TEMPLE, TX — On Saturday, July 27, downtown Temple will be a hot spot for talented artists and musicians, but they all have one thing in common.
"I want to make big splashes when I make an event. I want people to walk away thinking I can't miss the next one or this is an event to watch out for," said JohnJohn Montelongo of Artist 2 Artist Showcase.
He's hosting the Music & Art Mash-up Empowerment on Saturday. After seeing a friend's social media post about the challenges for women creatives, he invited all-female lead bands and wanted to showcase women in the art industry.
"At the end of the day with the whole new area going on downtown, it's like they want this. New faces and eyes. This is the backbone of all that," said Montelongo.
Performers will include Waco native Elisa.
"Whenever I sing and perform I want people to feel color. Feel energy and forget about what's going on but just immerse themselves in what's in front of them," said Elisa.
She recently released the EP "You Think Too Much" at Spin Connection in Waco. She's spent years writing lyrics to the songs now included in the debut EP.
"Music is not meant to be listened to, it's meant to be felt. If you don't keep an open mind and an open heart when you're experiencing art, you might miss out on something," she said.
The doors open at Temple City Hall at 6 pm and the event ends at 11 pm. Tickets are $10 and those 12 and younger are free.
"In this area where it's starting to break ground and the art scene is getting bigger and bigger and bigger, it's important that we spend money on local artists. Everybody has their dreams and want to move forward with it," said Montelongo.
For more information on the event visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/2236545686425197/.
KXXV Reporter Maggie Lohmiller will be the emcee. Elisa also has 10 limited edition fundraiser vinyls of her debut EP that will help her keep making music. They will be available for purchase at the event or you can visit http://oneofakindrecords.com/ for more information.
"Texas Voices" features the artists, musicians and creatives in our great state.
