Charley Crockett’s highly anticipated documentary, “$10 Cowboy,” premieres tonight at the Austin Film Festival, spotlighting the Texas-born singer-songwriter’s remarkable journey in the music industry. Known for his deep-rooted connections to his heritage, Crockett has been a vocal advocate for the Gulf of Mexico’s name—defending it after an executive order by former President Trump sought to rebrand it as the “Gulf of America.” He passionately stated on social media, “I was born on the Gulf of Mexico. I don’t recognize it by any other name,” emphasizing the importance of the Mexican American community in Texas.
Crockett’s busy year has included the completion of “The Crooner & The Cowboy Tour” in collaboration with Leon Bridges, following the release of his first album on Island Records, “Lonesome Drifter,” in March. He has since released another album, “Dollar A Day,” along with a single featuring the legendary band Bad Company.
The documentary, directed by Patrick Heaphy and produced by LCM247, runs for 75 minutes and documents a week-long tour across significant Texas venues, including the Longhorn Ballroom in Dallas and the Broken Spoke in Austin. Combining performance footage with interviews and archival material, it chronicles Crockett’s rise from his early days in San Benito to becoming a prominent figure in country music.
The film not only captures the struggles and triumphs of Crockett’s life but also delves into his deep connection with Texas. Born in the same Rio Grande Valley town as music legend Freddy Fender, he embodies a blend of traditional country and modern soul, echoing the heartfelt storytelling of icons like Willie Nelson.
In “$10 Cowboy,” Crockett comes into his own, illustrating his dedication to music as a source of freedom and self-expression rather than as a commercial endeavor. His journey resonates with themes of resilience, identity, and purpose, making this documentary a significant part of his artistic narrative that could inspire audiences and solidify his homage in Texas music history.