Local singer, songwriter to open music store in historic downtown Mineral Wells

Indie recording artist Stan Crawford to launch grand opening June 20 with Guitar Hero contest.

When Palo Pinto County native and indie recording artist Stan Crawford first picked up his guitar as a teenager, he would have given just about anything for a little help. Now, years later, the self-taught singer, songwriter is ready to ensure his hometown’s up and coming talent is not left wanting for a little musical mentoring.

“There’s a number of reasons I wanted to open a music store here,” Crawford said. “It is something for the area kids to do, something for them to get into and continue with. For me it’s all about the music, it always has been, and this is a way for me give back to a community, an area, that has given so much to me as an artist.”

Crawford who released his debut album, aptly titled "Crazy Water," in 2008, has been hard at work revitalizing an antique storefront in historic downtown Mineral Wells. Readying the property to house the soon-to-be Mineral Wells Music has been a labor of love and one that Crawford, along with his family, has tackled head-on.

“It has been a lot of work,” Crawford said. “But in the end I know it will all be worth it. Mineral Wells is primed for a place like this. A place where people can go to sing, play, learn and express themselves through what I believe is one of the most honest forms of communication - music.”

Indeed, others agree with Crawford’s synopsis of music in Mineral Wells.

“A music store is long overdue in our area,” said Ninfa Holly, assistant director of the Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce. “There is an overwhelming level of talent here that would benefit from a venue like this. It would be great for the community as a whole.”

Crawford plans to make Mineral Wells Music a one-stop shop for budding musicians. Currently, guitar and vocal lessons are being offered. Eventually, Crawford said he would like to house a wide variety of musical instructors as well as some merchandise.

Mineral Wells Music is slated to open its doors Saturday, June 20. Opening day festivities begin at noon with an all ages Guitar Hero Contest. For more information about Stan Crawford, Mineral Wells Music, as well as more information about the contest and opening day celebrations, visit www.stancrawford.com or call (940) 859-1640.

Crawford’s innovative musical stylings merge the best of Texas Country with the nostalgic flare of Americana. His strong vocals and smooth guitar acoustics have garnered this Mineral Wells native high acclaim throughout the Indie music scene.

Playing venues such as the legendary Woody’s Tavern in Fort Worth, the Texas Motor Speedway and headlining numerous big name music festivals have created a well-deserved buzz about Crawford and his crew.

Most recently, Crawford took his tune to the masses via an appearance on Fox 4 Good Day and an installment of his debut album, "Crazy Water," on iTunes.

Crawford, 31, is currently working on his second album and has plans to return to the studio later this year.

For more information about Stan Crawford, visit www.stancrawford.com.