Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Dallas Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• H-E-B development coming to Allen.

• Georgia tops AP Preseason Poll again.

• A deep dive into the life of Blind Willie Johnson.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all."

-Oscar Wilde

Sponsored

Get The Coverage You Need, Without Breaking the Bank.  Savvy Insurance Delivers Average Savings of $1,500/year.

Auto and home insurance premiums are rising, but you don't have to pay more. Savvy's easy-to-use platform and expert agents help you find the right coverage at the best price. Compare dozens of insurers and save up to $1,500/year!

Trivia

Which Dallas university is the largest in terms of enrollment?

A) Southern Methodist University

B) University of Dallas

C) University of Texas at Dallas

D) Dallas Baptist University

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The popular district in Dallas known for nightlife, restaurants, and shopping is B) Deep Ellum.

News

💼Business

H-E-B-anchored mixed-use development coming to Allen. (link)

Dallas firm among those meeting with NFL to discuss PE investments in teams, report says. (link)

🏒Sports

Georgia sits atop AP Preseason Poll for second straight year. (link)

Stetson Bennett's TD in final seconds lifts Rams past Cowboys. (link)

🏦Finance

Exxon Mobil laying off employees at former Pioneer Natural Resources HQ. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚾ Texas Rangers vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
Globe Life Field, Arlington, TX
Monday, Aug 19th | 7:05 PM | (More info)

⚾ Cleburne Railroaders vs. Kane County Cougars
La Moderna Field, Cleburne, TX
Tuesday, Aug 20th | 7:05 PM | (More info)

Music

🎤 Ski Mask The Slump God - 11th Dimension Tour
House of Blues Dallas , Dallas, TX
Monday, Aug 19th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎵 Victony - The Stubborn Tour
The Cambridge Room at House Of Blues, Dallas, TX
Monday, Aug 19th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

Family

🎭 Hugapalooza Concert
2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX
Saturday, August 24th | 9:00 AM | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Dallas with a public space dedicated to virtual reality experiences.” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Dallas Historical Events

1845: Annexation of Texas and impact on Dallas.

In 1845, the annexation of Texas into the United States marked a significant turning point not only for the state but also for Dallas, a fledgling community poised on the brink of transformation. Prior to annexation, Texas had been an independent republic since 1836, following its secession from Mexico. The decision to join the United States as the 28th state set the stage for rapid economic development and population growth throughout Texas, fueled by increased security and the promise of prosperity under American governance. For Dallas, which had been officially founded just a few years earlier in 1841, annexation meant greater access to federal resources, an influx of settlers, and the integration into a larger market economy, factors that would catalyze its evolution from a remote frontier town to a bustling center of trade and commerce.

The annexation of Texas was met with enthusiasm in Dallas and the surrounding region, as it removed the uncertainties of life on the frontier and opened up new opportunities for agriculture, ranching, and business. The promise of stability and support from the federal government encouraged investment and infrastructure development, laying the groundwork for future growth. Dallas's strategic location along several key trade routes further amplified its significance, attracting merchants, entrepreneurs, and new residents eager to capitalize on the expanding economic landscape. This period also saw the beginning of Dallas's role as a regional hub for the distribution of goods, a role that would expand significantly in the years to come.

The impact of Texas's annexation on Dallas was profound, setting in motion a series of changes that would shape the city's identity and trajectory. As Dallas grew, it became a microcosm of the larger forces at play in Texas, reflecting the state's diverse cultural heritage, its struggles and triumphs, and its relentless pursuit of growth and innovation. The annexation not only contributed to the physical expansion of Dallas but also to the forging of a resilient and dynamic community, laying the foundations for its future as a major American metropolis. The events of 1845 are remembered as a pivotal chapter in Dallas's history, one that encapsulates the spirit of opportunity and the challenges of change that have defined the city ever since.

Famous People From Dallas

Blind Willie Johnson (1897–1945): Gospel blues singer and guitarist.

Early Life in Texas (1897–1912)

Blind Willie Johnson was born in Pendleton, Texas, into a family of sharecroppers. Tragically, he lost his sight as a young child, which led him to focus on his other senses and talents, particularly music. Johnson turned to the guitar, which would become his voice, expressing his deep spirituality and unique perspective on life.

Developing a Unique Sound (1913–1926)

In his teenage years and early adulthood, Johnson honed his musical skills, blending gospel hymns with the raw emotion of the blues. He played on street corners and at religious gatherings, developing a distinct slide guitar technique and a powerful, gravelly singing voice that captivated listeners.

The Columbia Records Sessions (1927–1930)

Johnson's profound musical abilities were recognized in 1927 when he was invited to record for Columbia Records. These sessions produced some of the most influential gospel blues recordings of all time, including "Dark Was the Night, Cold Was the Ground" and "Mother's Children Have a Hard Time," showcasing his unparalleled slide guitar work and soul-stirring vocals.

Influence and the Spread of His Music (1931–1940)

Despite the Great Depression, Johnson's music found a wide audience, influencing both contemporary musicians and future generations. His recordings were not just songs but sermons, delivering messages of hope, redemption, and warning through the medium of blues.

Challenges and Persistence (1941–1945)

The latter part of Johnson's life was marked by personal hardships and the declining popularity of his music style. However, he continued to perform, preaching and playing on the streets of Texas cities, undeterred by changing musical trends or his personal struggles.

Legacy and Posthumous Recognition

After his death in 1945, Johnson's music lived on, inspiring countless artists across genres, from rock to folk to blues. His recordings have been included in the Library of Congress's National Recording Registry, recognized for their cultural, historical, and aesthetic importance.

Connection to Marlin, Texas, and Its Impact

Marlin, Texas, played a significant role in Johnson's life and music. It was here that he performed regularly, honing his craft and spreading his spiritual messages. Marlin's community, with its rich musical culture, provided a backdrop for Johnson's development as a musician and preacher, influencing his thematic focus on salvation and redemption.

The Slide Guitar Technique

Johnson's innovative slide guitar technique, using a pocketknife or a bottleneck, became a hallmark of his style, influencing future generations of guitarists. His ability to convey complex emotions through his instrument solidified his place as a pioneer in gospel blues.

Spiritual and Musical Influence

Johnson's music transcended the boundaries of blues and gospel, offering a profound spiritual message that resonated with audiences beyond the church. His work has been covered by numerous artists, evidencing his lasting influence on American music.

Key Achievements:

• Pioneered a unique blend of gospel and blues music.

• Recorded seminal works that have influenced countless musicians.

• His music was included in the Library of Congress's National Recording Registry.

• Developed a distinctive slide guitar technique that has inspired guitarists across genres.

Summary

Blind Willie Johnson's life was a testament to the enduring power of music to convey deep spiritual and emotional truths. Despite personal hardships and blindness, he crafted a musical legacy that has transcended time and genre, influencing musicians worldwide. His connection to Marlin, Texas, and his innovative slide guitar technique left an indelible mark on the gospel blues genre, ensuring his place as one of the most influential American musicians of the 20th century.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Poll