The 8 Most Popular Bands From Austin

Austin is a music mecca with dozens of singers, bands, musicians and entertainers coming out of Texas’ most exciting city. However, there’s still a best of the best. Here are the top 8 most popular bands that came from Austin in no particular order. Don’t worry–they may have made it big, but they still remember where they came from.

1. The Impossibles

This rock band revered ska punk and was popular throughout the 90s and early aughts. One of the most popular bands in Austin, the Impossibles performed with Sugarcult, Less Than Jake and a host of other well-known bands. The second breakup was made to last, but fans can still enjoy their original albums. A reunion tour in 2012 was well received.

2. Lucinda Williams

Williams blends folk, rock and of course country with her unforgettable vocals. She’s won three Grammy’s and has had her music featured on dozens of movies and television shows. Perhaps her most well-known song, “Passionate Kisses,” secured her first Grammy.

3. Poi Dog Pondering

This band blends pretty much every type of genre to create a truly unique sound. Originally founded in Hawaii, the band relocated to Austin just two years after the founding date. This is where their first three albums were recorded, and they’re definitely Texans by heart.

4. Scratch Acid

A noise rock band from the early 80s, Scratch Acid helped define the genre. Called the “American equivalent of a birthday party” by journalists, the group had a reunion show in 2006. They still have a cult following.

5. Glass Eye

This avante-garde group was popular, especially amongst the college crowd, from the 80s to early 90s. Critics adored them, and their innovative style set them apart. Glass Eye was highlighted on MTV’s 80s show “Cutting Edge,” which secured their place in Austin’s musical hot spot.

6. Wikeawake

This alt rock band frequently has music featured on teen-centric shows like Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill. A Seattle transplant, the group largely benefited from switching scenery and has performed with greats like Hootie and the Blowfish and Sister Hazel.

7. Bad Livers

This band began in 1990 and people still can’t pigeonhole them into a style. A tuba and mandolin is included in the makeup, but their music is still accessible to all. They’re a great example of Austin’s unique musical abilities.

8. Western Keys

An alt-country band, they wrote, performed and recorded their first album in just a few weeks. A revered local favorite, they’ve been a welcome addition to the music scene.

There are many other great Austin bands, but these 8 rise to the top in terms of popularity, innovativeness and creativity. You can click here to learn more about them.