To kick off 2018 in the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Lyft is announcing the Austin Musician Rideshare Program, which provides local musicians with free rides to and from their gigs.

Lyft is partnering with local Austin music venues like Empire Control Room, Antone’s, and Stubb’s to help foster an environment in which musicians and the entire local Austin music industry can flourish.

Ryan Garrett, GM of Stubb’s, describes the benefits of the program: “Lyft’s Musician Rideshare Program is a tremendous asset for local musicians. Stubb’s is thrilled to partner with Lyft on this progressive program which will positively impact the lives of local musicians and the entire Austin music scene.”

Stephen Sternschein, owner of Empire Control Room, explains a problem he sees the program solving for Austin musicians: “It’s expensive and difficult to park downtown, even harder for a working musician lugging gear. Parking tickets, towing, and accidents can (and do) eat up every dollar a local musician just made on stage. We ought to do everything we can to fix this.”

This first-of-its-kind program launches during the Red River District’s Free Week, which celebrates local Austin bands with free shows at different venues from January 1 to January 7.

How You Can Help

Use code ATXMUSIC for $5 off your first 3 rides with Lyft and we’ll add $5 to the Musician Rideshare Program fund — just in time for a ride to Free Week 2018!