Legendary Austin City Limits performances worth revisiting
Pride and Joy / Texas Flood
The night Austin's guitar hero introduced himself to the nation
SRV's first ACL appearance captured the raw power that would redefine blues guitar. His 'Texas Flood' solo remains one of the most-requested performances in ACL history.
Born in Dallas, Stevie Ray made Austin his home and musical headquarters. He regularly played Antone's and helped establish Austin as the 'Live Music Capital of the World.'
Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain
The Red Headed Stranger at his most intimate
Willie's ACL debut helped launch the show nationally. His stripped-down performance proved country music could thrive on public television.
Willie moved to Austin in 1972 and transformed the city into a progressive country music hub. His Fourth of July picnics became legendary Texas traditions.
Ring of Fire / Folsom Prison Blues
The Man in Black brings gravitas to Studio 6A
Cash's ACL appearance came during his commercial resurgence. His stripped-down acoustic set reminded viewers why he was an American icon.
Cash recorded at Austin's Sun Studio affiliate and maintained friendships with Texas songwriters throughout his career.
Kid A / Everything in Its Right Place
The moment ACL embraced the future of rock
Radiohead's post-OK Computer appearance signaled ACL's evolution beyond Americana. Their haunting performance opened the show to a new generation.
Thom Yorke has cited Austin's music scene as an influence, and Radiohead has made the city a regular tour stop, including legendary shows at Stubb's.
Bright Lights
Austin's next guitar hero claims his throne
Gary Clark Jr.'s ACL performance announced the arrival of a major talent. His blistering 'Bright Lights' solo proved Austin's blues tradition was in good hands.
Born and raised in Austin, Gary Clark Jr. cut his teeth at Antone's and the Austin Music Hall. He represents the next generation of Austin guitar heroes.
Tennessee Whiskey
The performance that changed country music overnight
Stapleton's ACL taping became a viral sensation, introducing his soulful voice to millions. The performance helped spark a traditional country revival.
Stapleton has deep Texas ties through his wife Morgane's family and has made Austin a regular stop on his tours, including legendary nights at the Moody Theater.
Hold On
Brittany Howard's voice stops the entire city
Alabama Shakes' ACL debut captured the band at the peak of their powers. Howard's raw, emotional delivery became an instant classic.
The Shakes recorded their breakthrough album in Austin and have maintained close ties to the city's music community.
Coming Home
A retro-soul sensation arrives fully formed
Bridges' ACL performance showcased his timeless voice and vintage aesthetic. His 'Coming Home' captured the attention of critics and fans alike.
Bridges is a Fort Worth native who broke through in Austin's vibrant soul scene. His early gigs at Austin venues helped build his devoted following.
Cover Me Up
The songwriter's songwriter bares his soul
Isbell's ACL performance of 'Cover Me Up' is widely considered one of the finest moments in the show's history. His vulnerable delivery left the audience in tears.
Isbell has deep Texas connections through his work with the Drive-By Truckers and his friendship with Austin songwriters like Guy Clark.
The Joke
A vocal powerhouse claims her moment
Carlile's ACL performance coincided with her Grammy-winning album. Her rendition of 'The Joke' showcased one of the most powerful voices in modern music.
Carlile has made Austin a second home, recording at local studios and maintaining close friendships with Texas musicians. Her SXSW appearances are legendary.