By Wittliff archivist Hannah Martin.
The newest collection available online features photographs of musicians from the rock and punk scenes in the San Antonio and Austin areas. Donated by Clyde Kimsey, this collection spans the years 1978–1982 and includes backstage shots, headshots, and live performance photos. Many of these images appeared in the indie music newspaper It’s Only Rock ‘N’ Roll, to which Kimsey often contributed articles and photographs. The magazine, created by Ron Young, featured music news, reviews, and interviews with both touring and local groups.
What makes this digital collection unique is how it captures now-famous artists early in their careers, such as Debbie Harry, The Ramones, and Blue Öyster Cult. It also includes photos taken inside historic San Antonio venues like Skip Willy’s, Randy’s Rodeo, and the Floore’s Country Store in Helotes, Texas. Other big-name artists featured in the collection include The Go-Go’s, Sting, Iggy Pop, and Judas Priest. The collection also highlights key local musicians active in the San Antonio/Austin scene, such as Doug Sahm, Augie Meyers, Roky Erickson and The Explosives, Marcia Ball, and The Krayolas. Check out the digital collection to explore images of rock ’n’ roll legends performing throughout Texas.