America’s Got Talent Finalist Steve Ray Ladson to Headline “Blackgrass @ The Victory Grill”
Wednesday, September 16, 2026 | 6:30 – 11:30 PM
The Historic Victory Grill
1101 E. 11th Street Austin, TX 78702
Capitol View Arts presents nationally recognized artist Steve Ray Ladson in a special headline performance at the historic Victory Grill in East Austin on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Ladson, a finalist on America’s Got Talent, has drawn national attention for a sound he describes as “Blackgrass Brothercana” — a distinctive blend rooted in country, bluegrass, Americana, soul and Black musical tradition. His Austin appearance comes during a period of growing national visibility and ahead of his upcoming performance at the State Fair of Texas. For Capitol View Arts, bringing Ladson to the Victory Grill represents more than another concert date.
The Victory Grill is one of Austin’s most important surviving landmarks of the historic Chitlin’ Circuit and has welcomed generations of influential Black performers, including artists such as B.B. King and Tina Turner. Ladson’s appearance places a contemporary artist expanding the language of Black roots and country music on a stage deeply connected to that history.
“There is something especially meaningful about bringing an artist like Steve Ray Ladson to the Victory Grill at this moment in his career,” said Clifford Gillard, Director of Capitol View Arts. “His music honors tradition without being confined by it, and that feels completely at home on this stage. We see September 16 as an opportunity to create something that feels both timely and uniquely Austin.”
The evening will also feature supporting performances by Shai Gabriel and Jordan Orionn, highlighting additional voices from Austin’s music community.
Bringing Artistic Expression To Communities In Austin
Austin has a rich culture of music and art that has made it a flagship for enthusiast from around the world. We look to not only preserve that culture but also expand it to disenfranchised artists and communities
Proud Partnerships
Capitol View Arts could not have the success that we’ve experienced without the help, support and collaboration of some of our proud partners.
Capitol View Arts Captured & Shared
Getting involved as an Artist or wanting to be part of something great
We encourage artists and those who want to assist our organization to reach out and express your interest. There are various opportunities to further your craft and build on your artist profession. From our online marketplace, to helping artists understand local grants; our services expand to meet the needs of our local artists where they are in their individual progressions.
Capitol View Arts : About Our Name
If you open the side door of Austin’s Historic Victory Grill, you’ll see a perfect, beautiful view of the Texas Capitol. We have often wondered how many performers and patrons of the Victory Grill throughout the years have gazed at this spectacular site and had thoughts of equality, freedom, and change.
We thought the representation of this Capitol view was befitting to an organization whose mission is not only to improve the lives of artists and residents on the east side, but also to offer the Austin community a chance to preserve past history and experience new and exciting transformations as our city continues to grow.
STREET EXHIBITION:
Black Austin Matters| Black Artists Matter
