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Austin City Limits Celebrates 50 Years of Musical Legacy with Star-Studded Events

  • Writer: Matticus Lowery
    Matticus Lowery
  • Aug 29, 2024
  • 2 min read

Austin City Limits (ACL), the iconic live music television series, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a series of special performances and events. Kicking off the festivities, Garth Brooks will be inducted into the ACL Hall of Fame on September 5, 2024, followed by a grand birthday bash featuring Willie Nelson on October 17, 2024. These events not only honor the rich history of ACL but also highlight its significant impact on the music scene in Austin and beyond.

Key Takeaways

  • Garth Brooks will be inducted into the ACL Hall of Fame on September 5, 2024.

  • Willie Nelson will headline the 50th Birthday Bash on October 17, 2024.

  • The celebrations include a week of events leading up to the anniversary.

  • ACL has been a pivotal platform for artists and has shaped Austin's music culture.

Garth Brooks Induction Ceremony

The 50th anniversary celebrations will commence with the induction of Garth Brooks into the ACL Hall of Fame. This event will take place at ACL Live at The Moody Theater in downtown Austin. Brooks, who has a long-standing relationship with ACL, expressed his gratitude, stating, "To be part of anything Austin City Limits is and always has been an honor."

  • Date: September 5, 2024

  • Location: ACL Live at The Moody Theater

  • Special Features:Brooks will perform live.The event will be a phone-free experience, with phones secured upon entry.Highlights will air as a special broadcast on PBS during Season 50.

Willie Nelson's 50th Birthday Bash

On October 17, 2024, ACL will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a grand outdoor concert featuring Willie Nelson & Family. This event marks the anniversary of the pilot episode, which was taped by Nelson in 1974.

  • Date: October 17, 2024

  • Location: Long Center for the Performing Arts, Austin

  • Opening Act: Asleep at the Wheel

  • Special Features:The concert is free, but fans must register for a chance to attend.The event will be livestreamed, allowing fans worldwide to join the celebration.Proclamations will be made declaring October 17 as "Austin City Limits Day.

Celebrating 50 Years of ACL

Austin City Limits has been a cornerstone of live music television since its inception in 1974. The series has showcased countless legendary performances and has played a crucial role in establishing Austin as the "Live Music Capital of the World."

  • Notable Achievements:Longest-running music series in television history.Recipient of the National Medal of Arts.Inducted over twenty artists into the ACL Hall of Fame since its establishment in 2014.

As ACL embarks on its 50th season, it continues to provide a platform for both established and emerging artists, ensuring that the spirit of live music remains vibrant in Austin and beyond. The upcoming season promises an exciting lineup, including performances from Kacey Musgraves and other renowned artists.

The 50th anniversary celebrations not only honor the legacy of ACL but also look forward to the future of music in Austin, making it a momentous occasion for fans and artists alike.

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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