Governor Greg Abbott announced that the City of Killeen has been recognized as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community by the Texas Music Office (TMO). This certification is part of an initiative launched in 2016 to encourage economic development and job creation through music-related activities in Texas cities.
Governor Abbott praised Killeen's achievement, stating, “Congratulations to the City of Killeen on earning the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation. Music is key to the Texas brand and is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of our great state.” He highlighted that with TMO's support, the Texas music industry provides 196,000 jobs and generates over $31.7 billion annually.
Representative Brad Buckley noted Killeen's diverse community and its potential for sharing musical talents across the state. “Being named a Music Friendly Texas Community will allow the city to share their musical gifts with so many across the state and nation,” he said.
Representative Hillary Hickland expressed pride in Killeen becoming the 74th city to receive this designation. She remarked, "With this newfound designation, we are able to sustain our unique traditions, broaden economic development, and further job creation throughout the city and district."
Killeen Mayor Pro Tem Jessica Gonzalez celebrated this milestone as a reflection of Killeen's cultural diversity and creativity. “This recognition honors our rich, cultural diversity, the creativity of our local artists past, present, and future," she stated.
Jovino Gutierrez from Killeen's Music Friendly Committee emphasized that being recognized can attract more performers to Killeen. He said it could serve as "the gateway to welcome more variety of national performers into our city."
Antonio Noriega from Dream Big Studios shared his personal connection to this achievement: “Making Killeen a music-forward city has been a dream of mine since childhood.”
The official certification ceremony will take place on February 22 at the Motown in Downtown Music Festival in downtown Killeen. Gini Mascorro from TMO will present the designation during this event.
For further information about inquiries or details regarding the event or program, contact Janell J. Lewis Ford at jjford@killeentexas.gov or call (254) 501-7751.
