Rio Market

By John Melendez

Reporting Texas

Mingling within the aisles of Friendly Rio Market are rows of imported snacks, basic toiletries and everyday groceries essential to the residents of UT Austin’s West Campus. 

However, in the center aisle, a rarer commodity can be found: local bands and artists performing live music for all ages, free of charge. 

Since 2022, Rio Market has hosted live music shows every Friday and Saturday night. The patrons of this community-centered convenience store, doubling as a DIY venue, walk in looking for late-night energy drinks or six packs of beer. In addition, they find one of the few places in Austin, Texas, still carrying the torch for what it means to be the Live Music Capital of the World. 

With no performance barriers for artists, co-owner Makul “Moo” Seth intentionally fosters a space for community and connection, making this locale a beloved landmark of the UT Austin landscape and underground music scene.