Austin Music History
Reading the Scene: The Best Books on 1970s Austin Music History
Last reviewed: October 27, 2026
These books are the foundation of almost everything written about the era. Disclosure: some links below are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Links search widely so you can buy from a retailer that ships to your country.
Our picks
The Improbable Rise of Redneck Rock — Jan Reid
The classic first-hand account of the scene, first published in 1974 and later updated. Find this book
Armadillo World Headquarters: A Memoir — Eddie Wilson with Jesse Sublett
The founder's own story of the legendary venue. Pairs with our Armadillo history. Find this book
Cosmic Cowboys and New Hicks — Travis D. Stimeling
A scholarly look at the music and culture of the progressive country scene. Find this book
Gypsy Songman — Jerry Jeff Walker
Walker's own account of his life and music. Find this book
Willie Nelson: An Epic Life — Joe Nick Patoski
A thorough biography with strong coverage of Willie's Austin years. Find this book
Going deeper
For primary sources — posters, photographs and papers — see our guide to Texas music archives and museums. For background, start with the Austin progressive country scene. How we handle affiliate links is explained in our editorial policy.
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