1923
Miller Outdoor Theater
Opening of iconic outdoor performance venue in Hermann Park
Houston Music History
Celebrating the rich musical heritage of the Bayou City
MUSIC HISTORY TIMELINE
Since the early 1900s, there has been an important music community developing in Houston.
This year, we continue highlighting some of Houston's most notable local musicians, significant landmarks, and recorded music moments.
Have a bit of local music history to share?
Submit Music HistoryEXPLORE THE TIMELINE
Discover Houston's musical milestones from 1923 to today
1925
KPRC Radio
Houston's first radio station begins broadcasting
1926
Victoria Spivey - Hallelujah
Houston blues singer records influential early recordings
1934
Lydia Mendoza
The "Lark of the Border" rises to fame from Houston's tejano music scene
1936
Milt Larkin
Jazz bandleader establishes Houston as a jazz destination
1939
El Dorado Ballroom
Historic Third Ward venue opens, hosting major Black entertainers
1941
Quinn Recording/SugarHill Studios
Legendary recording studio opens, later becoming SugarHill Studios
1946
Lightnin' Hopkins
Blues legend begins recording career in Houston
1949
Peacock Records
Don Robey founds influential R&B and gospel label in Houston
1950s
Joe Carmouche
Zydeco pioneer helps establish Houston's Creole music scene
1970s
ZZ Top
Houston's iconic blues rock band achieves international stardom
1986
Houston Rodeo
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo becomes world's largest
1991
Geto Boys
Houston hip-hop pioneers achieve mainstream success
2018
Houston Symphony
Celebrating over 100 years of orchestral excellence
Legacy
Big Mama Thornton
Original "Hound Dog" singer and blues legend with Houston roots
SPOTIFY PLAYLIST
We are compiling an essential playlist of Houston Music on Spotify to accompany the Music History Timeline. To qualify, songs must be either by Houstonians, or must have been recorded here or released on a local label.
To submit your local song for this playlist, send your selection using our Contact Form .
Anyone with a Spotify account can listen to the Htown Music Spotify playlist.
LISTEN NOWHouston Music Legends
Home to some of the world's most influential artists
B
Beyoncé
ZZ
ZZ Top
UGK
UGK
REK
Robert Earl Keen
DJ
DJ Screw
LM
La Mafia
Be Part of Houston's Music Future
Join the Houston Music Directory and help write the next chapter of Houston's musical legacy.