Music News: 5th Annual HAAM Benefit Day Today!

In order to keep Austin the "Live Music Capital of the World", those hard-working musicians have to stay healthy. Last year, HAAM (Health Alliance for Austin Musicians) Benefit Day raised $164,000 for that purpose through donations from businesses and individuals. Today everyone has the chance to help surpass the 2009 amount with a text message - simply text 'Austin' to 85944 to give $10 towards supporting musician access to affordable health care. If you are a multi-tasker and prefer to eat, drink, or otherwise consume while donating instead, 5% of the profits from your purchases in a long list of local restaurants, shops, and clubs will be given as well. You can also go the traditional routes - donate online or by mail - and all contributions are tax-deductible.

Of course there are numerous free or almost-free shows all around town from 8am-2am to check out too! The full lineup is available here (note: it's a PDF download), with all genres represented, including Hollywood Gossip at ThunderCloud Subs, Reckless Kelly at Whole Foods Market, Fractals at Antone's Record Shop, Salesman at Emo's and a whole heck of a lot more. So get out there and support Austin's local musicians, venues and businesses today!