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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Culture Clash Magazine celebrates the vibrant music of Galveston with our 2025 Music Issue. Our island's sound is woven from diverse talents – blues veterans in bars, indie bands in historic venues, and classical ensembles in grand halls. They descend on Galveston to bring the community something special.
Galveston’s unique spirit fosters this eclectic musical landscape. It's about the passionate musicians and enthusiastic fans who create an infectious energy. Their shared love and collaboration shape the dynamic sound we have all come to cherish.
We are proud to guide you through this rich scene while also reaching out to the community for more information about any untapped artists or venues we may have missed. We aim to capture the stories and spirit that make Galveston what it is. We encourage you to pop into a new venue, see new artists, or promote the scene by hosting a show of your own. We can even help you book the talent!
Most of all we hope you read, enjoy, and share.
- Janese Maricelli
For this issue we recommend you have your QR code reader UP and your sound ON.
Write us an email or shoot us a comment any time online: CultureClashGalveston.com CultureClashGalveston@gmail.com
ON THE COVER: Joshua Duke is a BOI musician and visual artist, specializing in personalized, hyperspecific theme songs and portraits. Creating unique character songs through his band, The Sons of Nephilim, and his solo project, Average Joe and the Clones, Josh designs his own merchandise and promotional posters for shows. He has a passion for promoting local musicians and artists and is working toward connecting local talent in an effort to provide high quality merchandise to performers and businesses alike.
*This magazine is NOT printed on recycled paper or with soy-based inks YET! But we are working on it. Help us get there, advertise or sponsor us! E-mail for more details CultureClashGalveston@gmail.com.
Many dream of owning the stage, but what does it really mean to be a female DJ in today’s scene? Meanwhile, across the island, Galveston Musical Youth Camps are fostering a new generation of musicians. With guitars, keyboards, and creativity, local kids are finding their voices and turning up the volume.
Article and Photos By DJ Xyla
According to female:pressure, a database that publishes an annual report on the prevalence of women in EDM, only 9.2% of EDM festival artists were female in 2012, but the ratio soared to 26.9% in 2020-2021. Why has DJ’ing historically been maledominated and how has that been changing in recent years?
The surprised looks I have encountered simply from being a female DJ when many people still expect a man, has been quite confusing for me. I have never understood why DJ’ing has historically been maledominated. Nothing about it makes much sense.
I pulled from several different interviews and studies focusing on the gender imbalance, specifically in the EDM scene, as that is the scene I am most involved in. A paper by Ziyi Tang, outlines the factors that have contributed to the gender imbalance in the EDM industry, and unfortunately, but not very surprisingly, it is the same difficulties women face in just about every industry. These factors include but are not limited to; double standards, harassment, and a gender imbalance on the business side of the industry among record labels, promoters, and festival lineup creators. Up until very recently, men have remained the gatekeepers of success in the scene.
Tang writes, “It’s also no mystery that women are subjected to harassment and verbal abuse in the industry. An eminent Canadian musician and one of EDM’s most influential female pioneers, Grimes, shared that multiple
helps bridge the gap in all areas of life...
male producers have assaulted her sexually by claiming they won’t finish a track unless she goes back to their hotel room. In 2016, when the number of women in EDM was still pretty low, she said, “I don’t think there are few female producers because women aren’t interested… It’s a pretty hostile environment.”(1)
The top strategies that female DJs have developed to overcome discrimination have been forming allfemale collectives, training programs, supportive networks, female-owned record labels, and media/visibility initiatives. These strategies have directly addressed the problems that have prevented women from rising in the industry.
Personally, I am part of an allfemale collective that has helped me get gigs at venues that I would have otherwise had a more difficult time approaching on my own. I have also hosted all-female productions showcasing Texas talent, and by getting their names out there, many of those women have
gone on to experience success in the industry. Women supporting women helps bridge the gap in all areas of life, especially in a patriarchal society that still would rather see us take a backseat.
One of my favorite moments is seeing a little girl dancing to my music at an event, and her mom coming up to me and telling me she was so excited for her daughter to see a woman DJ because that is something she is interested in, and they had hardly seen any, especially here in Galveston. Representation matters. Being yourself in a world that would rather you just be quiet may never be easy but it is so important.
Works Cited
1. How Female DJs and Producers Narrowed the Gender Gap in Electronic Dance Music: Strategies and Campaign that have been Successful in the Last Decade|By: Ziyi Tang
2. Today’s Challenges of Being a Female DJ|By: Annija Barbale https://www.uniqcube.com/todays-challenges-of-being-a-femaledj/
summer reading programs for all ages
Dive into a good book - or severalthis summer and win prizes, participate in activities, attend events, and make new friends!
Moody Gardens Palm Beach Summer Reading
EVENTS
Kickoff: May 30, 5-7:30 PM rosenberg-library.org
Article and Photos By Jeb Adame
The Galveston community is thrilled to host a handson program for children to participate in music instruction, music theory, event promotion, and production. The Galveston Musical Youth Camp mission is to seek out motivated children who may or may not have the resources to participate in the costly purchase of instruments and instruction in music.
With complete inclusion, this camp hopes to discover talent that could otherwise be overlooked or underappreciated and offer resources to develop that talent into a lifelong skill that can be shared professionally or with friends, family, and community.
The 2025 camp is made possible in part by a grant awarded from the City of Galveston Cultural Arts Commission. Starting on July 14 at Wright Cuney Recreation Center, 50 kids will receive free musical training after first being placed in bands based on their experience and ability.
The bands will train with professional instructors Monday through Friday in preparation for live performances on Friday and Saturday night. While the production will be provided by Galveston's U.S. Backline, Galveston Musical Youth Camp is still taking donations of musical instruments like guitars, basses, drums and keyboards. There are also plenty of opportunities to sponsor healthy snacks to keep the kids powered up and motivated.
Contribute to the 2025 Galveston Musical Youth Camp. Contact Jeb Adame at jeb@usbackline. com, or send a check payable to Galveston Musical Youth c/o U.S. Backline, P.O. Box 2033, Galveston, TX 77553. Please include how you would like to be named as a sponsor.
BIG THANKS to the entire community of Galveston for their support in making this camp possible. More info at GalvestonMusicalYouth.com
Galveston’s hip hop scene is rooted in the historic underground of the island. Artists like Jo3 B1 Kenobi are leading with grit, truth, and island flavor. Also on the radar, the next wave of Galveston talent. These powerhouse musicians are the island's ones to watch.
By Robert Kuhn
Galveston Island might be known for its sun-drenched beaches and haunted history, but beneath the salt and sea air, a new wave of musicians is stirring up something wild and wonderful. From porch-front poets with beat-up guitars to synth-slinging dreamers reimagining Gulf Coast soundscapes, the local music scene is having a moment—and it’s loud, proud, and unmistakably original. As someone who’s watched this island evolve from both the stage and the sidelines, I’m here to tell you: something electric is happening on the sandbar. Here are a few of the artists turning up the tide.
Tyson Webb, a singer-songwriter hailing from Galveston County, brings a blend of old soul wisdom and the grit of a seasoned traveler. Drawing inspiration from legends like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Townes Van Zandt, Tyson’s sound strikes a chord with audiences across Texas. With a repertoire of classic hits and powerful originals, he’s gaining fans at venues from Galveston to Terlingua. In 2025, Tyson will be performing monthly at Hotel Lucine in Galveston and Dan Electro’s in Houston, with plenty of other shows in between. Keep an eye on this rising star!
Raa’Shane Tansiel, better known as Raa’, is a musician, vocalist, and instrumentalist whose Southern roots run deep. Born and raised in Port Allen, Louisiana, Raa’s musical journey began at age seven, when his mother introduced him to church music with a rendition of “Shake the Devil Off.” Encouraged by his grandmother, he learned piano and guitar, and by fourteen, he was directing choirs and performing professionally. Now based near Houston, Raa’ is making a name for himself, especially in Galveston, with his mix of country, soul, and folk. His rich vocals and authentic storytelling resonate with audiences, solidifying his place in the Texas music scene.
Benji Ramsel & Alana Stevenson
After Mañana is an indie duo from Galveston, Texas, blending raw storytelling with soulful melodies from the Gulf Coast. Their sound mixes indie, alternative, and folk influences, creating an intimate yet electrifying experience. The duo draws inspiration from past and present art, as well as the ever-changing tides of the region. Their music evokes nostalgia, current experiences, and the thrill of new horizons.
Austin Gaston
Austin Gaston is a singersongwriter originally from College Station, Texas, now contributing to Galveston's vibrant music scene. His musical style blends elements of blues, folk, and indie rock, drawing inspiration from artists like Blues Traveler, Bright Eyes, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Modest Mouse, and The Flaming Lips.
His performances often feature a mix of original compositions and covers, reflecting his diverse influences and the unique cultural tapestry of Galveston.
India Tigers in Texas New Album Coming Soon
The psychedelic rockers of India Tigers in Texas are gearing up for the release of their highly anticipated second album, DOSE. Although a release date hasn’t been set yet, fans can expect the album to drop in the fall 2025.
Since their debut album in 2019, the band has gained recognition in the Texas psychedelic scene, performing alongside artists like The Shivas, Death Valley Girls, and Frankie and the Witch Fingers. With their signature highenergy performances and evolving sound, India Tigers in Texas is sure to continue captivating their growing fanbase.
Galvezton New Album "Ocean Cabaret"
Robert Kuhn, the driving force behind La Izquierda Records, is set to release Ocean
Cabaret, a collection of 11 original love songs, including the hit “Roll to Gtown” featuring BunB, Paul Wall, and Rich O’Toole. All songs on the album were written, recorded, and performed by Kuhn. Preview the album on SoundCloud now.
releasing music in the early 2000s. Despite its smaller size, the island has long been home to a vibrant hip-hop community, led by local legends like Witch Doctor and Jack the Ripley—artists who paved the way before him and are still creating today.
Now 41, Jo3 has spent much of his career balancing his Galveston identity with connections to Houston’s expansive music scene. “It’s hard for any one artist to break out of Galveston, especially since we’re kind of like Houston’s little brother,” he explains. Though he grew up and worked in Houston, Jo3 never lost sight of his roots. Still, the struggle for recognition in his hometown has been real.
While some Galveston venues have hosted local talent, hip-hop artists have often been overlooked in favor of more mainstream or commercially established acts. “Places on the Strand would book
Galveston, Texas, a coastal city with a rich musical legacy, has often been eclipsed by neighboring Houston when it comes to hip-hop. But local artist Jo3 B1 Kenobi, a 20-year veteran of the scene, wants to set the record straight: Galveston has deep roots in hip-hop that deserve recognition.
“There’s actually a strong connection between hiphop and Galveston that goes back a long way,” says Jo3, who began
names like Wiz Khalifa but rarely gave local hip-hop a chance,” he says. In contrast, Houston welcomed him and many others, providing performance spaces like Scout Bar and a collaborative, supportive environment.
That difference in support has led many Galvestonbased artists to shift their focus to Houston, seeking better opportunities. “I’ve been making music here for 25 years, but I’ve only performed on the island a handful of times,” Jo3 says. “Meanwhile, I’ve played dozens of shows in Houston.”
The decline of Galveston’s hip-hop infrastructure accelerated after Hurricane Ike, which reshaped the city’s demographics. “A lot of the community that supported hip-hop left. The audience still exists, but there’s no infrastructure to support the culture,” he says.
LISTEN NOW ON SPOTIFY
Now, as Galveston seeks designation as a “Texas Music Friendly City,” Jo3 sees a renewed opportunity to reshape the local music scene. The city has a rich legacy in genres like blues, R&B, and soul—Barry White even called Galveston home. Jo3 believes that with minimal effort, the city could create platforms for hip-hop to thrive alongside those historic genres.
He envisions locally curated events that spotlight not just blues and jazz, but also hip-hop. “That could be a big step for Galveston’s music scene,” he says. While marquee events like Mardi Gras bring bigname performers such as Bun B to town, Jo3 stresses the importance of more consistent, grassroots efforts. “We need regular events—maybe a monthly hip-hop night at a local venue—to build an audience and scene from the ground up.”
In the meantime, Jo3 has been growing his audience online. “My music is more niche, but the internet has helped me reach more people than I ever thought possible. Still, it would mean a lot to get that love here in Galveston,” he shares. For him, success isn’t about fame or money—it’s about connection and impact. "Hip-hop transcends words and emotions. It touches the soul in ways that few other things can," he says. He often gives his music away, driven by a deep love for the craft.
Hip-hop transcends words and emotions. It touches the soul in ways that few other things can.
"Galveston’s artists are doing amazing things. We just need the recognition," he emphasizes. He believes that the island has the potential to foster a vibrant hip-hop scene, with more efforts to celebrate local talent and create spaces where all genres of music can thrive.
Jo3’s journey reflects the broader struggles and hopes of Galveston’s hip-hop community. As the city pushes to become more music-friendly, there’s an opportunity to embrace a more inclusive music scene that recognizes and nurtures local talent across all genres. The recognition and support of Galveston’s homegrown hip-hop talent could play a pivotal role in shaping the island’s musical future. The time to spotlight local artists is now, and Galveston’s music scene, rich in history and diverse in talent, is ready for the world to see.
For this issue of Culture Clash, we went straight to the source. We brought together a crew of Galveston’s own musicians, pulled up some chairs, and asked them to get real about the island’s music scene—what’s working, what’s missing, and what makes it magic. Steering the conversation is Culture Clash publisher, Janese Maricelli, who gets the insiders’ take on the sound, soul, and struggles of making music on this little sandbar. Here’s what they had to say.
FEATURE: MUSICIANS' ROUNDTABLE
What draws you to Galveston as a place to make music?
I think Galveston is, by far, one of the most talented cities I’ve ever been to. Per capita, the talent in Galveston is unreal. Whether they’re from here or chose to be here, the musicians in Galveston are exceptional.
I also feel like it’s a spirit—something that has always been here. It’s inspiration, it’s romanticism, it’s architecture, music, food—it’s everything that makes this island special. That energy carries on through generations. It definitely drew me here.
Sasha:
It’s easier to get in a creative space here. You step outside and see the ocean, birds, beauty— it’s like we live in a permanent vacation.
Walker:
Galveston has this deep history. People all over the world know the name, and there are so many songs about it.
Janese:
Austin:
What’s the scene like right now?
It’s wildly diverse. You get every genre and so many perspectives. There’s something for everyone.
Janese:
LYDA:
LYDA, you grew up here—how has the scene changed?
It’s grown a lot. When I was starting out, Mod Coffeehouse was the only real venue. Now there’s more opportunity, more venues, and recognition—being named a Texas Music-Friendly City was a big deal. I feel like I’m helping shape the next phase.
Janese:
Benji:
Austin:
Let's talk about that Music-Friendly designation—how do you feel about it?
Right now, it feels like a tourism label more than actual support.
Like what Benji said—it’s more for tourism. The real challenge is getting the city on board.
It’s the spirit of the island—romanticism, architecture, food, music. It pulls people in and inspires creativity.
So maybe this is a new label that the city and park board haven’t quite figured out how to communicate yet—or maybe they’re working on it. If you could say one thing to the powers that be—those responsible for promoting Galveston and its live music scene—what would it be?
Janese: Sasha:
Fund the music and stop penalizing street performers. Venues like Mod and Proletariat are showing up, but the city still has work to do.
Walker:
The Music-Friendly City label is like a big fancy jacket, but right now, Galveston is just a skeleton within that jacket. We still need to fill it out. Historically, when you think of a tourist city, you think of cover bands. But what I love about Galveston, is that everyone in this room right now, writes and performs original music. That’s what I want Galveston to be known for.
Benji:
Janese:
Austin:
Yeah, you’ve gotta train your tourists. We don’t want to just play Jimmy Buffett all day.
Speaking of, how do you feel about the balance between cover bands and original music?
Cover bands are performing other people’s work, not creating their own. We have so many musicians here making original music—trying to get their art out into the world. Most of us mix covers and originals. It’s not black and white—just a balance.
Sasha:
When I moved here, it was mostly cover bands. That’s shifted. People are stepping into their original work, and audiences are open to it.
Austin:
I think the more original artists that emerge, the more we inspire that mindset. A lot of these cover bands actually want to transition into original bands.
Sasha:
Maybe they just didn’t have the courage, so they held back. It’s extremely vulnerable, as we all know, to put a new song you wrote out into the world instead of playing something familiar. I think some singersongwriters hide behind covers because they don’t fully believe in their own work yet.
Janese:
DJ Xyla, you bring a different style to the scene— how’s that been?
DJ Xyla:
It’s a challenge. My sound—dark techno, opera, classical—isn’t common here. But I love how Galveston’s gothic vibe fits it. I did a Victorian techno rave at Ashton Villa with live musicians, opera, dancers—super collaborative and cool.
Galveston Arts Center has been great, too. Some bars though—eh, they just want Top 40 and don’t care about the vision.
Janese:
Does anyone else want to mention music-friendly venues that allow you to play original music?
ALL:
Austin:
Sasha:
Hotel Lucine.
1877, Old Galveston Club, Old Quarter.
Big shout-out to Becky Major and the Misfits Group—they really trust artists to do their thing. Also, Marmo has been super welcoming.
Benji:
Alana:
Janese:
DTO.
Indies—they’re even live-streaming shows now.
Let’s wrap this up with a final question. What was your most memorable or favorite performance in Galveston?
LYDA:
My first gig at Mod. I was 17, and every seat was filled. It was my first time playing my original music, and I was terrified. Afterward, I cried and said I’d never do it again—until I saw the pictures and videos people took. That moment was huge for me. Without it, I wouldn’t have kept growing and doing what I do now.
Austin:
For me, it was the Sandcastle Festival last year. It was probably the biggest crowd I’ve ever performed for. It was a hot day, and I may have had a little too much to drink beforehand— but somehow, I still nailed it. It felt like the spirit of singer-songwriters was carrying me through. It’s one of those performances I’ll never forget.
Benji:
I’ve played the Shrimp Festival a couple of times, and one year in particular was just amazing— such a great crowd. But I think my favorite show is yet to come… probably La Izquierda.
Sean:
One of my most memorable shows was at The Proletariat—possibly their first-ever show, before they were even fully open. Becky just made it happen—there was no power, so we pulled in extension cords from the lofts, set up construction spotlights, and put on a live show. It was a perfect example of the Galveston spirit: "We’re going to make this happen, no matter what."
That’s the struggle: finding venues that value creativity, not just background noise.
Sasha:
Becky just opened the doors, and people wandered in from the street, curious about what was happening. That’s so Galveston. Another great memory was our recent masquerade ball at Marmo. We had a full band—including a drummer, which was a first for me. Mary Ruth was performing aerial silks and burlesque to our live music, which was something truly special. Seeing different art forms come together in that way was incredible.
Walker:
My most memorable moment was playing a main stage Mardi Gras gig back in 2012. At first, the crowd was hanging back, but by the second or third song, they all filtered up to the stage. It was one of those moments where your hair stands on end, and you get that warm rush of affirmation.
DJ Xyla:
I love that Galveston is a place where you can bring ideas to life that might not fly elsewhere. When I put on the Victorian techno rave, I wasn’t sure the historical foundation would go for it. I mean—fire spinners in an 1800s building? But they were like, "That sounds cool!" That openness and creative freedom make this place so special.
Clark:
For years, we played on a balcony at 25th Street during Mardi Gras, setting up in between the marching bands. The crowds were always there—it wasn’t contrived or forced. It just felt natural. There’s also a great house party scene here, where people really pay attention to the music.
Janese:
Galveston really is like the Wild West of coastal communities— anything goes. Thank you all for bringing culture, excitement, and music to this island. I appreciate every single one of you.
BY JESSICA SAFAVIMEHR
Galveston, Texas, has officially been designated as a Texas Music Friendly Certified Community, a recognition awarded by the Texas Music Office (TMO). This achievement marks a major milestone for the island, underscoring its dedication to supporting local musicians, venues, and cultural experiences while carving out a place alongside other iconic Texas music cities like Austin, Houston, and San Antonio.
According to Tony Lyle, Executive Director of the Galveston Park Board, “This designation means Galveston is officially on the map as a city that values and supports its music community. It’s a great step forward in making sure our local musicians, venues, and music businesses have the tools and opportunities to grow.”
Since the program’s launch in 2016, over 60 communities across the state have earned the Music Friendly title, joining a network that celebrates music as both a cultural and economic asset. Galveston’s inclusion highlights not only its historical contributions to Texas music but also the city’s commitment to expanding access and appreciation for live performance.
From major touring acts at the Grand 1894 Opera House to grassroots showcases like La Izquierda’s “Save the Locals” concert series, Galveston offers a diverse musical landscape. The city is a haven for everything from laid-back acoustic sets to high-energy full band performances at larger venues like Moody Gardens.
Galveston’s musical roots run deep. The Grand 1894 Opera House, standing since the late 19th century, has long been a pillar of performance on the island. Celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2025, the venue continues to host an eclectic mix of opera, classical, Broadway, and modern acts.
Equally beloved is the Old Quarter Acoustic Café, a listeningroom-style venue that has welcomed legends like Hayes Carll, Kevin Anthony, Robert Kuhn, and ZZ Top’s Dusty Hill. Known for its intimate atmosphere, the Old Quarter has become a staple of Galveston’s authentic sound.
While some iconic venues like the historic Balinese Room may no longer be around, the spirit of Galveston’s music scene remains strong. Today, you can find performances in nearly every corner of the island—coffee shops, bars, breweries, art galleries, and even hotel rooftops. Postoffice Street comes alive with the sound of music drifting from open doors and patios.
For a sunset experience with a soundtrack, Hotel Lucine’s “Sunsets & Sounds” series has become a crowd favorite. Meanwhile, Daiquiri Time Out continues to serve as a gathering spot for local music lovers, often hosting album release parties and intimate showcases.
Galveston also hosts several standout festivals that put it firmly on the music map.
The Island Vybz Reggae Fest, Galveston Island Country Music Fest, and Strand Summer Music Series attract talent from across the region and globe. These events not only entertain but also uplift local artists by offering them space on the same stage as national and international performers.
With this new certification in hand, the future looks bright. In 2025, artists like Lyle Lovett, Johnny Mathis, and The Righteous Brothers are set to perform, drawing even more attention to Galveston’s growing influence in the live music world.
But the designation isn’t just a badge of honor—it’s a promise. Backed by the TMO and the City of Galveston, the certification means increased support, funding, and visibility for the island’s music scene. It opens doors to more performance opportunities, larger audiences, and sustainable growth for everyone involved in Galveston’s creative economy.
Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, there’s never been a better time to explore the soundscape of Galveston. The island’s rhythm is strong, its stage is set, and the music is only getting louder.
Save the Locals began during the pandemic as a way to reconnect the Galveston community through the power of live music. By 2021, the historic Menard Park bandshell was brought back to life, becoming the perfect venue to revive the island’s local music scene.
What started as a grassroots, donation-based effort has grown into a beloved summer tradition supported by the community and La Izquierda Fest. The free concert series runs every Thursday evening in June and July, from 6–9 PM, showcasing local and regional talent while celebrating Galveston’s creative spirit. To keep the music going, supporters can donate, sponsor a show, or grab a ticket to La Izquierda Fest at LaIzquierdaFest.org
is your juiciest celeb story that happened on the island?
Evan:
Elisha:
Back during COVID, my family and I started roller skating and one of our favorite YouTubers was Indy Jamma Jones. It's her roller derby name, and we watched her all the time. Super cool girl to watch and get roller skating tips from. One day I’m here in Galveston at Home Depot, and I look up, and lo and behold, there comes Indy Jamma Jones walking towards me. And I thought, she's in Venice Beach, California. That can't possibly be her.
So when she walked past me, I just said, “Indy Jamma!” and she froze and turned around and said “Yes!” and I was like, “Are you Indy Jamma Jones?” And she said, “Yes, how do you know who I am?” And so I told her how we watched her channel and she said she had moved back to Galveston because she was originally from Pearland. I'd run into her all the time at the Proletariat and at different places around town, always so nice. She was like a star here among us.
I’ve met Ollie Dickens a few times, he is one of the direct descendants of Charles Dickens. He signed our copy of the Christmas Carol and we got our picture taken with him.
One of my favorite parts of Dickens on the Strand is when Ollie reads Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ and reenacts it. One time last year he did it on the Strand while it was cold and rainy, almost like we were in London!
Kieran:
I'm a bit of a history buff, so when I heard that Clifton Daniel was going to be portraying his grandfather Harry Truman in the play 'Give 'em Hell, Harry!' at the Grand back in 2019 I just had to go check it out.
Clifton put on a stellar performance, and after the play, my friend and I had the chance to chat with him for a while. He told us all about how he got into acting, and about all the questions people would ask him about his grandfather. And later, I read the book ‘Growing Up With My Grandfather’, and I'm really glad I got to see him put on that performance.
Brooke:
I don’t have a wild celebrity story, but I did get to be a background actor in season two of 1923! My scene was filmed at the Galveston Railroad Museum, and we started the day with hair and makeup at the community center. Once on set, everyone had a small role—I was paired with a “husband,” and we pretended to get tickets just as actress Julia Schlaepfer walked in. She even smiled and said hello!
Originally, we were supposed to go to the same ticket window as her, but the director moved us so we wouldn’t block the shot. Funny enough, when Julia posted that scene's picture for the week on her Instagram, you can see me in the background behind her at the ticket window.
Being on set was a really cool experience. It looks exactly like what people think it does in the movies, where they yell cut, and all these people come out, and they fix your hair and makeup, and they make sure everything's in the right place to start the scene over. They film the scene from so many different angles.
Whether you are looking for easy listening or hard rock, our island has something for everyone. BOI artist and musician, Joshua Duke, demonstrates his love for the Galveston music scene through hand-drawn posters, self-made merch, and visual art. Samples of Josh's work below illustrate his unique style.
COOLTURE: FEATURED
Born and raised on Galveston Island, Joshua Duke’s creative path began early with piano lessons from his mother. Though grueling at the time, that classical foundation helped when he later took up drums— thanks to his father’s church band dreams and his older brother splitting the cost of his first kit. Playing along to his brother’s original songs, Josh fell in love with collaboration and songwriting. Eventually, he circled back to piano, this time writing his own material, finally appreciating the years of training he once resisted.
Alongside music, Josh was constantly drawing—monsters, warriors, and heroes—heavily inspired by his older brother, who passed down comic book and anatomy knowledge. Josh has since mastered the human form in his own whimsical style. He produces band posters and now two covers for Culture Clash Magazine, including this issue.
Though both visual and musical arts shaped his youth, Josh leaned into music as a career path, enrolling in Music Composition at Stephen F. Austin University. There, film scoring fed his love of storytelling.
Josh has found a unique way to combine his lifelong passions—music, spoken word, visual art, and community engagement—into a fulfilling career. From composing custom theme songs for local businesses to designing posters, performing original music, and conceptualizing immersive art experiences, he’s crafting a creative life on his own terms. His work blurs the lines between entertainment and activism, using art as a vehicle for connection, sustainability, and celebration of local culture.
Driven by a belief in narrative building, collaboration, and tradition, Josh Duke is helping shape a new model for music and art in Galveston—one rooted in passion, resilience, and collective imagination.
CATCH Josh Duke AT THE NEXT SONS OF NEPHILIM SHOW
REACH OUT FOR YOUR VERY OWN CUSTOM GIG POSTER OR THEME SONG
GALVESTON ARTWALK
May 10 & June 14 | 6 PM
Downtown Entertainment District
Enjoy an evening of art, culture, and gallery hopping as local artists showcase their work along The Strand.
Admission: Free
ART MARKET
May 10 | 4 PM
Galveston Arts Center
ArtWalk's Art Market features multiple artists and live music by Songs for Lila.
Admission: Free
SAVE THE LOCALS
Every Thursday | 6:30 PM
Menard Park
Weekly free live music from a variety of artists, including kids activities. Bring chairs, blankets, refreshments and your dancing shoes
Admission: Free
STRAND SUMMER MUSIC NIGHTS
May 31 & June 7 | 7 PM
Saengerfest Park
Performances are family friendly with on-site beer and wine, select vendors, and a reserved VIP area with reserved seating, complimentary drinks, meet and greets, and more! Bring your lawn chair, blanket and cooler.
Admission: Free
SIDEWALK SESSIONS
Every Wednesday | 8:30 PM
The Proletariat
Weekly free live music from a variety of artists, complete with bubbles. Set-up on the sidewalk with chairs and refreshments.
Admission: Free
Every Saturday & Sunday | May Through August
Hotel Lucine Rooftop Bar
May 23, Fri Tyson Webb, Émilie Clepper & Friends
May 24, Sat Bayou City Funk
May 25, Sun Ice House Radio
May 31, Sat CAZAYOUX
June 6, Fri Galvezton
June 7, Sat Micah Edwards
June 13, Fri Songs For Lila
June 14, Sat Nether Hour
June 20, Fri Pierre James
June 21, Sat Alex Maas
June 27, Fri Sherita Perez
June 28, Sat Fulton Lee
Admission: Free
FREE on Mon. Wed. and Fri. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Located in the Galveston County Courthouse
722 Moody/21st Street
EN BLANC SCHOLARSHIP GALA
June 7 | 7 PM | Galveston Island Convention Center
EMANCIPATION GOSPEL CELEBRATION CONCERT
June 8 | 4 PM | The Grand 1894 Opera House
1ST ANNUAL THE BLVD JUNETEENTH GOLF TOURNAMENT
June 12-15 | Moody Gardens Golf Course
GALVESTON ISLAND JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL & CELEBRATION
June 14 | 1 PM | McGuire-Dent Recreation Center
THE BLVD JUNETEENTH SIDEWALK POETRY SESSION
June 14 | 8:30 PM | The Proletariat Gallery & Public House
SUMMER POPS: 3RD ANNUAL JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
June 15 | 4 PM | The Grand 1894 Opera House
JUNETEENTH EMANCIPATION MARCH AND EMANCIPATION SERVICE AT REEDY CHAPEL
June 19 | 12 PM | Reedy Chapel AME Church
JUNETEENTH PARADE & PICNIC
June 19 | 3 PM | Ball St from 26th to 41st
JUNETEENTH 160: FREEDOM, FIREWORKS & FAMILY
June 19 | 5 PM | Menard Park
JUNETEENTH IS A CELEBRATION, EMANCIPATION IS FREEDOM | LECTURE BY NAOMI CARRIER
June 20 | 5:30 PM | The Bryan Museum
JUNETEENTH RED CARPET MEET & GREET
June 21 | 6:00 PM | The Grand 1894 Opera House
GALVESTON'S COURVILLE STADIUM & THE PRAIRIE VIEW INTERSCHOLASTIC LEAGUE
June 24 | 11:30 AM | 1859 Ashton Villa
JANMAR AGENCY IS GALVESTON COUNTY’S GO-TO FOR MARKETING AND DESIGN! TAKE YOUR BUSINESS OR NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION TO THE NEXT LEVEL.
