How to Play SXSW Without Even Trying…Or Actually Going There

The SXSW festival is considered a music mecca for a reason. This is because 5-10 years ago, it was still a hub for independent-everything. It was conceived and designed by Those-In-The-Know, and for Those-In-The-Know. Now, like most authentically great and grimy things in the world, it has become a happening closer to Disney’s Magic Kingdom than a music and culture festival. It’s like the difference between going to New York City to hang out in the dive bars of Brooklyn and the Lower East Side, or staying in Times Square and riding the Trump elevator up and down all day. This is how Justin Bieber ends up playing private parties at the once 'underground' festival and why more and more musicians are coming back disappointed and writing scathing editorial review to Pitchfork. Ironic since many would argue that Pitchfork is largely responsible for making 'DIY' a brand, rather than a philosophy.

The #1 benefit (and for some, the only benefit) of playing SXSW is ‘cred’ and perceived prestige. But you don’t necessarily need to spend the money getting there or waste the energy and time zipping around town to play ten minutes sets without the opportunity to sound check. The alternative? Shortly before the festival begins, get on social media and spin a web of lies equally as vague and convoluted as the festival itself and no one will be the wiser.

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