Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawn Messick.
Hi Shawn, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Attn: VOYAGER MAGAZINE
The Texas music scene, like many across the country, is a world of its own. Every city, town, and hidden corner of the state presents its own unique rhythm—its own set of challenges, venues, artists, and loyal music lovers. What they all share is a deep-rooted love for live music, found everywhere from dusty roadside bars and vibrant clubs to family restaurants, sprawling festivals, concert halls, and major arenas.
Across Texas, venues proudly promote themselves as the place where patrons can relax, unwind, and enjoy an evening of great music. Artists and bands chase opportunities to perform, shine, grow their audience, and—if fortune smiles—become famous. Yet for most musicians, performing is a passion balanced with everyday life. Many work full-time jobs while nurturing their craft at night, grateful for the chance to express themselves and earn a little in return.
Only a small number rise to the level where music alone pays the bills. Those who do grind relentlessly. They juggle multiple bands, projects, performances, and cities—sometimes even states. They host open mics, run karaoke shows, and take on any gig necessary to keep their musical dreams alive.
But one advantage can change everything: partnering with the right production company.
Few people understand this better than Rockwall musician Jeff Munson. A lifelong player—from garage bands in his youth to his current role as guitarist and leader of OFF THE GRID—Jeff has spent decades navigating every corner of the industry. After years of experience, he recognized a major need in the Dallas-Fort Worth market: a reliable, artist-focused production company.
Together with friend and partner Chuck Batten, he founded Black Hat Productions more than eleven years ago.
Black Hat Productions: The Backbone of the Texas Music Circuit
Black Hat Productions (BHP) has grown into a major force in Texas entertainment. The company handles every detail of a musical event—from the parking lot to backstage, from organizing large festivals to booking a solo performer perched on a barstool. Their network stretches statewide: Houston, El Paso, Austin, Texarkana, Galveston, and everywhere in between.
In DFW, BHP has become a vital connection point for artists, venues, and events. They understand that in today’s world, social media is the most powerful tool in the industry—crucial for branding, booking shows, building an audience, and keeping fans engaged.
BHP provides an entire suite of services:
• Booking gigs for artists and bands
• Connecting musicians with videographers and photographers
• Producing large festivals, fairs, and national-level concert events
• Offering band services and event management from start to finish
For many artists, BHP has become both a launchpad and a lifeline—a win-win for everyone involved.
Off the Grid: A Band Built on Talent and Timing
The success of Black Hat Productions created the perfect platform for Jeff to promote his own group, OFF THE GRID, founded in October 2023. The band began when Jeff met vocalist Laurie Langston, who had never performed live and had never sung publicly. After hearing her voice, Jeff knew he wanted to build a band around her natural talent.
The rest of the lineup quickly fell into place:
Laurie Langton- Vocals
• Stu Powley – Bass & Vocals
• Shawn Messick – Drums & Vocals
• Donnie Fant – Guitar
• Mark Wizgen Guitar & Vocals
Together, the five members developed a rare, organic chemistry that quickly set them apart in the Dallas music scene. While tribute bands have dominated recent years as the high-demand, high-pay acts, OFF THE GRID emerged as one of the area’s standout cover bands—a segment the industry deeply needs to keep balance in the entertainment ecosystem.
In just two years, OFF THE GRID—backed by the structure of Black Hat Productions—performed 26 shows across 13 venues, both indoors and outdoors. The band is already actively booking for 2026, collaborating with other groups, inspiring fellow musicians, and making a clear impact in an extremely competitive local market.
AmpWear: A New Look for the Stage
Jeff’s vision didn’t end with producing events or leading a band. One of his greatest successes is his partner Tracey Robinson, a devoted supporter who is front-and-center at every OFF THE GRID performance. Immersed in the music world through Jeff, Tracey found her own way to influence the local scene.
She launched AmpWear, a company specializing in custom amp covers designed to elevate a band’s stage presence. Her covers feature textures and patterns including paisley, cowhide, pink, turquoise, camo, and many others—replacing the boring factory-standard black. At the Dallas International Guitar Festival, her vibrant designs caught the attention of local musicians and bands, leading to growing interest and custom orders throughout the region.
A Unified Impact on Dallas Music
Together, Black Hat Productions, OFF THE GRID, and AmpWear form a powerful trifecta—each serving musicians, venues, and fans in a different but complementary way. They’ve shaped and strengthened the Dallas music scene, proving that success in this industry doesn’t belong to just one person or one company, but to all who collaborate with passion and purpose.
Working alongside like-minded artists, creators, and entrepreneurs, they keep the music going—helping the scene grow, thrive, and, above all, heal.
Kindest Regards,
Shawn Messick
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It been hard! Covid, venues closing, cancellations.
What matters most to you?
A professional show that blow the audience away. creating an unforgettable experience!!!!!
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