The video above takes you on a full tour of the city of Garland, Texas, from the historic downtown square to the legendary Audio Dallas Recording Studio. Located about 20 miles east of Dallas with a population of around 240,000, Garland is one of the largest cities in Dallas County. It's a heavily residential community with older homes, mature trees, and plenty of parks — a classic Texas suburb with real roots going back to the late 1800s. You might also recognize the area as the inspiration, along with neighboring Richardson, for the setting of the sitcom King of the Hill. The video walks through the Town Square revitalization, local restaurants, and the recording studio where some of country music's most iconic albums were laid down.
Exploring Downtown Garland and the Historic Town Square
Garland's old downtown area centers around a Town Square that's currently undergoing renovation and revitalization. Walking around, you'll find a music store, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and a few spots that host live music. The square has the feel of a small-town center being brought back to life, with local businesses filling in the storefronts. For Tex-Mex, the video highlights Dos Banderas, which also features live music. Garland has a long history as a manufacturing and industrial hub — it's actually home to Resistol cowboy hats — and that blue-collar heritage gives the downtown area a no-frills, authentic character. Lake Ray Hubbard is also close by for anyone looking to get out on the water.
Where Can You Find Live Music in Garland, Texas?
If you're looking for live music around Garland's downtown square and surrounding area, there are several spots worth checking out. Here's what the video highlights:
- Dos Banderas — A Tex-Mex restaurant on the downtown square that features live music alongside its food and drinks
- Intrinsic Smokehouse — A barbecue joint right on the square known for hosting live music acts regularly
- The Tavern on the Square — A bar and gathering spot on the historic square that also books live music
- Lakewood Brewing Company — Located a bit outside the downtown area near Audio Dallas, this brewery hosts live music events in a casual, beer-friendly setting
Audio Dallas Recording Studio and Its Place in Texas Music History
The real centerpiece of this video is Audio Dallas Recording Studio, a historic facility in Garland that has played a major role in Texas music. This is the studio where Willie Nelson recorded his landmark Red Headed Stranger album. Over the years, artists like Kris Kristofferson, Jack Ingram, and Miranda Lambert have also recorded here. The video gives a look inside the studio as the creator works on tracks for an upcoming album, including rough versions of original songs. Audio Dallas is a genuine piece of Texas recording history that's still active and producing music today, making it one of the most significant studios in the DFW area.