Lubbock’s Dirt City Music Association Is Going Totally ’80s for a Good Cause
Lubbock has never exactly had a shortage of musicians, and one local organization is making sure the next generation gets a little help keeping that tradition alive.
The Dirt City Music Association is bringing back its annual fall fundraiser for a third year, and this time they're throwing in live music, an autographed guitar, some mysterious cassette tapes and enough ’80s nostalgia to make you start looking for your old Members Only jacket.
The 3rd Annual Dirt City Music Association Fall Fundraiser happens Saturday, September 26th, 2026, at The Garden in Lubbock's historic Depot District.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., music begins at 7 p.m., and admission is just $10 at the door.
Live Lubbock Music Takes Center Stage
This year's fundraiser has an 1980s retro theme, so dressing accordingly certainly seems appropriate. Personally, I'm thinking acid-washed jeans, a concert T-shirt and enough Aqua Net to create my own fire hazard.
Providing the actual music will be The Dirt City Outlaws, along with special guests Karla & The S!de B!tches.
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There will also be a silent auction and raffle featuring destination gift baskets, autographed merchandise and something described simply as "mystery tapes."
I'm not sure what's on those tapes, but frankly, calling them "mystery tapes" is enough to make me want one.
Check Out This Autographed Guitar
The centerpiece of the raffle is a one-of-a-kind acoustic guitar signed by more than 20 artists.
Among the signatures are Matt Hillyer, Zane Williams, Kimberly Dunn, Kevin Fowler and Mark McKinney.
That's a pretty impressive piece of Texas music memorabilia, and the money raised is going toward something even better!
Helping Lubbock's Next Generation of Musicians
This year's event represents an important milestone for Dirt City Music Association.
Proceeds are expected to complete the organization's endowment fund, allowing Dirt City to officially launch its college scholarship program in 2027.
Executive Director Tony Smitherman says the scholarships will directly support young aspiring musicians in the community, with an emphasis on supporting future music educators.
That's particularly fitting in Lubbock. We live in a city that has produced everyone from Buddy Holly and Mac Davis to countless musicians who have spent their lives playing clubs, churches, dance halls and stages across West Texas...and around the world!
Keeping that musical pipeline going requires more than applauding from the audience. Sometimes it means helping the next kid afford college.
Save the Date
The Dirt City Music Association Fall Fundraiser is September 26th at The Garden, 1801 Buddy Holly Avenue. Doors open at 6:30, the music starts at 7, and admission is $10 at the door.
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So dig out your best ’80s outfit, enjoy some local music and maybe go home with a guitar covered in Texas music history.
Best of all, you'll be helping make sure Lubbock's next generation of musicians gets its chance to take the stage.
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Gallery Credit: Landon King
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Gallery Credit: Landon King