Jackie Venson’s Unbreakable Austin Spirit

As the birthplace of Texas weirdness, Austin has long been a nail that refuses to be hammered down. Despite its recent growth, unflappable Austinites like Jackie Venson know their city to be steadfast in its identity. “I just always want people to recognize the unbreakable spirit of Austin,” she says, smiling.

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Singer-songwriter Jackie Venson’s version of the blues – with its R’n’B, psychedelic rock – has invigorated Austin’s music scene with its refreshingly electric sound. She became the first Black woman to be named “Best Guitarist” at the Austin Music Awards, and recently performed at Rolling Stone’s Future of Music showcase at SXSW. Her father Andrew Venson was a longtime Austin musician who helped guide her onto her musical path, so Austin flows freely in her blood. For the newcomers, she has a word of advice; “Once you come here, you don’t really ever leave. We call Austin the ‘velvet rut’.”

So where would the musician recommend for those looking for a distinctly Austin night out? “Stubb’s BBQ. Best place, best sound, best atmosphere.” The outdoor venue has long welcomed well-established names, as well as up-and-coming talent to round out Austin’s love of live music and great food. As for a more intimate club show, “Antone’s, easy…you say a name, and they’ve played here. Stevie Ray Vaughn, BB King, Muddy Waters, Gary Clark Jr., Buddy Guy, it’s everybody”. Established in 1975, Austin’s “home of the blues” has been a downtown mainstay for anyone hoping to experience the cream of the blues crop.

After you’ve had your fill of music, Venson recommends going across the street to eat at Micheladas Cafe Y Cantina. “I brought my friends from Mexico to this restaurant, and they wanted to go back the next day.” The restaurant serves up a quintessential Austin offering of Tex-Mex with ample outdoor seating and hefty portions. As for what she orders; “The meat lovers fajita. It’s not just beef, it’s sauce and mushrooms and bacon and onions and I’m getting hungry.”

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Austin’s relaxed music and culinary style permeates through to its fashion too. As a city that embraces the best of tradition whilst welcoming eclecticism, thrifting is the move. She recommends Room Service Vintage for anyone hoping to get a great deal on some vintage threads. As Venson admits, “The Austin style is…defiantly casual. Not only do we like to dress down, we’re allergic to anyone who tries to put pressure on us to dress up.”

For more about Jackie Venson and Austin culture, visit KOOL online (age restrictions apply).

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