27 Best Songs About Austin

21. “Sweet Tequila Blues” by Chip Taylor & Carrie Rodriguez

Song Year: 2005

Another couple of musicians who miss Austin are Chip Taylor and Carrie Rodriguez. Their country duet, “Sweet Tequila Blues,” features Taylor on acoustic guitar and Rodriguez on the fiddle.

Taylor originates from New York, whereas Rodriguez was raised in Austin. Individually, they possess outstanding musical ability, but together, their chemistry is unparalleled. Their cohesive sound results in a steady country beat, reminiscent of the train that they yearn would take them back to Austin.

22. “Designs on You” by Old 97’s

Song Year: 2001

Alt-country band Old 97’s formed in Dallas, Texas, with the lead singer Rhett Miller born in Austin. The band has a unique sound, blending country with indie rock.  

“Designs on You” is a love song of sorts; a singer in a nightclub has designs on a woman who is about to be married to someone else. He suggests they could have a “secret thing,” but he wants to be honest: his feelings run deeper than just friends.

23. “Horseshoe Lounge” by Slaid Cleaves

Song Year: 2000

Slaid Cleaves has made his home in Austin, Texas, by way of Washington, D.C. The singer-songwriter lists some great country music artists as his influences: Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, and Woody Guthrie.

Cleaves reflects on his missed opportunity with a woman at the famous Austin bar, the “Horseshoe Lounge.” It is still being determined if this was a result of chance or if it was predetermined. In some cases, events occur with intention, while in others, they may never come to fruition.

24. “Can’t Go Back to Austin” by Doug Sahm

Song Year: 1984

Doug Sahm was born in San Antonio, Texas, and was a key figure in the development of Tex-Mex music. His long hair, sunglasses, and cowboy attire were part of Sahm’s distinct country character.

Sahm formed the Texas Mavericks in Austin in the mid-80s. “Can’t Go Back to Austin” is a country western song about being in a band and having an affair with an attractive woman. However, he knows he’ll get punched out by her guy if he ever returns to Austin.

25. “Austin Night” by Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash

Song Year: 2005

Like a lot of musicians, the Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash arrived in Austin and fell in love with the city.

The city filled with stardust did its magic– Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash would go on to perform with country legends Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and George Jones. Even Johnny Cash himself invited the band to record at his home studio.

The honkytonk, neon lights, and music in Austin will stop you in your tracks. This is what an “Austin Night” is all about. Experience the world’s live music capital, and your life will never be the same.

26. “Austin State of Mind” by Lucas Cook

Song Year: 2008

Want a tour of some of the best places Austin has to offer? Just take a trip with Lucas Cook. Buckle up; it’s going to be a crazy ride.

“Austin State of Mind” is a fun song with the band dancing around Austin’s hot spots: 6th Street, the Hula Lounge, Devil’s Cove, and more. You cannot help but have a good time when you are in an Austin state of mind.

27. “Nights of Austin” by Shane Smith & The Saints

Song Year: 2013

Shane Smith grew up in Terrell, Texas, but moved to Austin to pursue his love of music. Along with The Saints, Smith fuses rock and country with electric guitars, drums, and a fiddle.

“Nights of Austin” illustrates what the grind of playing the music circuit is all about. Nights seem to blend, so much so that Smith hardly remembers any daylight in Austin.

Top Songs About Austin, Final Thoughts

It may only be the fourth largest city in Texas, but Austin is number one for music. It boasts the most live music venues per capita than any other city in the United States.

Not only is Austin a mecca for country singers and songwriters to display their exceptional talent, but it also inspires excellent songs about a great city.