Behind the Curtains: ACL 2024 

Joaquin Lewis

Music Journalist

Austin City Limits has been a key part of Austin’s identity as the “Live Music Capital of the World” since it began in 2002, featuring headlining acts such as Wilco, Gary Clark Jr., and the ever-present Asleep at the Wheel. Bringing in a crowd of 42,000—which was well above the expected 25,000—ACL has since grown to attract approximately 450,000 attendees over both weekends, with its growing reputation reaching beyond Texas. In 2023 alone, ACL contributed an estimated $499.9 million to the local economy, making it a permanent fixture of the city, according to the Austin American-Statesman.  

I’ve had the chance to attend Austin City Limits on and off since I was 12, with my first experience being performances by Eminem and Skrillex. Fast forward to 2024, and thanks to the KTSW 89.9 team, I was lucky enough to receive a Media Wristband for the festival’s second weekend. After the initial shock and excitement of getting that confirmation email from C3 Presents, I couldn’t wait for October 11th to arrive, with artists like Chappell Roan, Chris Stapleton, Kenny Beats, and Khruangbin in view.  

 Entering through the platinum entrance, I navigated through the crowd gathered for Foster The People and made my way to the magical press lounge. For years, I had watched people who seemed lucky enough to slip behind the Miller Lite stage and into the press area, but this year it was my turn. Wearing a smile I couldn’t hide, security waved me in as I made my way behind the stage area. 

Anyone who’s been to any kind of music festival knows how chaotic the free water stations can get, with crowds forming as people rush for free refills. So, when I found a hydration station in the press lounge with no line at all, it was fair to say that I was amazed. It felt like a hidden gem of the typical festival experience. As I wandered further, passing tents from KUTX 98.9, Austin American-Statesman, and Mix 94.7, I heard my name called from a cozy seating area set aside for media interviews with the artists. 

It was my fellow KTSW 89.9 team members who had also scored those magical media wristbands. We sat together, taking in the surreal experience, talking about the artists we were excited to see, and sipping on free electrolyte-infused water in the shade. With free food being prepped for the upcoming happy hour, we could hear the opening sounds of Royal Otis starting their Friday set. In that moment, decisions had to be made—I quickly darted out of the press lounge, determined to get as close to the front of the Royal Otis stage as possible, forgoing any free food or drinks. 

Austin City Limits is a key part of Austin’s identity, bringing world-class artists to their stage year-over-year. Having only the privilege to attend the festival with General Admissions wristbands, a chance to experience the offerings provided with a media wristband was beyond special. What felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me was just a regular day for others, but it gave me a completely new perspective on the festival. 

Austin City Limits is a key part of Austin’s identity, bringing world-class artists to its stages year after year. Having only ever attended with general admission wristbands, experiencing the perks that came with a media wristband felt beyond special. What seemed like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me was just another day for others, but it gave me a completely new perspective on the festival.