At a Glance
- Hi, How Are You Day returns to Paramount Theatre with music and mental-wellness focus.
- Star-filled lineup features Nathaniel Rateliff and Lamont Landers.
- Additional concerts on Jan. 22 at The Ballroom and Jan. 23 at Continental Club.
- Why it matters: The event promotes mental health conversations through music, honoring Daniel Johnston’s legacy.
Austin’s Hi, How Are You Day is back, turning the Paramount Theatre into a hub for music, conversation, and mental-wellness awareness. The event celebrates the late musician Daniel Johnston while inviting attendees to ask the simple yet powerful question, “Hi, how are you?”
Event Highlights
Organized by the Hi, How Are You Project, the day encourages conversations about mental wellbeing and showcases Johnston’s art. Co-founder Tom Gimbel said the message is simple but powerful.
Tom Gimbel said:
> “Have a ‘Hi, how are you?’ conversation.
> Go second level – ask, ‘How are you really?'”
- Encourages open dialogue about mental health.
- Celebrates Johnston’s life and art.
- Uses music as a therapeutic tool.
Lineup & Schedule
The main concert at the Paramount Theatre on Jan. 23 features acclaimed singer-songwriter Nathaniel Rateliff and rising artist Lamont Landers. Additional shows will take place on Jan. 22 at The Ballroom and later at the Continental Club.
| Date | Venue | Performers |
|---|---|---|
| Jan. 22 | The Ballroom | Caroline Hale, Which is Exist |
| Jan. 23 | Paramount Theatre | Nathaniel Rateliff, Lamont Landers |
| Jan. 23 (late night) | Continental Club | Lamont Landers & band, opening by Donovan Keith |
- Caroline Hale and Which is Exist perform at The Ballroom.
- Nathaniel Rateliff & Lamont Landers headline Paramount.
- Lamont Landers & Donovan Keith headline Continental Club.
Daniel Johnston’s Legacy
Daniel Johnston, who passed away in 2019, pioneered lo-fi alternative music and inspired artists such as Kurt Cobain, David Bowie, and the Flaming Lips. His iconic “Hi, How Are You” mural remains a beloved Austin landmark.
Tom Gimbel said:
> “Daniel always wanted to be famous. To know his name is out there in such a positive way, associated with mental wellbeing, is a wonderful legacy.”
Why Music Matters
The Hi, How Are You Project provides mental wellness training to hundreds of thousands of students nationwide. Tom Gimbel emphasized that music plays a key role in the project’s mission.
Tom Gimbel said:
> “Eighty-two percent of young people say they turn to music when they’re struggling. Music is uplifting. It affects our emotions and moods.”
Key Takeaways
- Austin’s Hi, How Are You Day blends music, conversation, and mental-wellness advocacy.
- The event honors Daniel Johnston and his influence on artists worldwide.
- A star-filled lineup across three venues brings the message to a wide audience.
With a blend of heartfelt music, community dialogue, and a tribute to Daniel Johnston, Austin’s Hi, How Are You Day offers a unique platform for mental-wellness awareness.
