Ever since the first vibration of a chord, or echo of a voice, music has told the story of humankind against the elements. Hundreds of songs have reflected the sentiments on a rainy day, and one of Stevie Ray Vaughan most beloved classics is “Texas Flood.” Today marks the 27th anniversary of the innovative and raw blues guitarist’s death, and the great musician himself could never imagine the scope of devastation that Hurricane Harvey is literally spouting from the Gulf and down from the skies in Houston and other communities in its wake. It will definitely take weeks, months, and even years of recovery to regain what this storm has taken, and much more than songs.

Nonetheless, many talented artists are taking time out to let those affected know that they are not alone.

Before the worst

Many Houston residents likely bunked down in their boarded-up homes and thought they had dodged the worst of the disaster last night. Tragically, the night only brought more torrents of rain, with some areas already around 30 inches, and as much as 15 more expected today. Several artists scheduled to perform canceled shows. Coldplay insisted that “we can't ask anyone to put their safety at risk,” in a social media statement, explaining that the band’s performance would be postponed.

Country trio, Lady Antebellum, canceled a Sunday concert at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, Mary J Blige gave some sweet news with her postponement, already announcing the rescheduled date of September 19.

Thoughts of September are even hard to fathom now, as some 6,000,000+ people simply try to cope with three more days of downpour, and then, the slow recovery of homes, schools, and work places that are now under water with literal white-cap waves as of this morning.

A show of heart from hit makers

Musical marvel and wordsmith, Lin-Manuel Miranda, had his heart a long way from Broadway in his words of hope to the region.

On Twitter, the “Hamilton” composer reminded, “we are thinking about you, we love you and we're here for you. Be safe”

Cher, who is in the process of having her life story performed as a Broadway musical, had more loving thoughts to send down south.

The superstar gave recollection of her residency in Galveston and Burleson, is also the home of Kelly Clarkson. The “Believe” singer used big letters to emphasize her heartfelt words, saying that she had “toured for 50 years” in the Lone Star State. She also recalled her Dallas stay while shooting “Silkwood,” which became not only an acclaimed biography film with co-star, Meryl Streep but a confidence-builder for Cher to branch out into movies.

Miranda Lambert simply asked “Pray for Texas” in her message, and like Carrie Underwood, the singer-songwriter shares a huge heart for animal advocacy, and millions of pets are displaced and devastated due to Hurricane Harvey, with no words to express their heartbreak.

Many local Houston heroes have been carrying cages with beloved cargo above the water.

Sheryl Crow, who has spent much of her personal and professional life in Texas, also offered a sincere comfort with “you are in my prayers,” addressed to the state.

No people on the planet have greater talent or platform than musicians for making a difference. There are certain to be benefit shows and many more public appeals made by more creative luminaries. For now, basic needs of safety, shelter, and sustenance must come first. Anyone wanting to donate can contact the American Red Cross and designate “Hurricane Harvey,” or text HARVEY.
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