For years, the “Live Music Capital of the World” has lacked a venue the size of a modern arena to attract some of the biggest names to the city, and instead relies on the cave-like Frank Erwin Center, built in 1977 and home to the University of Texas Basketball teams play their games. But that is changing for Austin with the Moody Center currently under construction, which will replace the old building and will be a 15,000-seat concert and sports arena specially designed for large music shows.
No name in the entertainment industry in Texas is bigger than George Strait, and no one is more legendary than Willie Nelson. Oh, and everything is ready for Friday, April 29th, 2022, which is also Willie Nelson's 89th birthday. A second night has also been added for Saturday, April 30th, following heavy demand. They will be hot tickets for sure.
"When we were planning our opening ceremony, we knew we had an obligation to pay homage to the Lone Star State," said Jeff Nickler, general manager of the Moody Center. “George, Willie and Randy are all from Texas who built legendary careers and made an incredible impact on the country music industry at the same time. After a Texas-sized reaction to the announcement of the Grand Opening Celebration, we're more than excited to extend this historic event to a second night. This only proves; everything is bigger in Texas and this celebration is no exception. "
The new Moody Center is funded by a unique partnership between Oak View Group, Live Nation / C3 Presents, the University of Texas and actor Matthew McConaughey. It will continue to host University of Texas basketball games, but will be much more optimized for music events.
"I'm so glad to be able to sing with Willie, and I can't think of a better place to do it than Austin, Texas," Strait said in a statement, referring to their last duet song together. "Willie is an amazing musician and an even better person so I know this is going to be a great night with our friends at the Randy Rogers Band."
People can access pre-sale tickets through a number of channels, including if they are American Express card members, or by signing up for the Moody Center newsletter. Advance sales run from Wednesday, October 20, 10 a.m. to Thursday, October 21, 10 p.m. CT. Ticket sales begin for everyone Friday, October 22nd at 10 a.m. CT at Moodycenteratx.com.
