Since 1997, KHYI-FM in Dallas has championed the authentic, unpolished sound of indie Americana and country music. It’s a cause that crystallized when station manager Joshua Jones founded Texas Music Revolution, an annual festival designed to showcase and introduce new musicians to local listeners. Filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Texas Music Revolution follows the journey as Jones produces the silver anniversary of this iconic event.
As much a document of reintroducing live music in the wake of a pandemic, it is a celebration of Texas and its roots–where, at the crossroads of purist country and Americana has evolved the iconic ‘red dirt’ Waylon-and-Willie style considered one of three pillars of American country music. For more than a quarter of a century, KHYI-FM’s commitment to radio independence has given voice to this unique sector of the country western genre.
TMR has subsequently emerged as an iconic live showcase and grown into one of the largest independent music festivals in the USA. In a volatile era where larger festivals have shuttered, Joshua and KHYI must double down to produce their grandest event yet. Packed with country and rock ’n roll performances by Ray Wylie Hubbard, Charley Crockett, Joshua Ray Walker, Kiefer Sutherland, The Derailers, and more, this documentary is a celebration of Texan musicianship and provides a colorful glimpse at the efforts that go into putting together a music festival.
