The Texas music scene is buzzing with activity this late summer, showcasing both chart-topping success and profound community impact. From the record-breaking debut of pop sensation Conan Gray’s latest album to a massive benefit concert by country music titans Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum that raised millions for flood relief, August 2025 has been a landmark month for Texas artists and music lovers alike.
Conan Gray’s ‘Wishbone’ Ascends to Chart Dominance
Conan Gray’s highly anticipated fourth studio album, ‘Wishbone,’ released on August 15, 2025, has officially cemented his status as a pop powerhouse. The album debuted at number one on Billboard’s Top Album Sales chart, marking his first time topping this prestigious list. Furthermore, ‘Wishbone’ secured Gray’s highest placement to date on the overall Billboard 200 chart, entering at number three for the week of August 30. This achievement represents his biggest sales week career-to-date, with the album selling over 50,000 copies in its initial week, a significant portion of which were vinyl sales.
Critics have lauded ‘Wishbone’ as Gray’s “career best,” with publications like Billboard naming it their “Editor’s Pick of the Week” and Rolling Stone noting that the artist “never sounded more confident”. The album, which returns to Gray’s singer-songwriter roots, was executive produced by Grammy Award-winning collaborator Dan Nigro. Gray celebrated the release with television performances and has launched his “Wishbone Pajama Show” tour set to begin in September. Notably, music videos for several tracks were filmed in Gray’s home state of Texas, underscoring his deep connection to the region.
‘Band Together Texas’ Unites for Flood Relief
In a powerful display of Texan solidarity, Miranda Lambert and Parker McCollum hosted the “Band Together Texas” benefit concert on August 17, 2025, at Austin’s Moody Center. The star-studded event, dedicated to supporting recovery efforts following devastating floods in Central Texas, successfully raised over $8.5 million. The funds raised will directly benefit The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country and the Central Texas Community Foundation, aiding families and communities impacted by the catastrophic rainfall that claimed numerous lives and livelihoods.
The concert featured a remarkable lineup of Texas talent, including Ryan Bingham, Wade Bowen, Kelly Clarkson, Ronnie Dunn, Dylan Gossett, Jack Ingram, Cody Johnson, Lyle Lovett, Lukas Nelson, Jon Randall, and Randy Rogers Band, among others. Beyond the music, notable figures like actors Matthew McConaughey and Dennis Quaid, former coach Mack Brown, and sports stars lent their support, with McConaughey delivering an opening monologue highlighting the importance of ongoing aid. The sold-out evening was also livestreamed across major platforms, extending its reach and encouraging further donations to aid the extensive rebuilding process.
A Rich Tapestry of Texas Music Events
Beyond these headline events, the Texas music landscape continues to flourish with a diverse array of artists and music festivals. Ty Myers, a singer-songwriter from the Texas Hill Country, is currently on his “The Select Tour” throughout August and September 2025, supporting his debut album. His tour includes significant stops in Austin at the Moody Center on September 11 and in Dallas at The Bomb Factory on September 26, showcasing his growing presence in the state’s music scene.
Dallas is set to host the 8th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival at Fair Park from August 29-31, 2025. This major music festival will feature a vibrant lineup spanning jazz, R&B, soul, and blues, with performances from artists such as Anthony Hamilton, Peabo Bryson, Doreen Ketchens, Tank and the Bangas, and Kirk Whalum. The festival’s opening night will also include a special tribute to music legends Roberta Flack, Roy Ayers, Angie Stone, and Frankie Beverly.
Grammy Award-winning artist Kali Uchis is making her anticipated return to Austin on August 31, 2025, at the Moody Center for “The Sincerely, Tour.” Supporting her latest album ‘Sincerely,’ which delves into deeply personal themes, Uchis continues to captivate audiences with her unique blend of Latin, R&B, and genre-bending influences.
Further enriching the state’s musical offerings, Dallas-raised artist Charley Crockett has released his second album of 2025, ‘Dollar a Day,’ on August 27, blending country, folk, and soulful grooves. The Texas Country Music Hall of Fame recently inducted Western swing legends Asleep at the Wheel, celebrating their enduring legacy. Meanwhile, Austin’s beloved Waterloo Records celebrated its grand reopening with an expanded location and new features on August 30.
Other notable music festivals scheduled in Texas include Levitation 2025 in Austin (September 25-28) and the upcoming Austin City Limits Music Festival in October. These events, alongside the ongoing tours and releases from Texas artists, highlight the state’s dynamic and ever-evolving music ecosystem.
