Austin, Texas Celebrates 50 Years of “Austin City Limits” with Garth Brooks Induction
Austin, Texas, is buzzing with excitement as the iconic music showcase “Austin City Limits” reaches its 50th anniversary. To kick off the celebrations, a special event will take place on Thursday, September 5, where country music superstar Garth Brooks will be inducted into the “Austin City Limits” Hall of Fame.
Event Details
The induction ceremony will start at 7:30 p.m. at the ACL Live at the Moody Theater, the home of “Austin City Limits.” During the event, Brooks will perform with his band, adding a festive atmosphere to a significant night for music fans. Although a limited number of tickets were available initially, the event is now sold out, leaving many fans hoping to catch a glimpse of the ceremony through different means.
For those who couldn’t get a ticket, there is good news. A special hour-long broadcast of “Austin City Limits” featuring Brooks’ induction will air on PBS on September 28. Fans can look forward to this exclusive viewing opportunity to witness this historic event from the comfort of their homes.
A Long History with “Austin City Limits”
Garth Brooks has a rich history with “Austin City Limits.” His journey on the legendary stage began in 1990, and he returned a decade later to open and close the show’s 25th season with two hour-long episodes. In 2022, Brooks made another memorable visit to Austin for two non-broadcast events at the University of Texas at Austin’s Studio 6A, the original recording location of “Austin City Limits” since its inception.
Expressing his excitement about the upcoming induction, Brooks said, “To be part of anything ‘Austin City Limits’ is and always has been an honor. I am humbled and grateful to not only be a part of the 50th Anniversary, but to be inducted into the ACL Hall of Fame is over the top.” His heartfelt words resonate with many fans who admire his contribution to the music industry.
Garth Brooks’ Achievements
Garth Brooks holds the title of the No. 1 selling solo artist in U.S. history, with an astonishing 162 million album sales certified by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). His accolades include the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor and the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. Additionally, he has received nine Diamond Awards from the RIAA and has been named CMA Entertainer of the Year seven times, solidifying his place as a music legend.
The Hall of Fame Legacy
“Austin City Limits” first taped its pilot episode on October 17, 1974, and made its debut on PBS the following year. Since then, the “Austin City Limits” Hall of Fame was established to honor outstanding artists who have played an important role in the program’s legacy. Over the years, more than 20 artists have been inducted through nine ceremonies. Esteemed inductees include Willie Nelson, Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble, Loretta Lynn, and many more.
Last year, the induction ceremony welcomed John Prine and Trisha Yearwood, who happens to be Brooks’ wife of nearly 19 years. As “Austin City Limits” celebrates its milestone anniversary, Garth Brooks’ induction represents a cherished moment in music history, both for the artist and for his dedicated fans.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming events surrounding the 50th anniversary of “Austin City Limits” will surely draw fans from near and far. There is much anticipation for the broadcast, which not only highlights Brooks’ induction but also celebrates the program’s significant impact on the music scene over the past five decades.
