There are people who work in music… and then there are those who quietly build a life around it, letting it shape how they serve, give, and show up for others.
Peyton Prince is the latter.
A longtime supporter and Board Member of Texas Music Project, Peyton’s journey is rooted in decades of dedication not just to his career, but to community, creativity, and the belief that music has a deeper purpose.
From Service to Soundtrack
Peyton’s professional path reflects a consistent through-line: service, logistics, and making things happen behind the scenes.
After relocating to Austin in 1978 with his wife Cathy, he began his career with Guiltless Gourmet, helping pioneer one of the first baked corn chips while managing nationwide trade shows and customer operations.
He later joined REI during its early expansion into Austin, starting part-time and quickly rising into management in 1 1/2 years, helping shape both retail and operations during a formative time for the brand.
His career culminated with 15 years at Whole Foods Market, where he played a critical role in distribution and customer service ensuring that 17 stores across the Southwest region stayed stocked and running.
But behind every role… music was always there.
The Music Never Left
Alongside his professional career, Peyton has maintained a lifelong passion for music. In 2013, he released “The Peyton Prince Project,” a collaborative recording with Dallas-based musicians, including Michael Clay, a friend since college, who was also a co-writer and the main producer of the Peyton Prince Project along other graduates of North Texas University and members of the famed jazz group, (The One O’Clock Band).
The Peyton Prince Project is available on major streaming platforms. He continues his creative work through JustAlly Productions Inc.
Today, Peyton channels that passion into direct community impact through the Texas Music Project. As an active supporter of the Music Heals initiative, he contributes to efforts that bring instruments and music-based
experiences into hospital settings providing patients and families with opportunities for emotional expression, comfort, and connection.
“Music has always been a constant in my life. Being able to help bring that same experience to patients and families in hospitals is incredibly meaningful,” said Peyton.
Peyton will continue his involvement at an upcoming Student-Led Benefit Concert in Austin, where he is scheduled to speak and support student-driven fundraising efforts benefiting the Texas Music Project.
As part of the event, He will present a Taylor BT1- Spruce Acoustic Guitar with Gig Bag, Strap and Tuner for a special raffle, with all proceeds directly supporting the Music Heals program.
The initiative focuses on expanding access to instruments, music therapy resources, and creative programming in hospitals across Texas. The student-led event highlights TMP’s broader mission to empower the next generation of leaders through music while reinforcing the organization’s commitment to using music as a tool for healing and human connection.