Fort Worth Named Spotlight City as Texas Shines at Americanafest

Two weeks after the Texas Music Office brought its homegrown talent to Nashville, the echoes of Lone Star music still linger. On September 11, 2025, the Rooftop Lounge at Bobby Nashville hosted the Lone Star Shindig, a Texas music showcase presented by Kessler Presents, Longhorn Ballroom, the Texas Music Office, and Prekindle.

A Rooftop Celebration of Texas Music

With its relaxed rooftop setting, summer night energy, and strong sense of community, the Lone Star Shindig has become a staple at Americanafest. Fans from across the country flock to the gathering each year to experience the depth and diversity of Texas music.

Powerhouse Performances and Rising Stars

Headliners Reckless Kelly and Ruthie Foster led the night with standout performances—Reckless Kelly with their trademark high-octane swagger and Foster with her soulful, resonant voice. Rising talents added new energy, including Joshua Ray Walker, Summer Dean, Nicky Diamonds, Jonathan Terrell, Presley Haile, West Texas Exiles, Simon Flory, Dev Wulf, Marley Hale, and Macy Todd. Together, they showcased the wide range of sounds that define modern Texas music.

Texas Everywhere at Americanafest

Beyond the Rooftop Lounge, Texas artists had a strong presence across Nashville during Americanafest. Fort Worth was celebrated as the festival’s official Spotlight City. The Old 97’s headlined at the legendary Ryman Auditorium, where they performed during the Americana Music Awards and accepted a lifetime achievement honor. Other highlights included Austin’s cumbia-psych group The Animeros sharing the stage with The Black Keys at the Easy Eye Fish Fry, and the vintage swing-jazz stylings of Melissa Carper delighting audiences at Brown’s Diner.

Lone Star Legacy Continues

From veteran acts to emerging voices, Texas artists left a lasting impression on Music City. The Texas Music Office expressed gratitude to performers, fans, and organizers, and confirmed plans to bring the Lone Star Shindig back to Nashville next year—continuing a tradition that blends Texas roots with Nashville’s stage.