This week marks the very first OUTlaw Pride Fest in Austin, though founder Julie Nolen had the idea in mind two years prior to its October launch.
The local songwriter and manager of Pearlsnap Music Group wanted to create a space for queer country music artists and fans alike to connect through their favorite music. And this is about as outlaw as you can get. “Is there anything more outlaw than being queer in country music?” asks Nolen. “We all find more success and happiness when we’re true to ourselves. Nobody knows that better than the queer community.”
OUTlaw Pride features two outdoor stages with a mix of touring and Austin-based country artists, including Nashville songwriter Jaime Wyatt, queer country pioneer Lavender Country (Patrick Haggerty is as badass as ever), Adeem the Artist, Nolen, Austin dynamic duo Buffalo Gals, Devin Jake, AMM fave Emily Herring & The FM Band, Jett Holden , Hardened and Tempered, and Alden Hedges.
The OUTlaw Pride Fest kicks off at 3 p.m. tomorrow, Saturday October 23, at the Rustic Tap, located at 613 W. 6th St. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit OutYouth.
-Artwork courtesy of Pearlsnap Music Group.