When it comes Houston, it’s hard to ignore the notoriety of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo or that of grillz from Johnny Dang & Co.
As I worked on this cover graphic, I used these two factors as my muse, while ensuring I included a pop of red as a nod to UH’s cultural relevance here in Houston.
WRITERS
Camryn Alberigo
Cindy Rivas Alfaro
Gauraangi Gupta
Joshua Vasquez
Megan Biasiolli
Melisa Unlu
Raphael Fernandez
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Cooglife 10TH Anniversary Limitted Edition Merch
Table of Contents | Contributor Credits & Editor’s Note
10 Years of Cooglife • Catch Up with Past Editors
This is Space City, Where the Art Scene is Out of This World
What It’s Like to Eat Like A Local in Houston From Boots to Grillz, Unlayering Houston Fashion
What It’s Really Like Living in One of America’s Most Diverse Cities
But Do You Know The City and Teams You Rep?
Songs To Get You Indoctrinated • Brought to You by Coog Radio
The Sounds of Houston’s Music Scene
EDITOR’S NOTE
Yo, Houston!
Over the last 10 years, each executive editor of Cooglife has been tasked with curating a Welcome to Houston issue. In fact, the first ever issue of the magazine was a Welcome to Houston one.
As I planned this 10th anniversary print with the rest of the team, my two visions were to honor the legacy of the magazine and to depict H-town the way I see and admire it.
The love I’ve developed for this city over the last three years is inexplicable, but the goal was to communicate it through this issue.
So, in tribute to all the great editors before me and to this great city, here’s the 2025 Welcome to Houston issue. I hope it inspires a renewed appreciation and love for the city.
Run this one up for the H, y’all!
Anastasia Rivera
Joshua Vasquez
Larsha Flowers
Raphael Fernandez ARTISTS
Coog Radio OTHER CONTRIBUTORS
Until the next print, Stay tippin’,
Larsha Flowers | Executive Editor
TEN YEARS OF COOGLIFE
By Cindy Rivas Alfaro
A decade has passed since this magazine released its first edition, and it’s become a staple from the Center of Student Media.
Editors over the years have slumped over their desks, staring at InDesign as they drafted eye-catching print layouts to pair with heartfelt stories.
The essence of Cooglife builds on the passion of each editor that inherits it, creating a culture that embodies individualistic flair rather than a strict mold.
At Cooglife, University of Houston student voices are empowered. It’s the place where they evolve on paper.
To celebrate this anniversary issue, we caught up with a few Cooglife executive editors from the past five years to reflect on what they learned from their time at the magazine and catch up with what they’re doing now.
Autumn Rendall, 2020-21, started off during the pandemic when masks and social distancing were at an all-time high.
Working on the magazine brought a sense of normalcy and routine for her when all one could see were people’s eyes above their masks.
Despite the literal distance between her and her writers, Cooglife still strived to be a space for students to discover themselves.
“I think that the most interesting stories, reviews or whatever come from things that we’re passionate about, something that people could just talk ad nauseam about, “ Rendall said.
“There is so much you can do while working on
a community-building project like Cooglife. It’s really the place to hone in on your skills.”
Cooglife is where Rendall found her passion for editorial planning, picking and choosing what stories get to be laid out on the pages for the UH community to see. It led to her career pivot from journalism to corporate communications.
After two years at her corporate communications job, she’ll soon be making the big move to Paris, a feat she feels was made possible because of Cooglife.
“I’m able to not only do a job that I’m passionate about, but move to the dream city I’ve always wanted to move to ever since I was a kid,” Rendall said. “Cooglife had a direct impact on me being able to make that happen.”
McKenzie Misiaszek, 2021-22
One of Cooglife’s more scandalous editions featured rose toys, handcuffs and vibrators all laid out on the cover. Copies of the print still get talked about years later.
This iconic edition was made by McKenzie Misiaszek, who led Cooglife from 2021 to 2022.
“Cooglife is supposed to be fun. Most people will never get the chance to write what they want and have it published and share it with the world in a beautiful laid out medium,” Misiaszek said.
“I think that’s something people don’t realize while they’re in college. It’s really an opportunity to explore your writing and yourself.”
But just like writing fun things is important, knowing what goes on the page matters even more.
Misiaszek understands the importance of editorial liberty while also shouldering the responsibility of readers placing immense trust in the words written on published paper.
“People forget how powerful writing is and how people will kind of just believe whatever they see on a page, especially if it’s published,” Misiaszek said.
“They will assume that you might have taken factchecking liberties and that whatever you’re citing is reliable. That’s a big responsibility to be able to shape somebody’s perception or thoughts about something, especially in the time that we’re in.”
Cooglife makes you pay attention to details like these. It makes sense Misiaszek landed a role as a senior writer for an elected official.
Sydney Rose, 2023-24, was entangled with Cooglife her entire undergraduate career before having her full circle moment of becoming its executive editor.
Working at Cooglife led her to teach English abroad in Spain, something she feels tied closely with her time at the student magazine.
“That experience of being in charge of a whole team of writers, photographers and graphic designers carried over to trying to teach a foreign language to 10-yearolds,” Rose said.
“Managing a classroom is very similar to managing a college magazine office, and I was able to kind of take the patience that I had and knowing about different people’s learning styles to become a teacher.”
When it comes to her writing, one of her favorite articles involved researching the concept of virginity and its application in queer spaces, particularly in relation to health and societal perceptions.
There’s a freedom that comes with writing for Cooglife, and this piece embodied that.
“I feel like that article was a really good highlight, because as I was building it, as I was shaping it, I was learning not just about my own stance, but other people’s stances,” Rose said. “It just became one of my favorite pieces.”
After returning from her teaching job in Spain, Rose will be heading to Germany to become an au pair, holding that streak of working with children.
Stay Connected
THIS IS SPACE CITY, WHERE THE ART SCENE IS OUT OF THIS WORLD
Article By Melisa Unlu
MFAH Photos by Joshua Vasquez Graffitti Photo by Raphael Fernandez
With a vibrant performing arts, fine arts, and street art scene that has grown steadily over the last century, Houston is a creative powerhouse.
From world-class ballet and opera to cutting-edge theater and renowned art museums, the city’s creative pulse beats as strongly as its economic one.
Houston’s artistic identity reflects a blend of global influences and local innovation, with institutions and artists that have shaped both the city and the broader cultural landscape.
Houston’s performing arts scene began in 1955 with the rise of interest in Houston Ballet.
Houston Ballet Academy was founded by Tatiana Semenova, a Russian-born ballet dancer and dance teacher.
It became one of America’s foremost dance training institutions, producing dancers who have since performed with prestigious companies such as Houston Ballet, The Australian Ballet, American Ballet Theatre and San Francisco Ballet.
In 1969, the Houston Ballet became a professional company under the leadership of celebrated Russian-born American ballet dancer Nina Popova and the artistic direction of Ben Stevenson.
The company gained international stature by becoming one of the first American ballet companies to perform in China in 1979 and again in 1985. It was also one of the first to perform in the Soviet Union in 1988.
The company quickly rose to be known for new choreography and original works, as well as helping to develop American ballet with original commissions and launching careers of dancers such as Carlos Acosta and Li Cunxin.
Houston’s theatrical roots emerged around 1947 with Nina Vance, the founder and first artistic director of the Alley Theatre.
In 1968, the Alley Theatre opened its iconic brutalist-style building downtown and gained recognition as one of the most respected regional theaters in the U.S.
Known for a mix of classics, modern dramas and
new works with a strong emphasis on resident acting, it continues to lead Houston’s theater scene.
Following the rise of Alley Theatre in Houston and Houston Ballet Academy, Houston Grand Opera was founded and quickly became one of America’s top five opera companies.
Houston’s fine arts and sculpture scene also boomed during this time.
Over the 20th century, Houston developed a reputation for supporting both classical and contemporary visual arts. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, established in 1900, is now one of the largest art museums in the U.S.
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, hosts an expansive collection spanning over 6,000 years, including works by Van Gogh, O’Keeffe and other international contemporary artists.
Four hours can be easily spent at the museum going through the collection of nearly 80,000 works from six continents.
By gallery-space, the museum is also the secondlargest art museum in the Americas.
Additionally, The Menil Collection, founded in 1987, is known for its world-renowned collection of modern and surrealist works.
The museum, opened to the public in June 1987 and governed by The Menil Foundation Inc., includes early to mid-20th-century works as well as an extensive collection of pop art and contemporary art.
The museum also houses antiquities and works of Byzantine, medieval and tribal art.
In a similar vein, Houston is also home to free museums such as the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, founded in 1948 and dedicated to presenting contemporary art and showcasing emerging artists.
Over the decades, Houston has transformed into a global arts destination, where tradition and innovation thrive side by side. Whether on a stage or in a gallery, Houston’s creative spirit continues to inspire, evolve and leave its mark.
MFAH
HOUSTON’S ART SCENE ISN’T LIMITED TO BEHIND WALLS.
Despite Houston’s iconic Graffiti Park in East Downtown undergoing demolition in Summer 2025 to make way for TxDOT’s I-45 expansion, vibrant street art remains on full display throughout the city.
Murals still coat the exterior of many businesses exteriors, parking garages and underpasses, featuring works by local and visiting artists.
Initiatives such as “Big Art. Bigger Change.” campaign have added dozens of murals since 2022, turning Houston’s urban landscape into a dynamic outdoor gallery that continues to inspire and evolve.
What It’s Like to Eat Like A Local in Houston
Written By Gauraangi Gupta | Photos By Larsha Flowers
Houston boasts a diverse culinary scene. Having recently been named the “Newest capital of great food” and “The country’s most exciting food city,” the food scene in the city is constantly growing. In recent years, Houston has become a serious rival to well-known food cities like New York, Los Angeles and New Orleans. Residents and visitors alike can find a wide variety of foods, inspired by cuisines from almost all parts of the world.Constantly gaining recognition for its innovation, and with over 10,000 restaurants representing over 70 cuisines, the city has only solidified its place as a culinary destination.
In Chinatown and Bellaire, foodies can try authentic Asian cuisines, as well as the renowned Vietnamese-Cajun crawfish, a dish unique to Houston. Hillcroft, on the other hand, has become the heart of Indian cuisine in Houston, offering everything from traditional dishes to fusion styles like IndoChinese and Indo-Pak. For breezy evenings, Historic Heights is there to provide a top-notch wining and dining experience. For more authentic Houston dining experiences, there is the
Market Square Historic District, which houses the oldest bar in Houston, La Carafe. Here, foodies can find American and Tex-Mex food.
Eating in Houston also means eating from high achievement chefs and establishments. Benchawan Jabthong Painter of Street to Kitchen was the first Houstonian to win Best Chef: Texas in 2023. Thomas Bille of Belly of the Beast recently won the 2025 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Texas as well. Houston chef Tristen Epps won the 2025 season of Bravo’s "Top Chef," showcasing his Afro-Caribbean cuisine and becoming the first Houstonian to win the title.
In the early 2000s, the restaurant Irma's received the James Beard Foundation’s America’s Classic Award, highlighting its timeless appeal and reflection of the city's culture. More recently, modern Indian restaurant Musaafer became the sixth Michelin-starred restaurant in the Houston area. Musaafer guests can try various Indian fusion dishes, including both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
What truly sets the Houston food scene apart, though, is the accessibility and authenticity. From different brunch spots and fusions to street food and Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers a highly accessible and dynamic food landscape. There is always something for everyone. You name it; you’ll find it.
With the growing popularity of influencers, many food critics have also naturally found themselves drawn to the Houston food scene. Here's a couple to check out.
Christina Autry, for one, focuses on international cuisine being offered in the city. Autry also shares many unique food experiences diners might not be aware of. And on behalf of those who love to keep up with new openings, Daniela Gulmar regularly visits the newly opened, local mom-and-pop spots.
From Boots to Grillz
Unlayering Houston Fashion
WRITTEN BY MEGAN BIASIOLLI
Houston is often linked to food, sports, culture and hot weather. However, a very underrated aspect of Houston is its fashion landscape, representative of the city’s diverse population
Whether it’s luxury shopping in The Galleria or the River Oaks District or browsing in stylish boutiques and thrift stores in Montrose, Houston’s authentic fashion scene has it all.
Houston’s fashion lore is laid-back Texan style infused with European, Asian and Latino accents. Recently, this has manifested in the forms of streetwear and Southern-inspired styles with unconventional twists.
The streetwear pieces include comfortable oversized tees, sneakers and hoodies, with nods to the city’s heritage such as vintage Astros hats and Astrodome graphic tees.
On the Southern style side, boots remain a fashion staple in Houston, representing the city’s roots and heritage.
Traditional cowboy boots, however, have recently been modernized with bold colors and designs, shifting away from the classic western look.
ART BY LARSHA FLOWERS
Beyond the cowboy aesthetic, however, Houston’s jewelry scene is one of the most notable niches within the city’s fashion landscape.
Prominent among athletes, celebrities and local Houstonians, the bling-bling culture is more than just fashion; it is a lifestyle, especially when it comes down to the grillz.
Houston’s very own Johnny Dang, known as the King of Bling, is known for his custom jewelry and grillz, which has made him an international household name. People from all over the world come to Houston for Dang’s custommade jewelry.
Dang founded Johnny Dang & Co. in 1998. Following his partnership with rapper Paul Wall, he became increasingly popular in the hip hop industry and with other celebrity clientele. Today, celebrities including Snoop Dogg, Post Malone, Quavo, Austin Rivers and Travis Scott, another Houston native, frequently request Dang’s custom grillz.
Dang, recognized for putting a glamorous twist on the iconic grillz, has also been featured in music videos such as Nelly’s “Grillz.” Instead of creating the traditional goldplated grillz, Dang created diamond-plated grillz.
Bling in Houston does not stop at Dang, though. Houston has a strong luxury fashion presence and a thriving high-end market. The go-to luxury fashion areas are The Galleria and River Oaks District. The mall features high-end brands including Burberry, Christian Dior, Ferragamo and Louis Vuitton, while the shopping district highlights brands such as Cartier, Hermes and Tom Ford.
This has resulted in Houston becoming a luxury fashion destination like Los Angeles, New York and Miami. The city’s luxury fashion sector encourages economic growth through increased sales, tourism and real estate development.
As much as Houston fashion is perceived as a luxury space nationally, thrifting culture in the city has seen a wave of popularity in recent years.
Since the pandemic, there has been an economic and cultural shift. The cost of living has increased, and people have been more conscientious of global warming and the environment.
This shift has resulted in a change of shopping habits. Houstonians now seek clothes that are sustainable and cost less, and thrift stores have been able to target this new desire.
This shift aids in the redirection away from fast fashion and towards sustainable fashion, reducing carbon footprints, waste and environmental pollution.
Fictional TV character and fashion icon Blair Waldorf once said, “Fashion is the most powerful art form there is. Its movement, design and architecture all in one. It shows the world who we are and what we’d like to be.”
In other words, fashion is more than the clothes we wear; it connects people and tells a story, and Houston’s fashion landscape does exactly that.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that being stylish means spending a lot.
Spoiler: It doesn’t.
Here are some helpful styling habits to keep you fashionable in Houston this fall season.
Being organized is essential in creating a stress-free closet.
Tip: Organizing your closet can be as simple as removing things that you do not wear anymore or making sure all the pieces in your closet are ready to wear.
Any clothing or shoes that are torn, missing buttons, etcetera or need ironing should be separated and fixed.
T he 3 Outfits Rule:
Whenever shopping for a new piece, consider if you can use it in 3 different outfits. If you cannot, it might be a sign that it is not needed.
Houston Fashion
It is better to buy something you can add to your closet instead of buying a problem piece that needs to be paired with additional pieces to form an outfit. In doing so, it will save you money and closet space.
Stop waiting for the right time.
So many times, people keep beautiful pieces of clothing in their closet, saving them for the right occasion to wear. By the time the “right occasion” comes around, they are usually no longer wearable.
So, do not be afraid to show off your wardrobe! Dress up when running errands or having lunch with friends.
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What It’s Really Like Living in One of America’s Most Diverse Cities
REFLECTION BY JOSHUA VASQUEZ | COVER ART BY ANASTASIA RIVERA
Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States and home to more than two million people. With that comes a rich blend of cultures, cuisines and celebrations that make this city unlike any other.
I was born and raised in Houston, lucky enough to grow up surrounded by its diversity. But for most of my life, I never really stopped to think about what it meant to live in such a multicultural city. Diversity was simply part of my everyday life, so natural that I didn’t give it much thought. That changed when I started writing this article.
Houston’s food scene alone is a testament to its cultural depth. Any cuisine you can think of, you’ll find it here. From Chinatown in Bellaire to Indian and Arab restaurants along Hillcroft and Mexican taquerias on nearly every street, Houston’s flavors are as diverse as its people. We do it better than anyone else, and we know it. But food is just the beginning.
Cultural festivals light up the city year-round, whether it’s the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Hispanic Heritage Month, French Bastille Day or Lunar New Year celebrations. No matter where you’re from, you’ll find a piece of home here.
One of my earliest memories of Houston’s cultural spirit was when my family took me to a Lunar New Year celebration. I must have been around seven. I remember standing in awe as a dragon dancer wove through the crowd, its bright colors bringing the celebration to life before my eyes.
That same cultural richness is alive at the University of Houston. The university isn’t just a reflection of the city’s diversity; it’s where that diversity comes alive in personal, interactive and unforgettable ways.
Student organizations play a big role in celebrating and preserving cultural heritage. These organizations create spaces where students can embrace their roots and share their traditions with the wider campus community. They also host cultural nights, performances and events that invite everyone to learn, celebrate and connect.
Black culture also has a deep and powerful presence in Houston and at UH.
The city’s Third Ward neighborhood, which borders the university, is a historic center of Black culture, activism and artistry. From the legendary music of Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion to the vibrant murals and Black-owned businesses that line the streets, the influence of Black Houstonians is everywhere.
Personally, I live diversity every day.
My closest group of friends includes people from Guatemala and El Salvador (me), Mexico, Lebanon, Vietnam, Morocco and the United States. Conversations about culture, food and traditions happen naturally because that’s simply who we are, a group shaped by different backgrounds, but connected through shared experiences.
At UH and in Houston, diversity isn’t a buzzword. It’s an everyday reality that shapes the campus and community experience, making it one of the most dynamic and culturally rich places to be in the country.
But Do You Know The City and Team You Rep?
Like the blast of Rockets, reminiscent of Cougars’ roars, or like the thrill of astronauts low enough in Earth’s Orbit to gaze at Orion, this is the kind of cheer and energy Houston Texans bring when they Dash into any stadium stands.
Houston sports play an integral role in both campus culture and the broader community.
Whether it’s the city’s professional teams or the Cougars right on campus, life in Houston allows for the immersion in a vibrant sports scene that is as diverse as the city it is in.
So, it is important to get familiar with the various teams in the city.
WRITTEN BY Camryn Alberigo
PHOTOS BY Raphael Fernandez
Houston Astros
Formerly the Houston Colt .45s
Debut season: 1965
Stadium: Daikin Park
Mascot: Orbit
Since moving to the American League in 2013, the Astros have become a powerhouse.
They have made seven consecutive American League Championship Series appearances from 2017 to 2023 and capturing two World Series titles in 2017 and 2022.
The team formerly played in the Astrodome, the first domed stadium nicknamed the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
Although no longer in use, it remains a historic Houston landmark and gave rise to the term “AstroTurf” for artificial grass.
The Astros’ Triple-A affiliate, Sugar Land Space Cowboys, play just outside of Houston. The team’s mascot Orion is Orbit’s cosmic cousin.
Fun Fact: Both teams light up the city sky with fireworks displays after Friday night home games.
Houston Rockets
Formerly San Diego Rockets
Debut season: 1967-68
Arena: Toyota Center Mascot: Clutch the Bear
The Rockets recently welcomed 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant, who is set to make his Houston debut when the NBA season begins this October.
The team’s last championships came in 1994 and 1995, led by former Houston Cougars and Phi Slama Jama members Hakeem Olajuwon, who starred in both
titles, and Clyde Drexler, who joined for the 1995 championship run.
The Rockets moved to Houston in 1971 from San Diego, with their name perfectly reflecting the city’s deep ties to NASA.
This season, the team is bringing back its “Dunkstronaut” City Edition uniforms, last worn during the 2023-24 season.
These feature a dunking astronaut, paying homage both to the high-flying legacy of Phi Slama Jama and Houston’s long-standing relationship with space exploration.
Houston Texans
Debut season: 2002
Arena: NRG Stadium
Mascot: Toro the Bull
The Texans, the NFL’s youngest franchise, brought professional football back to Houston after the Oilers relocated to
Tennessee in 1997. Now, a new era is taking shape in Houston.
Quarterback C.J. Stroud has quickly become the new face of Texans football since being drafted in 2023, leading the team to back-to-back AFC South division titles.
In the same draft, the team made history by selecting former University of Houston standout receiver Tank Dell, the first Cougar ever drafted by the organization.
Since joining the Texans, Dell has emerged as a symbol of resilience.
Despite suffering two season-ending injuries early in his career, he remains determined to return to the field and continue making an impact.
Houston Dynamo and Houston Dash
Debut seasons: 2006, 2014
Stadium: Shell Energy Stadium
Mascot: Diesel the Fox
The Dynamo exploded onto the scene, winning the MLS Cup during their first two seasons in the league in 2006 and 2007.
Today, the Dynamo and their NWSL counterpart, the Houston Dash, share branding and ownership, part of a growing movement in professional sports to unify
men’s and women’s programs under one organizational banner.
Overall, Houston’s professional sports landscape continues to grow, especially with the addition of the Houston SaberCats in 2017 and League One Volleyball Houston in 2023.
UH men’s basketball
Debut season: 1945-46
Arena: Fertitta Center
Mascot: Cougars Shasta & Sasha
The Cougars are coming off their first national championship appearance in 41 years and their first under Coach Kelvin Sampson.
Since taking over in 2014, Sampson has turned Houston into one of the winningest programs in college basketball. They’ve advanced to six consecutive Sweet 16s and consistently developed top-tier talent, most notably producing NBA players like Quentin Grimes, Jarace Walker,
Marcus Sasser and Jamal Shead.
UH football
Debut season: 1946
Stadium: TDECU Stadium
Mascot: Cougars Shasta & Sasha
In 1989, Andre Ware made history as the first Black quarterback to win the Heisman Trophy, putting the University of Houston on the national stage.
Two decades later, Case Keenum, who played from 2007 to 2011, finished his college career with the most passing yards and touchdowns in NCAA history.
Now, the Cougars are entering a new era with the arrival of quarterback Conner Weigman, a highly touted transfer from Texas A&M, who is set to lead Houston into its next chapter in the Big 12.
Fun Fact: Many of Houston’s professional sports teams provide student discounts for select games, giving UH students the perfect chance to engage with the city’s sports culture at a lower cost.
The University of Houston also fields 17 varsity sports teams, all offering free student admission, making it easy for students to cheer on their fellow Cougars.
THE SOUNDS OF HOUSTON'S MUSIC SCENE
Writtern by Raphael Fernandez
Landmarks tell us where we are and remind us where we are going. In Houston, the Be Someone graffiti is one of the most recognizable landmarks. It reminds onlookers to make something of themselves with the different opportunities the city has to offer. One of those many opportunities is music. From post-World War II blues to 21st century hip-hop, this city has been a hub for creation and community, as well as a celebration of talent both inside and outside of the Loop.
Two of the earliest regional styles to develop in the city were blues and jazz. Bill Quinn opened Quinn Recording, now known as Sugarhill Recording Studio, near the city’s Third Ward in 1941. It is one of the oldest studios in the nation still in operation to this day. Various blues artists recorded at the studio, most notable being Sam “Lightnin’” Hopkins who made at least 36 songs at the studio and paved the way for other artists to get recorded in the ‘40s and ‘50s. Since then, the studio has recorded music by Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, Willie Nelson and Beyoncé Knowles. As for blues’ continued existence, the original Bronze Peacock Dinner Club now stands as a popular music venue in downtown Houston. Other social spaces like The Big Easy still carry on the legacy of jazz lounges, hosting new artists of the genre.
The country and rock scenes formed around the same time in Houston, with artists such as Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers and ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons spreading their tunes throughout the city. Rogers was born here and developed his sound through several bands, from doo-wop to jazz and folk, before going solo and signing
up in Nashville. Nelson and Gibbons, though separate in the directions their guitars took them, both recorded and performed in Houston.
Country and rock still finds relevance to this day with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s yearly lineup featuring hard hitters like Luke Bryan and Journey. Beyoncé, one of Houston’s most iconic artists, has embraced the city’s country roots with tracks such as “Daddy Lessons” on her album “Lemonade” and many of the tracks on her recent album, “Cowboy Carter.”
Another key chapter in Houston’s music history is hip-hop. With beats and bars from Megan Thee Stallion, Travis Scott and Don Toliver featured on local stations such as KBXX-FM (97.9 The Box), Houston remains a hub for hip-hop. For those unfamiliar with Houston hip-hop’s past, there were years of buildup. Artists honed their crafts, created spaces for work and pioneered subgenres that led the city to its current status. Record labels Swishahouse and Rap-A-Lot Records were founded in Houston,
setting the stage for creation and distribution in the city.
DJ Screw was one of the forerunners in engineering with his signature “chopped and screwed” style. He would “chop” segments from tracks to emphasize phrases while also slowing down tracks to “screw” with their pace. DJ Screw’s methods added to the usual routine of sampling, revolutionizing music production in a big way. UGK was also working on their sound out in Port Arthur.
As artists Pimp C and Bun B built momentum, they influenced the city’s sound from 90 miles away with every album. Houston’s notoriety further bloomed in the 2000s with releases like Mike Jones’ “Still Tippin’” featuring artists Slim Thug and Paul Wall. This particular song is a highlight of UH’s gameday soundtrack. Through the rest of the early 2000s, several Houston acts have risen to prominence with their own style, and several more artists have been inspired by roots laid down in the ‘90s.
Hip-hop isn’t the only genre to take root in Houston. Latin music has also had a wide reach in and around the city.
With Texas and Mexico sharing both histories and borders, the two have links that exist to this day like Tex-Mex food and Tejano music. From the ‘50s to
the ‘70s, music halls like the Pan-America Ballroom would be a popular social space for the Hispanic community, and Artists such as Johnny Canales and Little Joe y la Familia helped spread Tejano to a wider audience.
Their work paved the way for Selena's explosion in the '90s with her stardom in San Antonio and three straight performances at the rodeo. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo continues to be a hotspot for tejano culture and performances with their “Go Tejano Day” events over the last 35 years. Besides Selena, standout artists have included Ramon Ayala, Jay Perez, Los Tigres Del Norte and recently Grupo Frontera.
There have also been Houston-based artists that have blended hispanic influences into other genres to create a whole new sound, like Los Skarnales and their unique take on ska.
Houston has also embraced many other genres through many venues and social spots dotted around the city. White Oak Music Hall, as well as Warehouse Live, have been home to many indie and alternative shows, while many DJs and electric artists can be seen at 713 Music Hall. Clubs such as Numbers, Barbarella and Bauhaus provide musical experiences that fuel the city’s nightlife.
Even UH hosts several acts during the annual Frontier Fiesta festival, bringing together local artists, student organizations and more popular artists to perform.
No matter the genre you blast on your commute, study break, tailgate or dorm party, this city has provided the groundwork for many genres to thrive. Houston is a melting pot of sound.
Bun B | Photographed by Raphael Fernandez, HLSR'25
