Oxford American #131

A Magazine Of The South.

The Oxford American’s 27th annual Music Issue takes readers straight into the heart of Austin’s legendary live music scene with iconic cover star Willie Nelson—the man who united hippies and cowboys at Armadillo World Headquarters and kicked off Austin City Limits, the longest-running music series in television history, cementing Austin’s reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Our powerful tribute collects intimate essays and reflections from artists and musicians whose lives have been shaped by the Red Headed Stranger, including Margo Price, Rodney Crowell, Brandy Clark, Micah Nelson, and more.

The Austin LIVE! edition celebrates not just Willie’s outsize influence, but the entire Austin ecosystem—from influential venues and rising stars to legendary performers like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Gary Clark Jr., Butthole Surfers, and Lyle Lovett. The magazine is accompanied by a mixtape of Austin classics and deep cuts, available with purchase through a digital download code, as well as on an optional limited-edition vinyl LP. The album features carefully curated live recordings—several previously unreleased on record—which honor the depth and variety of Austin sounds; detailed liner notes celebrating each track are included inside the issue.

Editor: Sara A. Lewis
Publisher: University Of Central Arkansas
Pages: 144pp
Size: 8.5 x 11
Notes: perfect bound, color
Release Date: Winter 2025