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Harmonizing for a Cause: The Heart of Austin's Music Scene
The spirit of Austin is often embodied in its vibrant music scene, where a blend of beats and community action come together to support local causes. On November 8, 2025, the 'Been There 4' music festival promises to deliver just that—a stellar lineup and a critical funding goal aimed at assisting Austin's unhoused residents. With headliners like Mix Master Mike of the legendary Beastie Boys and indie rocker Ben Kweller, this event hopes not just to entertain, but to catalyze meaningful action for those in need.
Inspiring Change Through Music
Founded by Aaron Brown and Lenny Barszap, Been There operates under the motto of achieving social change through creative avenues. The annual festival serves as a “Trojan horse”—drawing people in with music to inspire them to engage with the pressing issue of homelessness in Austin. Their mission is further illuminated through their feature film, Home Free, which chronicles the experiences of the unhoused in Austin and draws on the founders’ personal college memories. The film's success helped raise awareness about this critical issue and fostered a deeper connection between audiences and the realities faced by their unhoused neighbors.
Who's Taking the Stage?
This year’s festival will include a diverse lineup that aims to stir both nostalgia and excitement among attendees. Joining Mix Master Mike and Ben Kweller are an array of artists, such as:
- Grandmaster: Bringing funk with a twist from outer space
- DeadEye: A tribute band for Grateful Dead fans
- Panic Stricken: A Widespread Panic tribute that promises a lively performance
- TC Superstar: Renowned for their engaging choreography and upbeat tunes
- Benji Hughes: An indie rock gem known for his soulful voice
- Ruby Jane: A bluegrass artist who captivates audiences with her violin
Additional artists are expected to be announced, fostering excitement leading up to the event and setting a hopeful tone for the fundraising goal.
Setting Ambitious Goals and Making a Difference
Organizers have set an ambitious fundraising target of $1 million for this year's event, building on the success of previous festivals, which have collectively raised over $3 million. The funds will be allocated not only to Been There but also to three partner organizations devoted to tackling homelessness in innovative ways:
- Sunrise Navigation Center: Provides essential meals and housing resources.
- The Other Ones Foundation (TOOF): Focuses on transitional housing and workforce development.
- Caritas of Austin: Aims for holistic solutions addressing all facets of homelessness.
Such collaboration underscores the festival’s mission to strengthen community ties and combat homelessness through robust support systems.
A Community that Cares
The upcoming Been There 4 festival is not just an event; it's a movement that resonates deeply within the Austin community. By blending entertainment with philanthropy, the festival reflects the unique character of Austin, where creativity and compassion often go hand in hand. Attendees can expect not only a night of great music but an opportunity to engage deeply with the pressing social issues affecting their community.
Join the Movement!
This year, attending Been There 4 is about more than just enjoying live music. It's an invitation to become part of something significant—for the community spirit, for your neighbors, and for the collective future of Austin. Grab your tickets and join fellow Austinites on November 8 to celebrate and support our unhoused community in a heartwarming celebration of music and philanthropy.
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