, Texas

Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the City of Tyler has been designated by the Texas Music Office (TMO) as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community after completing the multi-step certification process. The Music Friendly Texas program, the first in the nation since introduced by TMO in 2016, seeks to foster music business-related economic development and job creation in Texas cities and communities.  
 
“Congratulations to the City of Tyler on earning the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation,” said Governor Abbott. “Music is key to the Texas brand and is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of our great state. Music Friendly Texas Communities certified by the Texas Music Office work hard to attract and develop the local music industry to boost local job creation and economic growth. In fact, with support from the Texas Music Office, the Texas music industry accounted for more than 192,000 direct and indirect permanent jobs and generated more than $26 billion in economic activity statewide in 2022. Together, we will continue to work alongside communities in every region of our state to amplify their growth and success.”  
 
"As the Mayor of our vibrant city, I am thrilled to announce Tyler's official designation as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Mayor Don Warren. “This recognition not only honors our rich musical heritage but also celebrates our ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive environment for musicians and the music industry. Together, we harmonize the notes of culture, creativity, and community, making Tyler a melody that resonates across the Lone Star State."
 
“Music and the arts are a vital part of any thriving community, and Tyler is no exception,” said Chair of the Visit Tyler Music Friendly Advisory Board Carleen Dark-Bays. “Becoming a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community and standing alongside so many other esteemed Texas cities is important for Tyler on many fronts. This pivotal milestone will unlock opportunity and foster invaluable connections for our local artists and musicians. It also makes a statement to artists everywhere that Tyler is deeply dedicated to nurturing the music industry’s evolution while also being a wonderful place to call home.”
 
“Tyler's designation as a Music Friendly Texas community could not come at a better time,” said Deputy City Manager Stephanie Franklin. “The reopening of the Historic Mayfair Music and Dance Hall perfectly harmonizes with this milestone, amplifying Tyler's commitment to nurturing artistic expression. Our city preserves its musical legacy by honoring our past and the many artists like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Elvis Presley who have performed here as we set the stage for future artists to make history.”
 
The Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony cohosted by TMO, Visit Tyler, and the City of Tyler will be held on Thursday, January 11, and will include speakers from the Tyler community and city leaders. TMO Community Relations & Outreach Specialist Chip Adams will present the designation. Members of the community are invited to attend the free event.  
 
Tyler Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony
Thursday, January 11 at 5:00 PM  
Liberty Hall
103 E Erwin St
Tyler, TX 75702
 
More details: facebook.com/events/702172205186335/
 
Inquiries may be directed to Diann Bayes, President, Visit Tyler, 903-595-7228, dbayes@tylertexas.com
 
Tyler becomes the 55th Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. Learn more about the Music Friendly Texas program: gov.texas.gov/music/page/music-friendly-communities  
 
The Texas Music Office in the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism is the only state music office in the nation. Since 1990, TMO has fostered the economic development of Texas music businesses, Texas musicians, and Texas communities. TMO operates an extensive network of certified Music Friendly Texas community partners across the state, serves as a clearinghouse for Texas music industry information, acts as a liaison between music businesses and government offices, publicizes significant industry developments, and attracts essential music industry to the Lone Star State. A vibrant Texas music industry supports local job creation while drawing visitors from around the globe, attracting a talented workforce across industries, and supporting business recruitment and expansion efforts throughout the state.