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Texas music industry drives billions in revenue and job growth across the state

Texas – The Texas music industry continues to be a driving force for economic growth, job creation, and tourism, according to the 2025 Texas Music Industry Economic Impact Report released by Governor Greg Abbott. The Texas Music Office (TMO) tracks the industry’s development every two years, measuring its impact through revenue generation, employment, and cultural influence across the state.

Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of music to the state’s identity and economy, stating, “Live music lives in Texas. A thriving Texas music industry draws visitors from around the globe, attracts a skilled workforce across industries, and supports continuing business recruitment and expansion efforts.”

With support from the Texas Music Office, the industry now generates over $31.7 billion in annual revenue, employing hundreds of thousands of Texans. The report highlights not only the role of music businesses and music education, but for the first time, includes data on music-related tourism, which plays a significant part in the state’s economic success.

The Growing Economic Power of Texas Music

The 2025 Texas Music Industry Economic Impact Report provides detailed insights into the scope and financial significance of the industry. The report showcases a flourishing music scene that contributes heavily to job creation and economic activity statewide.

Key findings include:

  • More than 86,000 permanent jobs created directly by the music industry
  • Nearly $4.9 billion in annual earnings generated through music-related jobs
  • Over $12.5 billion in yearly economic activity linked to music businesses and education
  • A total direct and indirect economic impact in 2024 that led to:
    • 196,000 permanent jobs
    • $10.5 billion in annual earnings
    • $31.7 billion in economic activity across the state

These numbers solidify Texas’ status as one of the largest music hubs in the nation, demonstrating how live music venues, festivals, and recording studios contribute significantly to economic growth.

Music as a Key Element in Texas’ Economic Development

TMO Director Chip Adams expressed excitement about the latest findings, emphasizing how music continues to enhance Texas’ quality of life while fueling economic growth. He stated, “This report not only underscores the immense positive impact music has on the quality of life in Texas, it also highlights the economic vitality of our state’s diverse and thriving music industry.”

As the nation’s first and longest-running state music office, TMO has spent 35 years supporting Texas communities, ensuring local job growth and business expansion within the industry.

Executive Director of the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office, Adriana Cruz, also reinforced the importance of music in attracting new business investments. She noted, “Our state’s world-renowned and richly diverse music culture plays a substantial role in creating local jobs and growing the Texas economy.”

By investing in music infrastructure, supporting education programs, and strengthening Texas’ global music brand, the state is ensuring continued growth for the industry.

Texas Music Scene Continues to Expand

Texas has long been known for its rich musical heritage, with cities like Austin, Houston, Dallas, and Fort Worth serving as hotspots for live performances, recording artists, and cultural tourism. With music festivals, concerts, and events drawing millions of visitors every year, the state has positioned itself as a global music powerhouse.

The findings in the 2025 Texas Music Industry Economic Impact Report reaffirm that music is more than just entertainment—it is an economic engine that fuels business development and job creation across the state.

For more details, view the full 2025 Texas Music Economic Impact Study.

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