Close to 20 venues across Texas have already signed on to host Hurricane Harvey relief benefits coordinated by a grassroots organization called Texas Music Flood.
Musician and promoter Bucky Bachmeyer from College Station, Texas, reached out to 10 venue owners and fellow concert promoters on Aug. 25 as it became clear that Texas was about to be hit hard by Harvey. “I sent a Facebook message asking if we put a plan together to do a bunch of concerts in one day and found a good account to put all the money back in to Harvey relief, would they be willing,” he says. “Within five minutes, I got all yesses.”
Originally, the plan called for concerts, most featuring local and regional artists, to take place Oct. 8, but as more venues came on board, events have been added for Oct. 15 and 29. Most of the venues are clubs, but Bachmeyer says he expects some bigger venues and well known Texas acts to sign on, especially in events planned for Houston, San Antonio and Austin. “Those cities are where we think we can catch a few more bigger names and ramp it up.”
Bachmeyer welcomes all participation big or small. “We aren’t closed off to anybody. Anyone who wants to get in touch with me and has open dates on their artists’ schedules, we’re open to any of that. The majority of what we’re doing is working with Texas artists agencies, but by no means are we shutting anyone down. Artists, managers and venues can register through a centralized Texas Music Flood website. “If someone needs a headliner, we’ll try to get them that or a few extra artists to round out their lineup,” he says. “We’re shuffling and sending artists where they’re needed.”
The Texas Music Office, which is run through the Office of the Governor, is working with Bachmeyer by providing contact information and support. “We have their blessing, and if we have a question or concern, they’re answering within minutes,” Bachmeyer says. “They’ve definitely supplied us with information to make this pretty seamless. It’s amazing how fast this has grown to be a major undertaking.”
Bachmeyer estimates that up to 50 venues will take part. “Texans have big hearts and we’re doing all that we can to help our neighbors,” he says. “There are a lot of people that want to help and can’t get their boots on the ground in flooded areas, so we’re bringing the effort across Texas to generate as much relief funding as we can.”
Proceeds will benefit Rebuild Texas Fund, kicked off by the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation with a $36 million donation. The fund’s goal is to raise $100 million for long-term rebuilding.
For more information about participating or providing sponsorships, email [email protected] or visit www.texasmusicflood.org
