Page 58 - ION Indie Magazine MarchApril 2019

Then I noticed my son was somber. He hung up the phone and explained to me that my
Grandson Tristan was stillborn. Suddenly, I could not breathe. I could not walk. My son Jeff
took charge of the situation despite his youth. He coaxed me back to the place where we
were staying. He arranged for a flight home first thing in the morning. We spent the night at
the airport awaiting that early flight.

Pain and grief cause one to consider giving up. I felt there was no reason to continue my
music journey. But, my soul would not let me. So, despite everything in 2012, I planned again
for another Austin SXSW journey. I called this “The Ascension Tour.” I contacted the owners
of the Red Shed and asked if I could do it again. To my surprise, they agreed. The show was
a success despite being bittersweet, and they asked if I would come back in 2013. I agreed
and re-branded the event as Texas Indie Fest.

Every year, my radio show grew. The network I had was becoming large. Texas Indie Fest
grew accordingly. More and more people wanted to be involved. An internet radio contact I
knew, Richard Bedell of Fish Creek Radio, was one of those people. I added him to the team,
and he has subsequently not only become my right hand, but also my best friend. Texas Indie
Fest is now in its 9th year. It has grown to proportions that also birthed Indie On Air Records.
Wednesday, March 13 through Saturday, March 16 , we will present 44 bands at Texas
th
th
Mist (1115 Old Bastrop HWY, Austin, TX 78745) during SXSW. We received nearly 4000
submissions this year. That fateful day sitting at the card table facing hopelessness and doubt
has turned into this. Passion and perseverance prevailed over loss and grief. It was by no
means easy, yet love has won. This is Texas Indie Fest. Feel the music. Feel the passion.
Emit the vibe.