Texas Gov. Greg Abbott revealed on Thursday that the city of Corsicana had received the designation of a “music friendly” community.
Situated just an hour south of Dallas, Corsicana was the birthplace of several famous musicians, including country singer William Orville “Lefty” Frizzell and jazz saxophonist David “Fathead” Newman.
With this designation, Corsicana becomes the 41st city in Texas to achieve this status. In order to be named a “Music Friendly Texas Certified Community,” cities must navigate a multi-step process through the Texas Music Office.
In a March 23 press release received by The Dallas Express, Gov. Abbott explained, “I congratulate the City of Corsicana 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 said, adding, “Music Friendly Texas communities certified by the Texas Music Office are serious about attracting and developing the local music industry to boost local job creation and economic growth.”
“Together, we will continue to work alongside local leaders in Corsicana and across every region to ensure our communities have the tools needed to grow and prosper,” he concluded.
Rep. Cody Harris (R-Palestine), whose district includes Corsicana, applauded the announcement.
“This Music Friendly Texas designation for the City of Corsicana is a great way to let people know how the arts are thriving in East Texas,” he said in the press release.
“I am so proud of the communities I represent, and this achievement recognizes the way music brings people together, creates jobs, promotes tourism, and elevates both our culture and quality of life.”
Similarly, Sen. Bob Hall (R-Edgewood) remarked in the press release, “Corsicana should be applauded for their efforts to seek music business economic development for their community.”
Corsicana’s mayor, Don Denbow, commented, “On behalf of the City of Corsicana, I am honored to see our great city receive this designation as a Music Friendly Texas Community. … Corsicana has a thriving arts community, and I look forward to seeing the future music opportunities grow even more for our residents and visitors.”
A celebration and ceremony will be held in Corsicana on March 30, which coincides with the 175th anniversary of the city’s founding.
The city of Granbury also recently received the “music friendly” designation, as reported by The Dallas Express.