TITLE: In memory of Kent Finlay.

SUMMARY: In memory of Kent Finlay.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins citizens across the state in mourning the loss of Kent Finlay, who died March 2, 2015, at the age of 77; and WHEREAS, A legendary and beloved Texas songwriter and musical mentor, Kent Finlay helped spark the careers of famed musicians across multiple genres, and he is well known for bringing the essence of Texas honky-tonk to the world; and WHEREAS, In October of 1974, he opened the renowned Cheatham Street Warehouse, a rustic music venue in San Marcos, and for more than 40 years, countless Texas greats such as Stevie Ray Vaughan and Eric Johnson honed their talents on the Cheatham stage; and WHEREAS, Mr. Finlay is perhaps best known for hosting George Strait's first stage performance with the Ace in the Hole Band in 1975 and for driving the then unknown country music icon to Nashville to record his first demo tapes; and WHEREAS, Kent Finlay's own musical narratives, including "They Call It the Hill Country," showcase his unique talent at song crafting, which he readily shared with the songwriters he consistently championed; he also cowrote a number of album tracks with several of the talented musicians he helped promote; and WHEREAS, Kent Finlay was a proud father and grandfather, and he was known for his warmhearted and generous nature; he will be fondly remembered by loved ones and fans across the state and nation; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Kent Finlay; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Kent Finlay. Zaffirini President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 23, 2015, by a rising vote.