George Strait, Willie Nelson to Help Open New Arena in Texas
For years the “Live Music Capital of the World” has lacked a modern era arena-sized venue to help attract some of the biggest names to the city, instead relying on the cave-like Frank Erwin Center built in 1977 where the University of Texas basketball teams play their games. But that’s all changing for Austin with the currently under construction Moody Center that will replace the old building, and be a 15,000-capacity concert and sports arena that is specifically designed to house big music shows.
No name in entertainment is bigger in Texas than George Strait, and nobody more legendary than Willie Nelson, and both men are pairing up to help give the venue a proper Grand Opening, along with The Randy Rogers Band opening the show. Oh, and it’s all set for Friday, April 29, 2022, which also happens to be Willie Nelson’s 89th birthday. A second night was added for Saturday, April 30th as well after fierce demand. They’ll be hot tickets for sure.
“While planning our grand opening celebration, we knew we had an obligation to pay homage to the Lone Star State,” says the Moody Center’s general manager Jeff Nickler. “George, Willie, and Randy are all Texas natives who have built legendary careers while having an unbelievable impact on the country music industry. After a Texas-sized response to the announcement of the Grand Opening Celebration, we are beyond thrilled to extend this historic event to a second night. This just goes to prove; everything is bigger in Texas and this celebration is no exception.”
The new Moody Center is being funded by a unique partnership between the Oak View Group, Live Nation/C3 Presents, The University of Texas, and actor Matthew McConaughey. It will continue to house University of Texas basketball games too, but will be much more optimized for music events.
“I’m so glad I’ll get to ‘sing one with Willie’ and I can’t think of a better place to do it than Austin, Texas,” Strait said in a statement, making reference to their recent duet song together. “Willie is an incredible musician and an even better person, so I know this will be a great night together along with our friends from Randy Rogers Band.”
Folks can access presale tickets through a number of channels, including if they’re American Express card members, or via signing up for the Moody Center newsletter. The presale runs from Wednesday, Oct. 20 at 10 a.m. until Thursday, Oct. 21 at 10 p.m. CT. Tickets go on sale for everyone Friday, Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. CT at moodycenteratx.com.
October 17, 2021 @ 10:15 am
I saw GS at the Frank Erwin Center back in 2005, with Dierks Bentley opening. It’s probably my favorite of the 16 shows I saw before he retired.
Might have to drive up from San Antonio for this one.
October 17, 2021 @ 11:18 am
“No name in entertainment is bigger in Texas than George Strait, and nobody more legendary than Willie Nelson.”
Don’t know how it could be said any better.
October 17, 2021 @ 1:01 pm
Wish they would have started their new friendship way earlier but hopefully they get some more duets under their belt
October 17, 2021 @ 1:17 pm
Hope Willie remembers to show up.
October 17, 2021 @ 4:06 pm
I don’t get it. Is that an old man joke? I’ve seen Willie 12x since 2015 and he’s always showed up.
October 19, 2021 @ 9:17 pm
I hope they only let vaccinated people in.
October 20, 2021 @ 5:34 am
I hope Travis Tritt is there and refuses admission to anyone who dares to wear a face diaper.
October 17, 2021 @ 2:09 pm
I would put a scheduled performance by Willie Nelson’s at an arena show in April, 2022 as more in the category or “aspirational” than as any sort of firm event.
October 17, 2021 @ 4:08 pm
Another comment I don’t get. You and Big Tex in on some kind of inside joke?
October 18, 2021 @ 10:35 am
I suppose some people toss a coin 12 times and it comes up heads every time.
To be fair, Willie usually gives advance warning and his shows are officially canceled. He does not simply “not show up” while the concert hall is filled with ticket holders.
October 18, 2021 @ 10:49 am
And he’s made lifestyle adjustments to curb the cancellations (and there haven’t been any cancellations this year). He doesn’t smoke (or at least burn paper) and he sits during his concerts. We saw him in Virginia Beach and Raleigh on consecutive nights last month and we were tired. Willie went on to Charolette the following night and played an extra long set because Sturgill canceled last minute. Not bad for an 88 year old.
October 17, 2021 @ 4:17 pm
I hope I can get tix. My two favorites in one place!
October 17, 2021 @ 8:00 pm
Any of ya that haven’t seen the Randy Rogers Band would enjoy the shit outta them too, great live show every time!
October 18, 2021 @ 12:09 pm
Parch,
You’ve got that right! I am seeing RR open for Cody Jinks in Nov. Can’t wait!
October 19, 2021 @ 1:52 pm
Geroge i know uou and willie will be the best to get the concert stage ready for next year concert you all are the best