It’s the most wonderful time of the year. The long-awaited Austin City Limits Music Festival makes its return to Zilker Park with two full weekends of live music across nine stages on October 4-6 and October 11-13, 2024.
With each passing year, ACL seems to outdo itself with its lineup of star-studded headliners. This year is no exception. Festival goers can belt their hearts out to familiar favorites from Blink-182, rap along to their favorite Tyler the Creator songs or dance the night away to Dua Lipa. However, the same can be said for the crop of local talent representing Austin at this year's festival. You might be surprised to recognize a few artists on the 2024 roster that got their big start right here in Austin. And for those up and coming names you don’t know yet, we created this list of local artists to put on your must watch list.
Passes are on sale now and you can grab them here.
BOB SCHNEIDER
Bob Schneider, a fixture in Austin's vibrant music scene, is renowned for his eclectic blend of rock, country, and folk genres. With a career over two decades, he has captivated audiences with his soulful lyrics and dynamic performances. Schneider's artistry shines through in his extensive discography, which showcases his versatility and deep connection to the Austin music community.
CHIEF CLEOPATRA
After making Austin her home in 2012, Chief Cleopatra made a name for herself by performing at SXSW in previous years and now ACL 2024. Drawing inspiration from Aretha Franklin and Wu-Tang Clan, Cleopatra promises a performance fueled by soul, funk, pop, and hip-hop.
DaIISTAR
DAIISTAR is one of Austin's premier shoegaze-punk bands. After releasing their critically acclaimed album, Good Time, in 2023, they embarked on a successful tour across the U.K. in 2024. Known for their immersive and powerful live performances, DAIISTAR now brings their distinctive sonic sound to ACL, promising an unforgettable experience for festival-goers.
Asleep at the Wheel
Austin's beloved Western swing band, Asleep at the Wheel, is set to take the stage at ACL 2024. With a storied career spanning over five decades, this Grammy-winning group has become a cornerstone of the Austin music scene. Known for their lively performances and timeless sound, Asleep at the Wheel promises to deliver a show filled with toe-tapping rhythms and classic hits that celebrate the spirit of Texas.
Midnight Navy
Midnight Navy, a multifaceted producer, saxophonist, and singer-songwriter hailing from Austin, offers a diverse musical palette. His style spans from psychedelic alternative to bedroom pop and synth wave, incorporating elements of lo-fi hip-hop. With a unique perspective influenced by his Mexican heritage and a passion for pop culture and feel-good melodies, Midnight Navy crafts a sound that is distinctly his own.
Huston-Tillotson University Jazz Collective
The Huston-Tillotson University Jazz Collective is set to perform at ACL for the third time. Recently, they clinched first place in the Louis Armstrong HBCU Jazz Competition in Nashville, Tennessee. As part of Austin’s only Historically Black College and University (HBCU), this urban contemporary jazz ensemble blends traditional jazz with modern influences, captivating audiences with its smooth and sophisticated sound.
Jon Muq
Austin’s own Jon Muq, an artist, producer, and sound engineer born in Uganda, will be gracing the stage at ACL 2024. Known for blending African and Western influences, Muq will be showcasing tracks from his newly released album, Flying Away. His innovative sound and masterful production promise to deliver an unforgettable performance.
Being Dead
Being Dead is a dynamic trio from Austin that fires on all cylinders. Their music seamlessly blends cinematic influences with noise-punk and rock sounds. Following the critical acclaim of their album When Horses Would Run, the band is back with EELs, an upcoming record that promises to take listeners on a 16-track psych-rock odyssey.
Austin School of Rock
Who doesn’t love a house band? School of Rock is a music program that gives students under the age of 18 the opportunity to join a gigging band and perform shows across Austin year-round. This time, they take the stage at Austin City Limits on both Sundays.
Molecular Steve
Molecular Steve originated from a father-son duo and evolved into a band known for their atypical harmonies and feel-good riffs. Their 14-track debut album, recorded entirely in Austin, leaves listeners swaying back and forth. What better crowd to perform it in front of than at ACL?
Want to hear more? Check out our playlist on Spotify of local bands and artists performing at ACL this year!
