When the Avett Brothers played the Long Center’s 10 Anniversary Celebration show on Saturday, they received quite the honor. The Carolina boys were made “honorary Texans.”
But first, Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel made a presentation of his own.
“Because you’ve come to Texas so many times and bring so much pleasure to people with your music,” Benson said. “Because you have played with Willie Nelson. Because you have played with Asleep at the Wheel. And because Austin loves you. On behalf of the state of Texas, we flew this Texas flag over the Capitol yesterday.”
He then introduced Brendon Anthony of the Texas Music Office.
“We all heard the story about Scott’s affinity for Austin, Texas. “Anthony started. “And, every time he drives through, he says, ‘Man, I could spend a little time here’.”
Earlier in the show, Seth Avett stated that Austin is the only city Scott has said he could live in other than their North Carolina hometown.
Anthony went on to say that he hoped what he was about to do may push the Avetts one step closer to spending some more time here.
Quoting Lyle Lovett, he said,
“That’s right, you’re not from Texas, but Texas wants you anyway.”
He then presented the band with honorary Texan certificates.
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Benson concluded the presentation by saying the guys were also given one of Aaron Franklin’s briskets.
That’s solid gold, right there.
Watch the full video of the presentation below.
The show was followed by an after-party celebrating the Long Center’s 10 year anniversary. Guests were treated to snacks by local restaurants like Hoover’s and Blue Basil, tasty Tito’s drinks with mixers by a.k.a. mixology, photos from StandUpCams and tunes spun by DJ Nixx.
Ain’t no man (or men) like the Avett Brothers.
Thanks to the Long Center for making the night so memorable. Check out their schedule for upcoming shows featuring Bill Murray, George Takei and more.
The Avett Brothers were last in Austin for the premiere of their HBO film May It Last. See pictures of their red carpet arrivals and more here.
