For more than two decades, I’ve made the trip to the legendary Larry Joe Taylor Texas Music Festival — and after all these years, it still leaves me amazed.
The 37th annual gathering at Melody Mountain Ranch once again reminded me why this isn’t just another music festival.
And yes — don’t forget the chili.
There’s something hard to explain about what happens each spring just outside of Stephenville. Maybe it’s the setting. Maybe it’s the history. Maybe it’s the fact that generations of Texas music fans, artists, songwriters, cooks, and families all come together for one week with one thing in common: a deep love for Texas music and the culture that surrounds it.
Whatever it is, it’s magic.
I’ve been fortunate enough to attend a lot of music festivals over the years, but LJT feels different. It always has.
At most festivals, you go to see the headliners. At Larry Joe Taylor, every artist matters. From legends to first-timers, every stage is packed with talent. Even if you’ve never heard an artist’s name before, chances are you’ll leave as a fan. And what makes it even more special is how accessible everyone is — artists hanging out with friends, meeting fans, telling stories, and just enjoying the moment.
That’s what makes this festival feel like family.
This year, I had the honor of representing 95.9 The Ranch and broadcasting live from the ranch, right in my old stomping grounds. It was a week full of unforgettable conversations, incredible performances, and reconnecting with so many Ranch listeners who make this job so special.
I’m incredibly grateful to the artists who took time to sit down and talk with me, share their stories, and give fans a deeper look into their music and journey.
A huge thank you to Randy Rogers, Mike Ryan, Wade Bowen, Aaron Watson, Bart Crow, Josh Abbott, Logan Ryan, Wade Forster, Cameron Allbright, Travis Roberts, and Crow & Gazelle for sharing your time, stories, and songs.
And behind all of it is the Taylor team — the massive crew it takes to make an event of this size and significance happen. From the artists and production crews to hospitality, operations, and everyone working behind the scenes, thank you for continuing to build something that means so much to Texas music.
The numbers from this year tell the story of a busy week: 10 interviews, 17 stage intros, countless handshakes, time with my beautiful wife, close friends, and my Texas music family — moments I’ll remember for a long time.
And we’re just getting started.
There’s a ton of social media content on the way, and every one of those artist interviews is being turned into upcoming Ranch Sitdown Podcasts that I know you’ll enjoy.
Year 37 is in the books.
And somehow, after more than 20 years of making this trip, Larry Joe Taylor still finds a way to remind me why Texas music is unlike anything else.
Until next year — save me a bowl of chili.
