Tue, Mar 17

A reflection of the industrial grime and perpetual sunny glow of Los Angeles, Casket Cassette (Constant Williams) blends euphoria and melancholy in an expression of existential perseverance. Casket Cassette's depressingly danceable music takes a contemporary spin on the dark sounds of the 1980s Post-Punk and Darkwave movements, drawing further influence from New Wave, EBM, Synthpop and Indie/ Alternative to achieve this duality.

The music of Endearments has always turned a mirror on the inner self, reflecting life’s deeply personal, often painful moments in the light of clarity and new resolve. Principal songwriter Kevin Marksson and his bandmates, guitarist Anjali Nair and drummer Will Haywood Smith, craft emotionally dense and instrumentally lush pop songs, viewed through the lens of contemporary, dreamy indie rock and embedded with a John Hughes-ian romanticism.

Born in Texas and raised in Northern California, Marley Hale’s musical influences followed: Texas’s deep, country and western swing roots met San Francisco’s folk and rock legends. The result: classic country tropes, turned on their heads through a switching of roles or a repossessed identity; delicate, revelatory explorations of what it means to be a friend, lover, or neither; and second person addresses to herself that offer both an onlooker’s and her own perspective. After California, Hale spent time in Austin, TX and Portland, OR before relocating to Brooklyn, NY, where she recorded her debut EP, By My Own Ways, released July 2024, and began touring the US and Canada. After spending the better part of three years on the road, she moved back home to Austin, where she now resides.

The Red Eye Gamblers are a psychedelic southern rock band with a uniquely Austin, Texas sound. They bridge elements of rock, bluegrass, and jammy psychedelia to create a new experience with every show.

Torture and the Desert Spiders is a NYC-based indie post-punk project based on the songwriting of NY-native Anna Kunz. The project, previously based in the north of England, has performed well over 400 shows since its inception, including a currently running 46+ week headline residency in NYC as well as shows for the BBC at the Cavern Club (Liverpool), at Webster Hall (NYC), for the British Arts Council with Mattiel (Hull), at Kendal Calling Festival (2022, 2023), and sold out shows at the Supersonic Club (Paris), The Windmill Brixton (London), and Night and Day (Manchester, UK).The project has recently released two singles mixed by Alex Poeppel (Telescreens). Torture and the Desert Spiders next NYC show will be supporting Cab Ellis at the Bowery Ballroom on January 9th.

Come Back Down, the new album by Nashville experimental-pop duo Total Wife, was born from the edge of sleep. When composer and producer Luna Kupper would begin to fall asleep during late-night mixing sessions, the songs would follow her into the halfway place between dream and lucidity. Like Dale Cooper in Twin Peaks, she’d wake with a new perspective on the puzzle she was piecing together. “I’m a psychological mixer — I’m trying to think of how someone’s experiencing the sound, versus getting stuck in trying to make all these different tones and using all this gear to make something sound a certain way,” Kupper says.

Originally inspired by a Slowdive KEXP session, London-based quartet Whitelands fuse their diverse musical backgrounds into an updated spin on shoegaze that amplifies marginalized voices and perspectives. Formed in the late 2010s as the solo project of Etienne Quartey-Papafio, Whitelands evolved into a full band ahead of their official debut album, Night-Bound Eyes Are Blind to the Day (2024), released during a U.K. tour with Slowdive. The project takes its name from a campus at London’s Roehampton University, where Quartey-Papafio first performed live. Their self-titled 2018 debut, a lo-fi blend of jagged indie rock and hazy grunge textures, hinted at the immersive sound they would later embrace. A turning point came when Quartey-Papafio stumbled upon Slowdive’s 2017 KEXP performance, igniting a deeper fixation on shoegaze. The current lineup consists of Jagun Meseorisa, Vanessa Govinden, and Michael Adelaja who bonded through shared experiences of neurodivergence and racial identity. Whitelands’ forthcoming album, Sunlight Echoes (out January 30, 2026), expands their sound, moving beyond shoegaze’s shadows toward something bigger, brighter, and unmistakably their own.

Kety Fusco is electro-acoustic harpist, composer, and producer who has redefined the harp for the contemporary stage. Armed with her 47-microphone electro-acoustic harp, distortion pedals, and electronics, she transforms the instrument into a visceral voice that screams, whispers, and resonates far beyond classical tradition. Her debut album The Harp was selected by Iggy Pop as “best album” on BBC Radio 6, and in 2025 she will release BOHÈME (A Tree in a Field Records), featuring a collaboration with Iggy Pop. Fusco has toured extensively across Europe and Latin America, performing at prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, Montreux Jazz Festival, and Mexico’s CENART, and as a Swiss cultural ambassador at the Euro Jazz Festival (Mexico City) and South America tour for Swiss Embassies. In 2025, she has also been invited by the U.S. Department of State to participate in the prestigious International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), recognizing her as an ambassador of Swiss music and cultural innovation. Her work bridges classical training and radical experimentation, from reimagining Beethoven’s “Für Elise” as a furious electronic cry to composing soundtracks for film and RAI Radio3. With over 200 live shows in three years, Kety Fusco is carving an unprecedented path for the harp in electronic music.

Detroit rapper NASAAN stands proudly in the legacy of his late father, Big Proof, the founding frontman of D12 — but he’s honoring that legacy by writing his own unique story. A true multi-hyphenate, Nasaan produces and raps with the sharp lyricism and presence you’d expect, while also directing and editing his own wildly inventive visuals. He has collaborations with rap heavyweights like Big Sean, Lil Yachty, and Royce da 5'9", as well as newer voices like Sada Baby, Babytron, Babyfxce E, That Mexican OT, and more. He has toured with BabyTron, JID, Smino, and Danny Brown, delivered multiple viral freestyle performances with Lyrical Lemonade, On The Radar, and From The Block, appeared on platforms hosted by Ebro Darden and Joe Budden, and secured major sync placements with Madden, Fortnite, and ESPN. NASAAN is one of music's most dynamic rising creatives.

The Gringos are an indie rock band building a real-world scene.Born from house shows, late-night living room sessions, and college basements, their sound blends raw indie rock energy with melodic songwriting and a loose, lived-in Southern warmth. Their music feels like something you stumbled into — loud enough to feel alive, honest enough to feel personal.

Radium Dolls are one of Australia’s most exciting rising rock bands, known for explosive live shows, razor-sharp lyricism, and a sound that balances grit, heart, and swagger in equal measure. Formed in Brisbane the four-piece have built a fiercely independent momentum, with their debut album "Legal Speed" (2024) earning national airplay, critical acclaim, and a Queensland Album of the Year nomination. Their sophomore album "Wound Up" debuted at #2 on the ARIA Australian Albums Chart, marking a major breakthrough and driving another fully sold-out national tour. The band have achieved major streaming and editorial success with singles including “Scorching Heat”, “Golden Boy", "Moving" and "Daddy", while their breakout track “Tractor Parts” has recently surpassed one million streams. The band has even caught the attention of music tastemaker Derrick Gee who named Radium Dolls his “favourite band of the moment”. With their debut American tour ahead and SXSW appearances, Radium Dolls are poised to introduce North America to the next era of Australian rock.

Nigerian-born, London-based singer, songwriter, musician, and producer Steven Bamidele is known for his distinctive reverb-drenched falsetto, synth textures, and syncopated beats. Citing the influences of contemporary creators Frank Ocean, Tyler the Creator, Solange and Childish Gambino, he puts social commentary and artistic narratives at the forefront of his music.

TTSSFU – aka Tasmin Nicole Stephens – quickly went from being a mere fixture in Manchester’s indie scene to one of its fastest-rising stars, now poised to break out well beyond it. Known for conjuring vast, atmospheric worlds from her bedroom using just Garageband, she watched as early releases like her Warhol-inspired 2024 EP “Me, Jed and Andy” picked up steam. Since then, she’s traded bedrooms for stages supporting Kim Deal, English Teacher, Soccer Mommy and Mannequin Pussy, plus sold out headlines across the UK and packed festival sets from Green Man to the Great Escape.

Kingston, Jamaica's Armanii is one of the hottest up-and-coming artists in the Caribbean right now thanks to tracks like “Dunce Barbie”, “Fiesta”, “8:00 PM” ft. Malie Donn, and “JUMP (BOUNCE)”. In a genre that is flooded with stick talk and basic lyrics, Armanii stands out from the pack with a unique blend of soulful ballads and Dancehall party bangers as well as bringing an unmistakably Jamaican feel to other global genres. Hot off the heels of "8:00 PM", Armanii appeared on AriAtHome’s stream and racked up over 40M views across Instagram, TikTok and Youtube Shorts. This propelled tracks like "JUMP (BOUNCE)" and "LINK UP" w/ Cjthechemist which collectively amassed nearly 20M streams across all platforms. This led to elevated support from DSPs with features on major playlists like Spotify's Best of Frequency 2025, Dancehall Official and Fever--which he covered twice--as well as Apple Music's New Fire. These accolades earned the young talent a win at the 2025 Caribbean Music Awards for the Dancehall Impact Award. With an authentic sound and growing international appeal, Armanii is steadily carving out a powerful presence in the global music scene.

Bruiser Wolf is a prominent member of Danny Brown's Bruiser Brigade collective, known for his eccentric and distinctive style of rap. Following his career as a college and arena football player, he burst onto the scene in 2021 with clever lyrics and conversational flow. Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, the critically acclaimed rapper has dropped three standout albums since his breakthrough debut, Dope Game Stupid, in 2021.

LA alternative indie rock quartet Fime released their debut LP “Sweeter Memory” in 2022. Working with producer Melina Duterte from Jay Som, they infused their garage rock sound with shoegaze, ethereal and gauzy vocals and distorted, reverb laden guitar melodies. Fime is set to release there second album “Just Can’t Win” in September 2025.

Describing J’cuuzi as a band is at the very least inaccurate, or worse: incorrect. While they deliver electrifying, borderline acrobatic live performances of high octane, glitchy songs that modulate between serrated post punk guitar and pulsing electro beats, there is a shocking theatricality to them that the word “band” lacks the range to capture. The members wear handmade couture, with bulbous anime-esque proportions and insectile features sewn into drag silhouettes. They often perform while stacked on top of each other, or hoisted over each other’s heads. Their stage is set like a cheap studio apartment: a spinning blue egg chair and a stack of guitar amps sit on either side of a bedazzled ironing board, from which a spinning disco ball hangs. Since their inception in February 2024, J’cuuzi’s ferocity has earned them opening slots for acts like Viagra Boys, Stereolab, Tune-Yards, Shannon and the Clams, Upchuck, Snooper, and Warmduscher. Whether you call them a band, a performance art troupe, or a fashion house; J’cuuzi has set a pace of expansion and experimentation that proves theirs is an act worth watching.

Taking their name from the word for “heart” in the Afro-Cuban religion of Santería, the duo OKAN creates an alchemy of Cuban rhythms and chants with high-octane indie jazz and pop. Singing in Spanish, Yoruba, and Spanglish, OKAN explores resistance, rebirth, and joy — forging rhythm and harmony through acts of survival, both personal and cultural.

Adult DVD, the Leeds based six piece have become known for their relentless output of euphoric hooks and grooves along with a relentless touring schedule that has taken them to Glastonbury, Greenman, End Of The Road and several European festivals this Summer.Formed by vocalist Harry Hanson and synth-player Greg Lonsdale, the project quickly expanded to a full band with Danny Blackburn (guitar/synth), Jake Williams (synth), Jonathan Newell (drums), and George Manson (bass). From the outset, their tongue-in-cheek lyrics, pulsating electronics, big choruses and unique production style (their releases are all self-produced) set them apart from the indie-rock landscape. Few songs capture the chaotic fun of Adult DVD more than their first release ‘Bill Murray’ - now a firm fan favourite and sing along moment at every festival set. First ‘proper’ single ‘Do Something’ from their 'Next Day Shipping' EP earned a spot on the BBC 6 Music B-list and support from BBC Radio 1, BBC Introducing and Radio X. Subsequent single ‘Because I Like It’ also landed onto the 6 Music B-list, and accompanying live performance from the BBC’s 6 Music festival.Adult DVD’s live shows are fast becoming legendary. From sold-out hometown headline gigs at Brudenell Social Club and Belgrave Music Hall (2 in the round shows in one day) to storming sets at The Great Escape, Deer Shed Festival, and Live at Leeds, their performances are high-energy and unmissable.Whether tapping into their love for chorus-centric indie or the influence of acid house floor fillers, DJing, or remixing their musical contemporaries their core appeal remains consistent: undeniable humour, bold danceable instrumentals and instantly memorable songwriting."

BIO DAIISTAR is an Alt-Indie band formed in Austin, Texas in the spring of 2020. The band takes their inspiration from the neo-psychedelic era of the 80s and 90s (The Jesus and Mary Chain, Spacemen 3, Primal Scream) and pulls it into the future with modulating synthesizers, heavy guitars, bouncing bass lines, and spiraling hooks, creating a narcotic blend of noise and melody. DAIISTAR recorded their first studio album produced by Alex Maas of The Black Angels and engineered by James Petralli of White Denim in the summer of 2021. The band signed to UK based label Fuzz Club Records with their debut album GOOD TIME released on September 8th 2023. The album is available on vinyl including a Levitation Exclusive Edition pressing, as well as CD and digital. DAIISTAR has performed at ACL, SXSW, Levitation Austin, Levitation France, Austin Psych Fest, Barcelona Psych Fest, KEXP, KUTX and has toured with The Black Angels, The Brian Jonestown Massacre, and The Dandy Warhols.

Glassio is the Dream-Pop–tinged Indie-Dance project of Irish-Iranian songwriter and producer Sam R. Blending melodic sweetness with brooding dance beats, his self-described “melancholy disco” sound has earned over 25 million streams and global acclaim. Since emerging with the viral 2016 EP Poptimism (whose single “Try Much Harder” hit No. 9 on Spotify’s Global Viral Chart), Glassio has toured internationally with acts like Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Nada Surf, and Electric Youth, and released two acclaimed LPs—For the Very Last Time (2020, Downtown Music) and See You Shine (2022)—with songs featured on Netflix and HBO. Raised between the Middle East and California and later based in New York and London, Sam draws influence from New Wave, 60s chamber pop, and early-2000s electronica, channeling it into rich, cinematic pop. His upcoming third album, The Imposter (2026), written during his move from New York to London, fuses shoegaze, folk, and dream pop in a neo-noir exploration of self-confrontation and creative rebirth. “I wanted this album to make people ask if they’re living the life they’re meant to,” he says. “For me, this is about rediscovering who I am as an artist.

Luna Luna is the solo project of Colombian-American artist Kavvi, known for crafting a vibrant sound that blends his Spanish and English roots into one. Mixing nostalgic, feel-good synth-pop with a modern indie edge, Luna Luna has become a standout name in the alt-pop and Latin indie scenes.What started as a personal creative outlet has grown into a project that's earned serious recognition — including nods from Rolling Stone as one of “10 Latin Acts to Break Big” and from Variety as one of “8 Latin Indie Artists to Watch.” Luna Luna’s music has been featured by Billboard, PEOPLE, NPR, Paper, FLOOD, Earmilk, REMEZCLA, and more, while also landing on major Spotify playlists like New Music Friday, Lorem, and Mixto.Known for dreamy live shows and an acclaimed Audiotree session, Luna Luna has built a devoted fanbase and a strong online presence, generating millions of views with over a quarter million followers across platforms. Brand collaborations with Jack Daniel's, Topo Chico, and Taco Bell highlight the project’s growing cultural impact — all while staying true to the emotional core that makes the music resonate so deeply.

With musical notes that span well beyond genres like bolero, psychedelic, and cumbia, The Animeros not only make their audience hit the dance floor, but they also invite their listeners and tastemakers alike to a glimpse of their rich cultural upbringing.

Aaron Perrino refuses to be beat. The Boston music scene veteran, who helms The Sheila Divine, has spent decades confounding expectations with songs that deftly weave power-punching political criticism amongst mundane daily frustrations. Songs that expose purest grief alongside deepest love.

CQ Wrestling are a British grunge band led by best friends and songwriters Charlie Woods and Jake Mac, delivering a fierce yet melodic 90s-inspired sound. Their lyrics tackle social and political unrest while offering moments of euphoric escape, and their chaotic, high-energy shows have built a devoted following through three sold-out UK tours, Glastonbury 2025, and European festival appearances.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Entrepreneurship, MedTech, Storytelling.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Business Development, Content Strategy/Production, Entrepreneurship.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Product Management/Development, Future of Work.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in MedTech, Future of Work, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Fintech, Product Management/Development.

When disaster strikes, there’s no time for creative review. Just hours after violence, fires, hurricanes, war, or other crises strike, frontline groups like World Central Kitchen and Watch Duty hit the ground to save lives, and their marketing and comms teams begin rallying attention and mobilizing donations to make it all possible. In this session, WCK’s Linda Roth, Chief Communications and Strategy Officer, and Liz Caselli-Mechael, Chief Communications Officer at Watch Duty, join Swayable CEO James Slezak to reveal how some of the world’s most important campaigns are using AI and cutting-edge measurement technology to develop authentic, purpose-driven content that works—quickly.

What does it feel like to be told — subtly or explicitly — that a product isn’t meant for you? From voice assistants that ignore accents, to websites that don’t account for disability, exclusionary design sends a powerful message: you don’t belong here/this product isn't for you. In this session, we’ll explore how design decisions shape belonging, dignity, and trust—and what happens when that’s broken. Drawing from real user stories, this talk will spark a conversation on what it takes to move beyond surface-level inclusion.

Practitioners from industry (Google), academia (Columbia-SIPA) and civil society (Access Now) will show how cybersecurity impacts human rights. Drawing on research with vulnerable and marginalized communities, including human rights defenders, independent journalists, and the elderly, they will show how people in diverse circumstances attempt to navigate digital spaces safely and freely with few resources. They will offer lessons and debate best practices and norms in cyber capacity-building, corporate human rights due diligence, and technology-informed advocacy from an intersectional lens.

Managing today feels like a trap: too much to do, too little trust, and no time to build relationships that make teams thrive. This provocative session draws on decades of experience with Fortune 50 executives and over 12,000 pages of interview data to reveal two surprising truths: pressure—not power—corrupts, and power creates distance. Left unchecked, both warp your best intentions. But when managed well, they can drive clarity, connection, and trust. You’ll leave with practical tools to rethink your role, reset your relationships, and lead with more impact.

An extension of our popular Mentor Sessions, our Round Table Sessions not only allow attendees to learn from the industry experts that sit at each of the three tables in this session but they also allow attendees to learn from the questions and experiences of their peers as well. This Round Table Session will bring together industry experts and SXSW attendees for an enlightening discussion on Agents & Managers.

A great cast can help level up a low-budget indie film. But many filmmakers assume they can't afford to hire SAG-AFTRA actors. While going through the SAG-AFTRA signatory process may seem intimidating, SAGindie makes it easier by educating independent producers about the ins and outs of hiring professional actors for low-budget films. This workshop highlights the details of the various contracts SAG-AFTRA offers to low-budget films, demystifies the process of working with the union, and offers best practices for indie producers.

Trust is under pressure across industries, but in the humanitarian sector it has become existential. As public skepticism around waste, corruption, and opaque systems grows, support for aid can disappear fast—as seen in 2025 with sweeping cuts to U.S. foreign assistance driven by accountability concerns.

What if the reality we experience is only part of the picture?Across philosophy, mysticism, physics, and psychology, a recurring idea emerges: the world we agree upon may be a shared interface — a consensus layer — rather than the totality of what exists. From ancient cosmologies to contemporary speculation about simulated universes, the question persists: is everyday reality the whole story, or just the surface? Consciousness researcher and podcaster Jordan Crowder, computer scientist and author Rizwan Virk, and anomalous phenomena researcher Darren King explore whether reality is layered, participatory, and far stranger than it appears. Moderated by SpectreVision Radio Director Daniel Noah.

Check out the SXSW Bookstore to browse the latest work authored by this year’s conference participants. Support your favorite speakers and find something you connect with to take back home. Open daily on the 6th floor of the Hilton Austin Downtown.

Our digital world risks leaving groups behind. This panel issues a call-to-arms for truly inclusive design in physical spaces, where technology amplifies human potential. With 20% of the world's population identifying as neurodistinct in some way, we'll unveil a blueprint for environments that care for all human needs. Explore how Google and Hypersolid are developing adaptable guidelines to unlock unique cognitive strengths - fostering engagement, productivity, and belonging. Join a revolution of the human mind where every mind shines.

Every day, more of us interact with AI, prompting deeper questions about how these products are built. This workshop will allow participants to understand the intricacies of LLM training, providing a deeper grasp of how these models truly function. More critically, we'll dive into the essential strategies for mitigating risks and building safeguards into generative AI products. Participants will engage in activities to understand AI red teaming, using golden sets to calibrate AI responses to sensitive prompts, and discuss the potential and limits of various approaches.

In the race to innovate, trust is often the missing link. As AI, data, and digital health tools transform how we diagnose, treat, and connect, the real question is: who’s shaping these innovations—and who’s being left out? This conversation brings together health leaders and community innovators to explore how centering patients and culture in design and data use builds not only better products, but stronger relationships. The takeaway: technology can’t build trust, but people can.

AI is reshaping every industry—but will America remain the world’s innovation engine? As visa rules tighten and geopolitical suspicion grows, top AI talent is being diverted elsewhere. This panel explores how U.S. immigration, research, and tech policy decisions are influencing the global AI race. Drawing on history and current data, we’ll ask: Can the U.S. still attract the world’s best minds—or will they build the future somewhere else?

Small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) account for 99.9% of U.S. businesses and nearly half of GDP, yet their cybersecurity capabilities lag dangerously behind. Nation-state actors and cybercriminals now target SMBs and the managed service providers (MSPs) that support them because one breach can cascade across thousands of businesses, posing a serious risk to national security and economic stability. As AI supercharges social engineering and ransomware at scale, this overlooked attack surface has become one of the most urgent vulnerabilities in America.

A whirlwind tour of hand drawn, stop-motion, and digital revelries.

Set in the not so distant future when poor air quality leads to people living mostly virtually lives. Carol is a dissatisfied career mother, struggling to find connection within her marriage to Gary and her child. With the day to day familiarity of their home and lives feeling increasingly claustrophobic, and worried she could be heading towards divorce, Carol leaps at the chance to get her life back on track by signing up for "DreamQuil", an avant-garde digital wellness retreat. When Carol returns home however, she discovers her family has been living with "Carol 2", a robot the corporation sent designed to help in her absence, and things take a mysterious and sinister turn.

Follow Wilson as she redefines the modern country star, proving that staying true to yourself can lead to major success. The film explores her personal journey, struggles, and triumphs as she captivates fans on stages across the country.

"Do You Love Me" is a playful and personal journey through Lebanon’s audiovisual memory, composed entirely of archival footage. It is a love letter to Beirut, spanning 70 years of film, TV, home videos, and photography, exploring the Lebanese collective psyche - marked by joy and intimacy, destruction and loss. Through the eyes of citizens, filmmakers and artists, the film reconstructs a fragmented history in a country without a national archive, celebrating creative expression as both resistance, renewal and a way to preserve memory.

Matt Carmichael will be signing copies of “Meeting My Heroes” at the SXSW Bookstore.

When Washington state became the first in the world to legalize human composting, entrepreneur Micah Truman puts it all on the line to build the world's first large-scale terramation facility. But when the conventional deathcare industry resists, he is forced to pivot, and must learn to care for the grieving while transforming his business. Alongside Funeral Directors, Brie Smith and Katey Houston, he begins to understand the double bottom line is the only way to truly profit. What begins as an ambitious venture becomes personal as they rediscover human connection, ritual, and legacy.

Every day, invisible systems shape your decisions, desires, attention, and identity, often without your awareness. This session uncovers 10 hidden truths about how algorithms, AI models, and digital platforms subtly reprogram human behavior. Through real-world examples and sharp analysis, this talk explores how technology influences us psychologically and culturally, and what we can do to remain conscious, critical, and truly in control.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Screenwriting, Narrative Filmmakers, Agents & Managers, Development.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Agents & Managers, Development, "Sales, Acquisitions, & Distribution".

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Acting, Agents & Managers, Development.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Storytelling, Marketing/Advertising/PR.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Agents & Managers, Screenwriting, International.

The average person sees 10,000+ ads daily but remembers almost none. Advertising has an attention crisis and AI is both the cause and the cure. This panel brings together technologists and brand strategists who are rebuilding the advertising stack from first principles: replacing passive impressions with interactive, AI-native content that earn genuine human engagement. We'll unpack what "attention" actually means in an era of generative content, why the next ad format won't look like a video, and what brands must do now before the attention window closes entirely.

Headlines warn that AI is hurting DEIB—propagating bias, reinforcing stereotypes, and risking the erasure of marginalized groups and their histories. Yet the same technology has the potential to uncover bias, scale representation, and raise the bar for inclusion at the brand, industry, academic, and societal levels.

The AI revolution has changed how we work, play, and more. It is also driving a major shift in the backend infrastructure that powers these developments.

Today’s most iconic venues are more than just architectural marvels; they’re immersive, tech-powered environments designed to bring people together. Join leaders in architecture and brand experience to explore how large-scale stadiums and next-gen immersive destinations are crafted to amplify emotion, ignite human connection, and become part of the stories unfolding within them. These venues go beyond just aesthetics to create shared experiences that resonate long after the moment.

Whether you’re an experienced bird watcher or just appreciate the beauty and magic of birds, all are welcome to join us at the Bird Lovers Meet Up at SXSW! Really, who doesn't love birds?!?! Hosted by journalist and Birds & Nerds podcast host Ramona Schindelheim and National Audubon Society vice president Glynnis Breen.

In an industry historically shaped by hierarchy and fear-based leadership, a new generation of executives is proving that true influence comes from empowerment, inclusion, and collective accountability. This high-level panel brings together senior leaders from across the music industry to explore how shifting from “I” to “we,” is not only transforming workplace culture - it’s building stronger creative output. Through real stories, we’ll examine how valuing every voice - whether front-facing or behind the scenes - is essential to creating the future of our industry.

It’s not news that we’re living in an era of transformation. But what is the role of design in shaping our future? And what is the responsibility of designers? The annual iF Design Trend Report seeks detailed answers. In this dynamic panel, three trailblazing design leaders come together to preview the international design institute’s top insights for 2026. Building on their decades of interdisciplinary expertise, panelists will explore intersectional topics such as autonomous vehicles, humanoid robots, emerging education, multisensory marketing, and much more. For those who love great design!

Isaac “Drift” Wright, a self-taught photographer and Army veteran haunted by trauma, finds healing through breathtaking, illegal climbs of the world’s tallest structures. But his pursuit of art sparks a high-stakes battle with law enforcement in this intimate portrait of risk, resilience, and freedom in modern America.

Timid dork Edie accidentally takes the spotlight when she starts a punk band with her fellow “turds”, becoming an icon to the rest of the losers at her all-girls Catholic school while managing to piss off the hot girls, the nuns, and the horniest altar boy you’ve ever seen.

Some stories never fade—they evolve. This session explores how iconic franchises like Tetris and Sonic continue to shape culture and spark creativity. Maya Rogers, President & CEO of Tetris, and Shuji Utsumi, President & COO of SEGA, share how legacy IP adapts to new generations and drives innovation. Moderated by Greg Off, a 20-year game industry veteran and CEO of creative agency Off Base, this panel dives into the enduring power—and future—of beloved entertainment worlds.

AI is the most transformative technology of our generation. This session explores the promise and perils of AI, sharing concrete examples of how AI is being applied with impact by businesses, creators and others to drive operational efficiency, enhance customer experiences, increase revenues and augment creativity. The audience will also learn about the risks associated with AI including some novel intellectual property issues (IP) posed, and how to weigh opportunities with risks. The insights shared are from a speaker who has built AI solutions and been at the top levels of technology, law, business and government and boardroom, all of which perspectives are critical to the successful AI applications.

Grace Young — James Beard Humanitarian of the Year — never planned on becoming an activist. But when the pandemic gutted America’s Chinatowns she went from cookbook author to the unexpected frontline advocate for America’s Chinatowns. In this talk, she unpacks how personal storytelling, chance encounters, and cultural memories fueled her pivot into activism. Her story challenges you to define your own purpose—and inspires you to show up, push boundaries and take action for the communities and causes you care about.

What sets modern humans apart from our cave-dwelling ancestors? The answer: genetic variations that may have hindered Neanderthals from advancing socially & technologically. That's according to Alysson Muotri, PhD, whose work creating brain organoids from stem cells — & studying them on Earth & in space — is shedding light on the factors that make present-day people unique — & especially susceptible to neurological conditions like Alzheimer's & autism. Plus: how the Dark Genome might shape personality, & why it all matters for the future of human aging, medicine, & the colonization of Mars.

As generative AI systems and AI agents increasingly model individuals, both living and dead, we find ourselves on the verge of a new kind of digital immortality. “Generative ghosts” are AI-based simulations that evoke or imitate human beings, created through personal data, online traces, or speculative design. But what are the social, ethical, and emotional consequences of engaging with these digital afterlives?

The internet has gone quiet, at full volume. Public feeds are louder than ever, but the most meaningful conversations - and the real signals of what people actually care about - are now happening in private spaces. According to GIPHY's research, 90 percent of people share major life updates in group chats before they post them publicly. More than half of Gen Z says their chat knows them better than their family. And every day, 50 percent more GIFs are sent than voice memos. This talk goes inside the shift from public to private sharing, and what it means for brands, creators, and communicators.

AI is reshaping how we build software products—from conversational UX to fast-evolving AI models that can upend product roadmaps and even entire products. In this session, a leading product exec and a Wharton AI expert share how to design products powered by large language models. You'll learn how AI is reshaping product roles, what it takes to build with ever-evolving models, and why great UX now means thinking in conversations, not clicks.

Bland is forgettable—and in today's content-saturated world, forgettable is fatal. This session explores how emotionally evocative, creatively risky campaigns like Life360’s “I Think of You Dying”—which tapped into the quiet fear every parent holds—confront the gap between what people truly feel and what brands are willing to say. Hear from creative leaders who are leaning into discomfort to reflect human truths and challenge taboos. The conversation will explore boundaries, backlash, and how pushing limits can drive impact when rooted in authenticity and deep audience understanding.

Join Cine Las Americas to celebrate local Latine/x voices in film and the vibrant creative community thriving in Austin. This is a chance to connect with international filmmakers and engage with a platform dedicated to amplifying Latine/x stories. Cine Las Americas, alongside organizations like Malakita Productions and filmmaker Alejandro Pedemonte, showcase how local talent shapes the global film landscape. Whether you're seeking collaboration, inspiration, or a pathway to share your vision, we invite you to connect and be a part of this vibrant growing community.

Following a failed engagement, Louisa "Lou" Klaussner, an aspiring author who pays the bills by writing social media copy for a tortilla chip company, falls into a side hustle writing wedding vows for other people. When Lou reconnects with her college best-friend and long-time crush Warren, she is shocked to find he is the fiancé of one of Lou's wedding vow clients… putting Lou in the middle of a complicated love-rectangle.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Storytelling, Marketing/Advertising/PR, Entrepreneurship, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Policy, Entrepreneurship, "Diversity, Equity & Inclusion".

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Marketing/PR, Women in Music, Media/Journalism.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Storytelling, Future of Work, Journalism.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Streaming & Programming, Education, Data.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Marketing/PR, Women in Music, Sync/Licensing.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in A&R, Women in Music, Sync/Licensing, Audio/Production (Recording/Mixing/Mastering).

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Accessibility, "Diversity, Equity & Inclusion", Storytelling.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Immersive Technology, MedTech, Product Management/Development.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Marketing/PR, Emerging Technologies, and Sync/Licensing.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in A&R, Live Events, Marketing/PR, Women in Music.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Blockchain & Cryptocurrency, Product Management/Development, Entrepreneurship.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Management, Health & Wellness.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Songwriting, Sync/Licensing, Women in Music.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Future of Work, Ethics, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning.

The teams behind John Summit, FKA Twigs, and The Beaches know every drop needs momentum to land. In this panel, Laylo CEO Alec Ellin sits down with Wasserman Music SVP of Marketing Sam Alpert and AWAL Director of Digital Marketing Shelby Rosenthal to explore how top artists drive fan attention ahead of on-sale day. From surprise superfan presales to Instagram teasers, merch pop-ups, and more, we’ll break down the strategies that fuel demand and drive fans to take action.

The future of health isn't about choosing between pharmaceuticals and supplements – it's about understanding how both can work together. This panel explores the need for science-backed supplementation as food systems evolve and health challenges become more complex. We'll break down the false dichotomy between pharmaceuticals and natural supplements, highlighting how reactive medicine and proactive supplementation can coexist. Through expert insights, we'll bridge pharmaceutical literacy with supplement science, empowering consumers to make informed decisions about integrative nutrition.

It’s a Friday night and college students Jack and Montgomery have got big plans: They’re going to do drugs and order pizza. But when the home-made drug they ingest turns out to be MUCH wilder than they thought, the simple journey down two flights of stairs to retrieve their pie becomes a mind-bindingly transformative quest. Still though, how hard can it be? The only thing in their way is a broken elevator, Montgomery’s social anxiety, the fact that everybody in the school hates Jack, a sociopathic RA, a vengeful butterfly, a robot with a dream, and this insane drug that has absolutely no regard for the basic laws of reality.

Join the conversation shaping the future of psychedelics and connect with curious minds from around the globe. Whether you're just exploring or a seasoned psychonaut, you're invited to dive into meaningful dialogue, forge new connections, and contribute to a growing movement. Together, let’s co-create a vibrant, inclusive psychedelic community.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Agents & Managers, Publicity & Marketing, Screenwriting.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Publicity & Marketing, "Sales, Acquisitions, & Distribution", Narrative Filmmakers.

What if true well-being comes not from self-optimization but from collective care? This session explores how we can design public spaces for rest, connection, and restoration. Industry experts share why parks, bathhouses, and shared spaces matter more than ever. From global traditions and new urban experiments, they make the case for new public institutions reviving communal well-being outside of commodified services or tech-driven wellness.

An extension of our popular Mentor Sessions, our Round Table Sessions not only allow attendees to learn from the industry experts that sit at each of the three tables in this session but they also allow attendees to learn from the questions and experiences of their peers as well. This Round Table Session will bring together industry experts and SXSW attendees for an enlightening discussion on Programming.

One skill never goes out of demand: clear, memorable communication. No matter who you’re designing for, your words and visuals need to stick. But most of what we’re taught about content design is well-intended fiction From “just keep it simple” to “use more pictures,” we follow rules that feel right, but often backfire. There’s no shortage of advice on how to design content that sticks in memory, but how much of it is backed by brain science? This session explores how myths related to repetition, emotion, complexity, imagery and more influence all aspects of user design and experience.

In exclusive interviews and air traffic control audio, #SKYKING tells the story of Horizon Air ground service agent Richard “Beebo” Russell, who clocked into work, stole a $33 million plane, and took off into the skies of the Pacific Northwest—embarking on a white-knuckle flight that came to embody the hopes, dreams, and despair of the American working class.

What if the next frontier of technology isn’t faster phones or smarter algorithms, but a synthesis with the sacred? From oracle traditions to large language models, from spirit boards to neural networks, technology has always mirrored our metaphysics. Can AI act as oracle, mirror, muse, even psychopomp? What happens when machines begin speaking in sacred symbols and mythic patterns? Adler will share insights from developing MOODS, her AI platform trained on esoteric and psychological frameworks, while Phillip traces the historic entanglement between paranormal belief and technological innovation.

Calling all Tech Marketers attending SXSW. We’re hosting a dedicated meetup for tech marketers to connect, swap notes, and talk shop. Whether you're looking to discuss the latest in AI-driven advertising or want to hear which new vendors your peers are actually excited about, this is the place to be. See you there!

We often look up to those who follow their own path, but the journey there was usually not as easy as it seems. This conversation will touch on the panelist’s individual experiences of charting her own career in healthcare and how she weathered setbacks along the way, while sharing practical tips for how others can draw courage to diverge in their professional journeys.

Truth has never been straightforward. But now, AI offers to solve it—filter the noise, rank the sources, settle the debate. We’re told it’ll help us see clearly across politics, science, work, art, and justice. But what if the answers it gives us come with hidden terms? In this talk, Steven Rosenbaum unpacks the uneasy promise of algorithmic truth—and what’s lost when machines start shaping what counts as real. The Future of Truth: How AI Shapes Reality.

As DEI loses institutional backing, a new class of underrepresented producers is rewriting the rules—building hit content, creative power, and commercial leverage on their own terms. This session explores how to turn crisis into strategy, pitching into deals, and representation into real returns. For anyone ready to produce boldly in a cautious industry, this is the roadmap to navigating—and thriving—in post-DEI Hollywood.

The need to compete is deeply ingrained in every aspect of our lives and work. It’s often viewed as a positive: we are told it motivates us to do our best, to work hard, that it drives innovation and excellence. But, what if that’s a lie? In this session, Ruchika T. Malhotra, in conversation with author, speaker and HBR editor Amy Gallo, offers a new framework for flourishing at work and in life, by highlighting five key principles to mythbust what we've been taught about competition, rewrite the rules, and build cultures of collaboration, solidarity, and mutuality—that lift everyone up.

Autonomous AI agents are moving beyond recommendations to making decisions and executing transactions on our behalf—reshaping the shopping journey itself. As commerce becomes software-mediated, experiences are increasingly optimized for machines, not humans, changing discovery, choice, and brand interaction. While agent-led commerce reduces friction, it raises new questions around trust and accountability.

Major music streaming services are focusing more on live music including showcasing concert dates. What’s driving this shift, and what does it mean for artists, promoters, and the broader live music ecosystem? This panel will delve into the economic and cultural forces shaping the intersection of live and digital music.

AI is transforming marketing careers, not just the work itself. According to the 2025 CMO Survey, 17.2% of marketing efforts now involve AI and machine learning, with that share expected to reach 44.2% within three years. Traditional career paths are shifting, especially in fast-moving areas like advertising and branding, and hybrid roles like strategist plus prompt engineer are becoming the new norm. This panel dives into how to adapt, build in-demand skills, and navigate a career path that looks very different from even five years ago.

Goldie Chan will be signing copies of “Personal Branding for Introverts” at the SXSW Bookstore.

An intimate look into Jack Johnson’s evolution from surfer to filmmaker to world-renowned musician. The documentary traces how his early years making surf films with close friends became a foundation for a much broader creative life, capturing moments in and out of the water that later surfaced in his songwriting. Blending rare footage from those formative surf films and Johnson's personal and family archives with present-day reflections, the film weaves together how lived experience, friendship, and exploration shaped the sound and stories behind the music.

After Gloria and Nick break up, Gloria takes us through Nick's dating history, untangling his web of ex-girlfriends through details she can find online. But when she discovers Kaylinn, the hottest most basic ex-girlfriend to ever exist, Gloria not only loses herself, she loses control of the story she's been telling. Basic is a comedy that blends the magical-realism of jealous paranoia with the magic of falling in love.

Maggie works as a content moderator for VueQ Moderation Services, spending her days filtering the internet’s darkest content, driven by guilt over her sister's suicide. When Maggie blocks a cryptic video uploaded by an anonymous user, she and her team begin to be hunted by an insidious entity that haunts them through every screen in their lives.

Across the U.S., music communities are changing, how people make music, how they earn a living, how venues operate, and how cities respond. This meet-up brings together musicians, venue owners and operators, promoters, industry professionals, city staff, and community advocates working in music scenes of all sizes to discuss how local music scenes evolve and adapt.

Taking their name from the word for “heart” in the Afro-Cuban religion of Santería, the duo OKAN creates an alchemy of Cuban rhythms and chants with high-octane indie jazz and pop. Singing in Spanish, Yoruba, and Spanglish, OKAN explores resistance, rebirth, and joy — forging rhythm and harmony through acts of survival, both personal and cultural.

Returning stateside, Todd Gillis struggles to hold down work due to his condition and trauma from his time in Afghanistan . When his ex-wife sues for custody of his beloved daughter, Emmylou, Todd hits rock bottom. In an effort to impress his case appointed judge, Todd joins a pirate re-enactment crew that his daughter is fond of. Through a newfound community Todd begins a journey of healing he never expected.

Joost van Dreunen will be signing copies of “One Up: Creativity, Competition, and the Global Business of Video Games” at the SXSW Bookstore.

Chart topping artist/actor/author Russ sits down with TuneCore Chief Executive Officer Andreea Gleeson to discuss his path to success as an independent artist and the nontraditional fan engagement, release strategies, and alternative revenue streams that have paved the way for global stardom. From the foundation of his label DIEMON to his stint on the Columbia roster, his triumphant return to independence and the success of his latest Billboard chart topping album W!LD, Russ has built a career as a modern renaissance man on his own terms and serves as an inspiration for other aspiring artists.

Born on the frontera, Sultanes del Yonke channels the chaos, color, and rhythm of the border into a sound built from the unexpected. As they prepare to promote their debut album, due in April, the band is evolving its sound — keeping their regional rhythms and DIY spirit while weaving in samples, drum machines, and experimental, dance-driven styles. This collision of influences does true justice to the yonke in their name: raw, eclectic, and born from the beautiful chaos of the border. Recent milestones include a tour supporting Tropa Mágica and a standout performance at SXSW, solidifying their expanding live footprint.

Sometime in the future, Rio de Janeiro lies in ruins—its society fractured by class warfare, its people consumed by a brutal spectacle known as the Beast Race. In this high-stakes competition, masked runners tear through a devastated city while the elite wager on their lives. Every runner must pledge a collateral: a human life condemned to the mysterious, dreaded Coast of Hell if they lose. Mano leads the Death Perimeter, a rebel zone devoted to dismantling the race. But when he discovers his younger sister has been offered as collateral by her boyfriend, Mano is forced to do the unthinkable: enter the race he’s spent his life resisting.

Psychedelic Punk in Spanish. Forced Jazz meditation.

“Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice” is a hilarious, stylized, R-rated action-comedy about two gangsters and the woman they love trying to survive the most dangerous night of their lives. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s one wild ingredient added to the mix: a time machine. The film, which will premiere March 27, 2026, exclusively on Hulu, stars Vince Vaughn, James Marsden, Eiza González, Keith David, Jimmy Tatro, Stephen Root, Lewis Tan, Ben Schwartz, Emily Hampshire, and Arturo Castro, and is written and directed by BenDavid Grabinski, produced by Andrew Lazar, p.g.a., and executive produced by Richard Middleton and Vanessa Humphrey.

"Adam's Apple" is an intimate, collaborative documentary told through the dual perspectives of Adam, a transgender teen, and his mother, visual artist Amy Jenkins, that offers an authentic and tender counterpoint to the hostility facing trans youth today. Adam’s journey balances the milestones of gender transition with the rhythms of adolescence. As Adam asserts his identity and steps out into the world, his parents grapple with the challenges of raising a teen while learning to let go. Through a visually poetic approach, the film transforms a deeply personal archive, collected over two decades, into a powerful, joyful testament to the beauty and difficulty of reckoning with profound change.

An unsung pioneer of 1970s Texas Progressive Country, Steven Fromholz had a knack for snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. Revered by legends like Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett & John Denver, he remained commercially unknown. He sought redemption on the Rio Grande as a river guide until a debilitating stroke erased his musical memory, stripping Fromholz of his artistic identity. This intimate and impressionistic portrayal, bolstered by newly discovered archives as well as never-before-heard recordings, unveils the evolution of Fromholz, and reshapes the notion of success and artistic fortitude.

In this session, MacPaw CTO Vira Tkachenko will explore how AI is redefining the concept of the “personal computer,” offering a more intuitive, private, and personalized experience. Drawing on her experience developing for the Apple ecosystem for 17+ years, she will share insights on building AI for macOS. Vira will trace the journey of Macs from their inception and highlight AI trends in software taking place across the industry. Attendees can learn how on-device intelligence enhances productivity, respects user privacy, and keeps the Mac a powerful tool for focused, meaningful work.

AI tools rewrite emails, generate ideas, even decide what we see and when. But will they make us lazier thinkers—or force us to think beyond? Will it make us think more clearly or manipulate our perspectives? Will it widen the cognitive gap between rich and poor? Are our neuro-rights protected by design—or will screen time just be optimized again? In this live debate, you’ll pick a side: is AI expanding or eroding our minds? Expect sharp provocations, real-time participation, and one rule: you can’t outsource your thinking here. Join the battle for cognitive sovereignty.

Artist Demo Listening Sessions, Presented by Discovr Radio, at SXSW are an interactive format where attendees have the opportunity to play demos for music experts, sparking real-time feedback and meaningful industry connections. You must be present to have your music in the running to be heard! SXSW attendees not having demos played are encouraged to attend and listen in on the fun! Each session will be followed up a social hour. Physical submissions will not be accepted at the door. Demo’s will be played on a first-come, first-served basis and attendees must submit their demo’s prior to the day of the session by 11:59pm. Please carefully read and fill out the form below to officially submit your demo: https://airtable.com/appYFNh7bkKd8nmwh/pagfBEWaVPizme5jr/form

Light shapes biology. When spectrum and timing drift, circadian rhythms falter, degrading sleep, cognition, and long-term health. We move from hard science to possibility: technology that calibrates light to natural circadian cues, paired with daily practices - meditation, breath, mindful routines - to restore rhythm.

While generative AI dominates headlines, the true AI revolution in film and television is happening behind the scenes. From automated script breakdowns that assist with casting, budgeting, and identifying visual effects opportunities, to real-time compliance tools for flagging mature content themes, to simplified contract review for summarizing rights and talent obligations, artificial intelligence is transforming how film and television are planned, produced, and delivered. This panel unpacks how AI is streamlining production behind the scenes and raising new legal questions.

Playing it safe is the riskiest move a brand can make. In today’s culture, audiences crave authenticity, emotion, and tension - and the boldest campaigns are the ones that break through. Mariana O’Kelly, Executive Creative Director at Leo Chicago, explores how brands that embrace discomfort, controversy, and cultural tension are redefining connection in a crowded media landscape. From transforming missteps into cultural moments to using emotional storytelling that sparks conversation, this session reveals why bold thinking isn’t just creative, it’s essential for growth.

Featuring the urban visionaries behind NYC's High Line and DC's 11th Street Bridge Park, this session will explore how we can transform America's abandoned spaces – from old rail lines to vacant bridges – into community-built urban oases. Drawing insights from their new book, "Inspiration from the Field," Scott and Kira will inspire park advocates, urban planners, and city-lovers alike to reimagine America’s post-industrial infrastructure as public assets that can connect rather than divide, while unlocking new economic opportunities and scalable investment into neighboring communities.

Data centers are the invisible engines behind AI, streaming, and cloud computing—but their carbon and resource footprints are growing fast. Decarbonizing these energy-hungry systems takes more than clean power; it requires a full-scale rethink of how we design, build, power, cool, and manage digital infrastructure. This panel brings together leaders in carbon capture, battery storage, green building, water management, and high-performance infrastructure to explore how we can decarbonize the digital world—from the foundations up.

This immersive, hands-on workshop guides participants through The Dissolve: a nervous-system-safe method for moving through invisible barriers without force or burnout. You’ll name your own stuck point, map its emotional signature, and use tools like breathwork, the Feelings Wheel, and guided visualization to shift it. Walk away with a customized clarity map and a gentle, resonant next step—designed to move you forward with ease instead of push.

Authentic storytelling that captivates, surprises, and excites.

The internet is in shambles... and it's time to leave it for good. In this game built for a movie theater, you and the audience play as internet refugees armed only with your phones. Your mission? To escape the AI slop apocalypse and reach the Island of Sanctuary, rumoured to be the last good place on the Internet. From legendary creator Lucas Rizzotto, "Escape The Internet" blends cinema, gaming and theater to create an entirely new genre of live entertainment - one that will make you laugh, cry, and reveal who you - and the ones around you - truly are.

Constant productivity is killing creativity. It’s time to rethink the hustle and to step back, put down the phone, and skip the weekend doomscroll in order to supercharge your creative output. From neuroscience-backed hacks to ways to create joy in a remote world, like getting your team to do a few jumping jacks to kick off meetings or sending surprise team care packages, you’ll learn ways to rest, recharge, and fuel your best ideas. Because you won’t be replaced by AI, but you might be replaced by someone who knows when not to use it.

Join the cast and creators behind the HBO Original comedy series ROOSTER, from Warner Bros. Television, for a conversation about the making of the show. Panelists include co-showrunners, executive producers, and writers Bill Lawrence ("Ted Lasso,” “Shrinking”) and Matt Tarses ("Scrubs"), along with series stars Steve Carell (“Greg Russo”/EP), Charly Clive (“Katie Russo”), and Danielle Deadwyler (“Dylan Shepherd”).

Throughout history, food and art have served as two of humanity’s most universal languages. This panel explores their powerful intersection: how culinary storytelling and comic books can combine to reach two deeply passionate, nearly obsessive fanbases. From the global influence of Oishinbo to Anthony Bourdain’s Get Jiro, food-focused comics prove that something magical happens when chefs enter the frame.

Are You Ready to Scale Sales? How Fast?These two questions are mission-critical to the success of any startup, product launch, or market expansion. Yet, too often we rely on gut feel—or let irrelevant signals like a recent fundraise or comparisons to past unicorns— to drive our decisions.The Science of Scaling offers a rigorous framework for founders, executives, and investors to calculate the answers using their company’s actual performance data—not wishful thinking.Drawing on insights from hundreds of startups over the past 25 years, Mark Roberge—Founding CRO at HubSpot, Senior Lecturer at Harvard Business School, and Co-Founder of Stage 2 Capital—reveals the five most common reasons revenue acceleration efforts fail.Whether you're a founder starting to scale, an investor guiding your portfolio, or a GM launching a new product, The Science of Scaling framework is your operating manual.Don’t guess. Don’t gamble. Scale scientifically.

2026 is the year AI goes fully agentic. UX needs to catch up—or risk sinking with the Figma Titanic. This hands-on workshop is your lifeboat, where we will sketch our way to survival through the stormy waters of agentic AI. Using pencils, sticky notes, and an LLM (ChatGPT, Claude, etc.), we'll prototype autonomous agents using RAG, digital twins, and value matrices. Forget perfect pixels. This is low-fidelity, high-velocity UX for AI. The ship is sinking. Let’s design our way out.

As AI reshapes everything, how do you pivot your life, career, or company before you’re left behind? Join Jacqueline Corbelli—3x founder and investor, UN and Vatican advisor, and author of Changemaker—for a practical session on navigating inflection points. Drawing on decades of experience transforming companies, Corbelli shares proven solutions to empower individuals and companies, offering a modern framework for using AI, adopting the right mindset, and evolving in a world where five-year plans no longer apply. Are we too early, too late—or right on time?

What would healthcare look like if we could connect the dots? Care today is still episodic and fragmented, without capturing the bigger picture of your health. This conversation brings together clinician and health tech perspectives to explore how interoperability and connecting disparate data, from wearables to health records, holds the promise to unlock personalized preventative health. We’ll discuss how AI-powered tools are closing data and access gaps, while ensuring data safety and privacy, enabling us to turn fragmented health information into whole person care that never clocks out.

The world’s biggest gaming platforms aren’t battlefields, they’re social networks with soundtracks players choose, share, and craft. This panel brings together innovators from STYNGR, Moonsworth (Lunar), Hangout, and the Major Labels to explore how music discovery, creator tools, and community-driven worlds are reshaping the relationship between artists, players, and platforms. Learn how mods, servers, and UGC economies are becoming the next frontier for music engagement and fandom. Join us for an in depth review of how to harness and monetize the power and cultural capital of music

Streamers and studios are consolidating, a full third of television production has been cut, people aren't going to the movies as often anymore, and professionals are not only leaving the industry, but the trades have begun reporting when prominent ones do. But you're undeterred. You intend to break in. And many are saying horror is the industry's salvation. Screenwriter and Producer C. Robert Cargill (Sinister, Doctor Strange, The Gorge, The Black Phone) will discuss writing horror for Hollywood, tips and tricks on how to write, sell, and produce, and share what he’s learned about navigating the current environment swollen with unsold scripts.

Since 2023, the HR and HRTech Professionals Meetup has provided a fantastic opportunity for attendees to engage in thought-provoking conversations. For 2026, as industries continue to transform due to new technologies and shifting behaviors, we aim to provoke high-quality discussions on relevant workplace topics, including the implications of AI in career development, employability and HR core activities, talent engagement and attraction, upskilling and reskilling, leadership, culture, and challenges associated with a multi-generational workforce.

AI is transforming business interactions, and one question looms large: do customers prefer human connection? Neuroscience offers a unique lens to answer this. This session shares surprising findings from recent studies tracking how buyers’ brains react in real time to AI agents vs. humans, including what makes AI persuasive, where humans outperform, and why AI often wins attention, but not memory. Drawing on brain scans, voice analysis, and eye tracking, this session reveals what’s actually happening inside your customer’s mind when they interact with AI tools and what to do about it.

There's a global sync market outside the US that is thriving. And there are key differences to understand if you want to reach them. This curated group of top international music supervisor panelists will discuss not only those key insights but also get practical about how you can tailor your approach to get the attention you need. Whether you're looking to pitch music or become an ad music supervisor yourself, this panel's intention is to be insightful and provide helpful tools for your next steps. The path isn't linear so all are welcome.

This panel convenes a powerhouse group of professionals across talent representation, production, and management to explore what it really takes to break an artist in 2026.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in XR, Immersive Technology, Entrepreneurship, Funding.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Management.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Music Tech, Contracts & Agreements, Data.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Immersive Technology, Storytelling, XR.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in A&R, Distribution.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Marketing/PR, Women in Music, Streaming & Programming, Data.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Data, Music Tech, Emerging Technologies.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Contracts & Agreements, Educations, and Women in Music.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Content Strategy/Production, Marketing/Advertising/PR, Storytelling, Architecture.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Sync/Licensing, Women in Music, Publishing.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Data Science.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Streaming & Programming, Live Events, Music Tech.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Product Management/Development, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Future of Work.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Sustainability, Business Development, Product Management/Development.

Visionary artists and activists Richie Shazam and Tourmaline come together to discuss the state of queer and trans identity, legacy, resistance, and progress in America today. Following the 2025 release of Tourmaline’s best selling biography of Marsha P. Johnson, and inspired by their own experiences as multi-disciplinary changemakers, this conversation will focus on the exciting and subversive ways that art and activism can intersect and the lessons we can learn from queer history in order to continue building a more authentic and inclusive future.

Join fellow sports, entertainment, and brand communications professionals for a PR and media meetup during SXSW, hosted by Tony Fay Public Relations. This gathering brings together publicists, media strategists, brand leaders, journalists, producers, and marketers working at the intersection of culture, live events, and storytelling.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Development, Producers/Production.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Doc Filmmakers, Development, Producers/Production.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Doc Filmmakers, Development.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Doc Filmmakers, Development, Screenwriting, International, Narrative Filmmakers.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Development, Narrative Filmmakers, Producers/Production.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Below the Line, Producers/Production, International.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Producers/Production, "Sales, Acquisitions, & Distribution", Programming.

Pain is currently measured on a qualitative scale first used 70 years ago, leaving many to feel like their experiences aren’t fully understood. With advances in technology, the healthcare industry is exploring how connected care systems, alongside emerging AI tools, can help change this model by quantifying the physiological changes a person undergoes when they are experiencing pain, potentially offering a new way to discuss and treat chronic pain. This session will review the realities of living with pain and how a deeper understanding of the way pain affects the body can improve treatment.

The housing crisis isn’t just about supply—it’s about broken systems. We'll explore models that unlock existing inventory, maximize public dollars, and connect fragmented efforts into one coordinated engine. Using real-time data, cross-sector partnerships, and performance accountability, this approach expands access without building new units. The result: more inventory, faster placements, stronger landlord participation, and reduced housing insecurity at scale. We invite you to learn how public–private partnerships can shift from reactive crisis management to proactive systems design.

An extension of our popular Mentor Sessions, our Round Table Sessions not only allow attendees to learn from the industry experts that sit at each of the three tables in this session but they also allow attendees to learn from the questions and experiences of their peers as well. This Round Table Session will bring together industry experts and SXSW attendees for an enlightening discussion on Producing.

Humanoids and robots are moving from science fiction to reality, and vision is key to that evolution. Just as our visual cortex allows humans to perceive and adapt, machine vision gives robots the ability to understand, navigate, and interact with the world around them. This session explores how advances in depth sensing, AI compute, and cloud-scale learning are giving humanoids and robots sight, safety, and awareness to operate naturally among us—and what that means for the future of human-robot interaction.

In this lively conversation between three filmmakers, you’ll hear how they’ve successfully leapt from directing music videos with famous artists to premiering acclaimed features at top global festivals. Emma Higgins’ debut, Sweetness, world-premiered at SXSW 2025; RT Thorne’s film, 40 Acres, had its US debut at SXSW 2025; and Floria Sigismondi’s film, The Runaways, has achieved cult status in pop culture. They will discuss the transition from the tight budgets of videos to the logistics of securing funding for their own stories and having the creative license to fulfill their visions.

Across epochs and mediums, creators have described inspiration not as invention, but reception. Echoing paranormal researcher John Keel’s suggestion that the human brain functions like a receiver picking up signals from “some central source,” comedian/mystical philosopher Duncan Trussell and SpectreVision co-founder/paranormal experiencer Daniel Noah examine the question, is creativity is less about generating ideas and more about tuning in, and if consciousness is a channel rather than a container, who - or what – is broadcasting through us?

As AI, robotics, and economies of scale converge, a new era of human enhancement is emerging. In this session, bionic limb pioneer Aadeel Akhtar reveals how shared breakthroughs between robots and humans are transforming assistive tech into accessible, intelligent extensions of the body. From real-time adaptive control to mass-producible bionic hands, this is a glimpse into a future where disability is no longer a limitation and AI is rewriting what the human body can do.

Anime is no longer a niche! It’s one of today’s most powerful tools for extending franchises, reimagining IP, and reaching global audiences. This panel, with leaders from Crunchyroll, Dallas Mavericks, and Twitch, explores how talent, brands, and creators are using anime as both a narrative and business engine to fuel next-gen storytelling. For musicians, athletes, game studios, and fashion labels, anime offers a dynamic, fan-forward way to build immersive worlds, show up meaningfully in pop culture, and engage loyal audiences that drive long-term brand equity.

With people exposed to up to 10,000 calls to action every day, it’s becoming increasingly difficult and expensive for organizations and personal brands to attract audiences. While many believe that more money leads to more awareness, and thus, more audience, research consistently shows otherwise. In fact, aggressive campaigns can backfire when people feel they’re being sold to. The magical key in effective campaigning is rooted in behavioral science, and during this session, people will learn how to create resonating campaigns from crafting communications all the way to advertising techniques.

We’re drowning in biohacking hype. Billions of social media impressions promise easy health fixes and longer life, but how much is real? This panel cuts through the noise, separating fact from fiction for popular biohacks like vagus nerve stimulation and bioimplants. Join leading experts who debunk myths, reveal data-backed science and explore the REAL future of health optimization. Whether you’re managing chronic pain, seeking longevity, or striving for peak athletic performance, discover evidence-based strategies to boost your wellbeing in an era of misinformation.

Large language models scoop up news for training and live chatbots, but rarely pay a dime. Will they eventually put journalism out of business by self-generating “news” content or regurgitating data collected from gadgets and glasses? With trust and value in news plummeting, perhaps journalism’s role as a watchdog, forum for social exchange, and spark for civic engagement is already defunct. Or does original, ethical reporting offer something special? In this provocative session, experts in AI ethics, journalism and global trends share divergent views on the future of journalism.

Stop fighting about office days and start designing workplace experiences that people actually want. This panel brings together LinkedIn's workforce research leader with real-time employee insights, the architect of Gensler's leading workplace experience platform, and Rivian's expert in customer community building. Discover why meaningful in-person connection becomes even more valuable as AI handles routine work, cutting edge examples of experimental workplaces, and proven strategies to create immediately measurable ROI from thoughtfully designed workplace experiences and communities.

What happens when your career makes zero sense on paper—but gets you exactly where you need to be? Two women share their very non-linear journeys: from the Air Force to Harvard to a gratitude startup, and from baking pies to founding a startup. In a world obsessed with “coherent” resumes, this conversation explores how detours, pivots, and reinventions are not just valid—but powerful. Expect laughs, real talk, and permission to break the rules.

After falling in love with Vietnamese cuisine during a life-changing trip abroad, Jerald—a self-taught chef from small-town Texas—arrives in New York City with one goal: to open his own restaurant. Juggling odd jobs and secretly perfecting recipes in a basement kitchen, he’s running out of time and money. When he meets Nhung, a sharp-witted Vietnamese waitress, their unlikely alliance sparks a bold culinary journey. From improvised street hustles to a hidden speakeasy, they fight to turn Jerald’s dream into reality. A story of passion, resilience, and unexpected friendship in the heart of the city.

Katharina, Ricky, Malou, and Victoria live in a self-made anarchist group home - no parents, no school, no rules. Under the loose watch of social worker Ballack, things are going pretty well. But Katharina doesn’t want to live past 18, and her birthday is two weeks away. Her friends scramble to hide her suicide attempts, afraid the truth will destroy the only “home” they’ve ever had. In this darkly comedic tale of rebellion, abandonment, and surviving the absurd, "Thanks For Nothing" is the kids' collective FU to the adults who’ve abandoned or failed them.

It sucks to be Brian. He’s smart, funny, and capable, but his mental health issues make it hard for anyone to see it - especially when compared to his effortlessly cool older brother. At school, Brian harbors an unrequited crush on Brooke: she’s smart, kind, pretty… and very much his teacher. A disastrous drama club audition leads to yet another one of Brian’s trademark public meltdowns. Thus begins Brian’s search for his new “thing”. On paper he’s chosen the worst possible fit: running for class president. With help from his therapist and the new kid, Justin, Brian launches his high-stakes campaign and sparks a messy, exquisitely awkward journey toward self-acceptance.

Mickey spent the last ten years exploring her transition process within the conservative context of Sinaloa, Mexico. Through digital archives, artistic reenactments, and deeply personal encounters, the film moves between tenderness and rage, transforming memory into an act of freedom. An exploration of self-perception and a non-punitive confrontation with the past.

Grace Pine, a driven though easily distracted 23-year-old. She leaves her quirky parents’ home for a shared apartment found on Craigslist to devote herself to writing the next great book in the 33 1/3 album exploration series. Hers will be on the iconic Alanis Morissette opus Jagged Little Pill. Loft parties introduce Grace to two paramours. Unfortunately, they are members of the same rock band, Bone Patrol. And instead of sequestering herself away to complete her draft, she uses her music industry know-how to get in with the band as their publicist.Through wine-fuelled poetry readings and other ill-advised choices, Grace is in the trenches of self-discovery.

Sean and Kim Harrison are a suburban couple about to divorce. By renting their guest house to a quiet Middle Eastern brother and sister, Amir and Jahan Razi, they find a perfect solution: raise money to fix and sell their house, then separate. But when bizarre occurrences begin to add up – mysterious lights, missing animals, glimpses of unexplainable tech – in the days before the President’s upcoming visit to town, their guests' strange behavior starts to seem suspicious and potentially dangerous. As Sean and Kim investigate their new tenants, they rediscover the emotional connection they once shared. But reconciliation may come at a significant cost in this timely and provocative thriller.

Join Women in Music for our annual WIM Meet-Up at SXSW to spark connections and build community across borders. Everyone is welcome!

"The Ascent" is the inspiring true story of Colorado Springs bilateral-amputee climber Mandy Horvath’s record-breaking attempt to crawl to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro on her hands. At 21, Mandy lost both of her legs under mysterious circumstances—an event that shattered her trust in the world around her. As she pushes her body to its limits on Africa’s tallest mountain, Mandy must reckon with the unanswered questions of her past and learn to trust again if she is to succeed.

An intimate, arresting portrait of cyclist Moriah Wilson—raised by a fierce, loving family—whose singular drive becomes her superpower, carrying her to athletic brilliance and, devastatingly, toward a life cut short by murder.

From the flickering screens of Hollywood horror, to the haunted cane fields of colonial Haiti, "Black Zombie" unearths the buried origins of the zombie, reclaiming it as a symbol of survival and spiritual resistance.

As a bassist, vocalist, and composer, my journey as a music creator has been shaped by my rich cultural heritage and passion for blending traditional jazz with contemporary influences. I grew up in the suburbs of Paris, born to parents of Senegalese, Gambian, and Malian descent. This background continues to inspire my artistry, which merges the sounds of jazz legends like Betty Carter and Wayne Shorter with the soulful rhythms of artists such as D’Angelo and Stevie Wonder. Since moving to London at 18 to study double bass at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, I have built a strong live track record, performing at renowned festivals and venues including the EFG London Jazz Festival, Jazz Café, Cheltenham Jazz Festival, We Out Here, Brick Lane Jazz Festival, and Pizza Express Soho. These experiences have been pivotal in building my fanbase and establishing my presence in the UK. Internationally I have performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival and countries around the world including France, Poland , South Korea and more.

Ruchika T. Malhotra will be signing copies of “Uncompete: Rejecting Competition to Unlock Success” at the SXSW Bookstore.

Greg Kwedar is a two-time Academy Award-Nominated filmmaker. His film SING SING garnered three Oscar nominations, along with nods at the BAFTAs, Critics Choice, and Independent Spirit Awards. It won the NBR Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. Greg co-wrote and executive produced creative partner Clint Bentley's TRAIN DREAMS. The decorated film went on to win the NBR for Best Adapted Screenplay and received four Oscar nominations including Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Picture.

The new generation of AI models and agentic AI systems are fundamentally transforming the pace of scientific discovery, offering new ways to solve humanity's most complex challenges. By supercharging productivity and augmenting human expertise, these tools help researchers push the boundaries of knowledge faster than ever before. From synthesizing vast scientific literature and generating novel hypotheses to creating new research plans and executing simulations, agentic AI acts as a powerful collaborator in the lab. We are entering a new era of collaborative science, one where AI works alongside researchers to turn the next iteration into the next great breakthrough.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Agents & Managers, Doc Filmmakers, Producers/Production.

When WhatsApp’s former Head of Security raised alarms about flaws that put billions at risk, Meta fired him. He’s not the only insider punished for protecting the public. This session explores the cost of speaking up inside Big Tech—and how we can build real safeguards, legal protections, and public support so that truth-telling in the age of AI isn’t a career-ending act of courage.

Are you feeling disconnected, stuck, or unfulfilled? Do you know there’s more to life, but something is holding you back from reaching your potential? In former real-estate entrepreneur and spiritual guide Danny Morel’s new book Awaken Your Highest Self, he teaches you to embrace love over fear and guides you on a journey of self-discovery and healing that will transform your life. Join Danny’s book reading with former actor David Sutcliffe to go beyond labels and limitations and reconnect with the energy that creates everything in life.

The pioneering base-editing method of Alexis Komor, PhD, was recently used to create a custom therapy for an infant with carbamoyl phosphate synthetase 1, a deadly rare disease. Her colleague, Gene Yeo, PhD, favors another new approach: RNA-targeting precision therapeutics, which he used to target ALS & aid a child with developmental epileptic encephalopathy. Both employ AI to discover the roots of polygenic diseases—from the ultra-common like diabetes & heart disease to the ultra-rare—& decode the Dark Genome. More on the promise the technology holds for the future of personalized treatment.

Generative AI has rapidly advanced in text, imagery, and 3D content, but its potential to shape the physical world remains largely untapped. This panel explores how AI can be used to generate designs for things that can be built, manufactured, or constructed, spanning products, machines, buildings, and infrastructure. Experts in computational design, AI research, and digital fabrication will discuss current challenges, technical hurdles, and the foundational work needed to unlock future impact and bring generative design into the realm of the physical.

Habitat loss, climate change, and disease are threatening the ecological integrity of our planet. These threats are driving declines in wildlife populations, accelerated by the loss of genetic diversity. Biobanking, including the cryopreservation of living cells, coupled with advanced digital tools, provides an opportunity for a future where genetic diversity, species, and ecosystems can be protected and restored. This panel will discuss the urgency of protecting species—from microbes to megafauna—and how biobanking and digital strategies are helping give wildlife a lifeline.

Games aren’t just translated, they’re co-created with local communities from day one. This panel pulls back the curtain on how global hits come to life across markets without losing their soul. Hear behind-the-scenes stories on how early local insights fuel global growth, how culturally meaningful in-game experiences with players across regions drive deeper worldwide engagement, and how partnerships with regional hubs are building a global pipeline of creative talent. Nika will share a clear four-step framework to make culture and community central to game development, from concept to launch.

Whether you shoot it, write it, design it, sing it, or sell it - this space is for you. Creative AF (aka Women Who Create Sh*t) is a high-energy, no-BS meetup for women-identifying creatives, founders, filmmakers, freelancers, content hustlers, and brand builders who are making sh*t happen. Come for fast-paced connection games, resource swaps, and real talk & stay for the energy and photo-ops you’ll actually want to post. No panels. No gatekeeping. Just powerful, talented women building cool things and backing each other up.

Innovation in tech isn't just shipped features—it's the everyday risks teams either take or avoid when AI, data, and customers are all moving at once. This session shows how ICF-credentialed team coaching helps product, engineering, and innovation teams talk honestly about those risks, use conflict productively, and turn uncertainty around AI and new tech into small, testable experiments instead of stalemates. Gain a realistic view of what blocks team courage, practical language for your teams, and a simple structure to support braver, more creative decisions in high-stakes work.

Today’s most successful tech brands don’t just launch products - they build emotional universes. This session explores how brands are moving beyond screens to connect across sound, space, motion and mood. From sonic identities to tactile packaging and immersive design systems, we’ll unpack how multisensory storytelling creates emotional connections—the real competitive edge in the AI age. This isn’t about rejecting technology - it’s about designing through it to bring feeling and meaning back into experience. Expect provocations and a manifesto for the future of emotionally intelligent design.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Development, Producers/Production.

Panelists: -Greg Rosenbaum - Vice President, South by Southwest EDU Key Highlights: -The 15th anniversary of South by Southwest EDU was marked by reflections on its growth from a small series of sessions to an impactful educational festival. -Greg Rosenbaum expressed gratitude to speakers, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees for their contributions, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the event. -Ron Reed, co-founder, was celebrated for his vision and dedication to building the Edu community, drawing connections between education and opportunities for success. -The event featured a call for active participation, encouraging attendees to engage in discussions, ask questions, and take advantage of networking opportunities. Main Takeaways: -Plan Smartly: Utilize the mobile app and online resources to create a personalized agenda, while remaining open to spontaneous experiences. -Embrace Serendipity: Let go of strict schedules and be willing to explore unexpected connections and conversations. -Actively Participate: Engage in discussions and share perspectives, making the most out of the collaborative nature of the festival. -Build Community: Take advantage of networking opportunities to forge meaningful connections that could lead to impactful collaborations. The session set a vibrant and collaborative tone for the festival, inviting attendees to reflect on the role of education in shaping futures while celebrating its 15-year legacy. As the week unfolds, the spirit of togetherness and innovation promises to inspire dynamic discussions and connections.

New paradigm-shifting technologies seem to emerge every day, and the leaders that understand how to properly leverage the opportunities that come along with these new technologies can create huge competitive advantages for their organizations. Dava Newman, Ph.D., a futurist and the MIT Apollo Program Professor of Astronautics (as well as the former director of the MIT Media Lab and the first woman engineer to have served as a NASA deputy administrator) will reveal creative strategies for taking advantage of these opportunities. Learn how to make the most from technology breakthroughs in areas such as finding life elsewhere in the universe; climate+energy, and the convergence of artificial intelligence and generative biology. Dava’s mantra of “Love, Act, Discover, Innovate” urges leaders in business, government, and academia to courageously consider how innovation can truly change the way we engage with each other and our planet.

Fresh off his HBO comedy special, Chris Fleming takes SXSW for a joyride through the absurd, the existential, and the relatable. From viral suburban fever dreams to sold-out tours, Chris has built a comedy universe that’s as fearless as it is precise. Join us for a celebratory deep dive into his work, creative process, and what happens when clever storytelling meets wild physicality.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Producers/Production, Funding/Artist Support.

Some campaigns are known less for what they communicated, and more for how people responded. The social media loudspeaker helps people out-shout brands – and the anticipation of backlash is essential for smart marketers. Backlash is a new stage of the “consumer journey” when any brand decides to assert its values. Part discussion, part crisis simulation, learn to strategize and create for a world where consumers choose the division brands seek to surmount. Steel your values, weather undesired turbulence, and emerge as a business with integrity and advantage.

Women are struggling with different issues at different stages of life, whether it be infertility, peri/post menopause symptoms, metabolic dysfunction, autoimmune conditions, and more.

La Texana, the music project of José Ramírez, was born in 2021 in Tijuana, Baja California. At 17, with just a laptop and guitar, he began recording music inspired by Spanish alternative rock and post-punk influences. He debuted with Nunca He Sabido Amar, and in 2023 released his first EP, Morro, featuring Un Día Como Hoy, now with over 6.5 million streams. In 2025, La Texana released his first full-length album, signed by the spanish label Sonido Muchacho "La Casa Que Cae", a 10-track record exploring identity and new beginnings, reaching over 8 million streams. It includes standout tracks like Terco, El Sol, and Dispara. In May, he performed a sold-out debut at Lunario of Auditorio Nacional and is now touring across Mexico (40+ cities) and 7 countries, with more dates to come. La Texana is currently preparing for his biggest show yet at Teatro Metropólitan in February 2026. His style continues to evolve, blending vulnerability and nostalgia, while connecting with a new generation of Mexican musicians and growing an international audience.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Legal, Doc Filmmakers, Narrative Filmmakers.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Doc Filmmakers, Legal, "Sales, Acquisitions, & Distribution", Producers/Production.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Legal, "Sales, Acquisitions, & Distribution".

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Music Tech, Songwriting, Sync/Licensing, Women in Music, Emerging Technologies, Live Events, A&R, Audio/Production (Recording/Mixing/Mastering).

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in A&R, Touring, Startups, Management, Women in Music.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Future of Work, Immersive Technology, Storytelling.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Distribution, Marketing/PR, Music Tech, Streaming & Programming.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Sync/Licensing, Women in Music, Contracts & Agreements.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Architecture, Immersive Technology, Product Management/Development.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Content Strategy/Production, Storytelling, Marketing/Advertising/PR.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Emerging Technologies, Sync/Licensing, and Sales & Sponsorships.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Emerging Technologies, Music Tech, Startups.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Content Strategy/Production, Immersive Technology, XR.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Distribution, Contracts & Agreements, IP & Copyright, Music Tech, Sync/Licensing.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Funding, Entrepreneurship, Business Development.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Data Science, Product Management/Development.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Distribution, Streaming & Programming, Marketing/PR.

Meet the Managers is a must-attend gathering for music managers at SXSW, whether you’re a seasoned industry veteran or just starting out. Hosted by Music Managers Forum-US (MMF-US), the leading trade association for music managers in the U.S. and a proud member of the IMMF global network, this event brings together managers from around the world to connect, exchange insights, and discuss key issues shaping the business of artist management. MMF-US executives and board members will be on hand to share updates on advocacy, membership, and initiatives, and to connect with the global manager community.

Given the need for effective obesity treatments and the limits of current GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as muscle loss, poor tolerability, and frequent dosing, a next-generation solution is essential. Ideal treatments would focus on fat loss and muscle preservation, offer strong safety and tolerability, and be dosed less frequently. Advancements in RNA medicines, growth of human genetics databases, and potential for combination therapies have opened the door for innovative new therapies and combination approaches. Explore expert insights on future treatment opportunities.

An extension of our popular Mentor Sessions, our Round Table Sessions not only allow attendees to learn from the industry experts that sit at each of the three tables in this session but they also allow attendees to learn from the questions and experiences of their peers as well. This Round Table Session will bring together industry experts and SXSW attendees for an enlightening discussion on Publicity and Marketing.

Building on a 2023 SXSW presentation, this panel will be a light-hearted but highly educational conversation on the current science focusing on past, present, and future questions around human sexual activity in outer space environments - whether on private commercial space stations of the near future, or settlements on the surface of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Panelists will include some of the world's leading recognized experts in this fascinating and highly specific research field, covering everything from space medicine and biological reproduction to psychosocial issues and crew dynamics.

Sober Space is a welcoming gathering place for people in all forms of recovery during SXSW 2026. This space hosts all-format recovery meetings for Friends of Bill and all SXSW attendees who are seeking a supportive meeting environment during the festival. Participants are invited to sit together and share experience, strength, and hope in a confidential, judgment-free setting. Meetings are facilitated by The SIMS Foundation alongside trusted leaders from the recovery community.

What happens to civilization when the extraordinary is no longer theoretical?Last year’s documentary Age of Disclosure awakened millions to the reality that UFOs and non-human intelligence may be genuine phenomena, reframing the conversation from fringe belief to serious public inquiry. Constitutional attorney and prominent disclosure advocate Danny Sheehan takes the next step, examining the legal, cultural, and spiritual ramifications of a post-disclosure world. What shifts when the fantastic becomes fact? How do governments, institutions, religions, and markets adapt? And how does human identity evolve when we are no longer alone? Moderated by SpectreVision Radio Director Daniel Noah.

Africas music market is one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic in the world but success depends on more than a viral hit. In this session we’ll unpack the strategies behind breaking artists across the continent and beyond. From navigating fragmented streaming platforms and hyper-local radio to street teams, fan communities, and brand collabs, you’ll hear what works, what flops and what it takes to build lasting careers in Africa’s diverse music scenes. Expect a real case study of how one artist cracked the local market and the roadmap that turned regional buzz into international momentum.

Connect with a global community of UX and AX designers and researchers shaping the future of digital experiences. Hosted by Cindy Brummer of Standard Beagle and UX in ATX, this popular meetup returns to SXSW to bring together creatives working across user-centered design and AI-enabled experiences. Whether you’re into product design, research, or agentic systems, join us to swap ideas, network, and get inspired. All experience levels welcome—come meet your people!

The recorded music industry is becoming more consolidated, with major labels acquiring independent music organizations at a faster clip, and the role of the independent sector is shifting as a result. UMG’s proposed acquisition of Downtown Music Holdings is just one example of this, though the trend has been increasing in recent years. In this changing landscape, what does independent music mean in 2026, and is it still important? What resources and strategies can independent artists use to build their careers as the industry continues to evolve?

Mark Roberge will be signing copies of “The Science of Scaling” at the SXSW Bookstore.

Campeón Gabacho tells the story of Liborio, an endearing and mischievous young migrant whose only talent is taking punches. He crosses the Rio Grande to escape a harsh reality in Mexico, looking for a better life in the United States, and settles in a Latino barrio in New York City. Through his fists, his love, and his words, he faces cultural walls and prejudices that threaten his hopes, and becomes a hero in an unknown land.

Danny Morel will be signing copies of “Awaken Your Highest Self” at the SXSW Bookstore.

"Serling" is an immersive first-person journey exploring the life and legacy of one of television’s most visionary storytellers, Rod Serling. Told almost entirely in Serling’s own words, drawn from never-before-heard recordings and personal dictations, the film captures the man behind "The Twilight Zone" in all his complexity. The film weaves archival material with atmospheric recreations that echo the eerie visual language Serling made iconic. As his unmistakable voice guides us, Serling emerges not only as a master of storytelling, but as a man grappling with the trauma of war, the moral compromises of fame, and the hope that America might one day live up to its own ideals.

THE WAY WE MOVE is a feature-length documentary about Amber Galloway, a star ASL (American Sign Language) interpreter who specializes in live music interpretations. Amber teaches her art to share her life’s mission : making music accessible to the Deaf community. Armed with her astounding teaching skills, she will take her struggling new recruits on a one-of-a-kind journey, hoping they have what it takes to join her at Austin City Limits music festival. As the film unfolds, we learn about Amber’s painful past and about the lives of her recruits, Julian Ortiz and Angela "AV" Vilavong, as they come together and forge life-long bonds. A film about music, Deaf culture, connection and resilience.

When Abby’s boyfriend drops out of the high school play, she finds herself helping a school outlier step into the role opposite her. They spend a long night wandering around their town, examining their futures and unearthing surprises from their past.

After losing both her job and boyfriend, Jamie retreats to her small Texas hometown where friends and flings from a fateful high school summer turn her life upside down.

Authentic storytelling that captivates, surprises, and excites!

Blurring the line between performance and personal crisis, comedian Maria Bamford turns her mental health journey into material that’s riotously funny and ultimately inspiring. What emerges is a portrait of an artist transforming vulnerability into creative strength through honesty.

What does it mean to be a woman in a country where abortion is banned in all circumstances? In this lyrical documentary, women and girls speak about the challenges and consequences regarding unsafe abortion in the Dominican Republic.

Three sisters from rural New Hampshire formed a band in the late 1960s, but not by choice. Betty, Dorothy, and Helen Wiggin had no interest in playing music. In fact, they had no musical abilities at all. It was their father Austin, inspired by a prophecy, who became convinced that his girls would become rock stars. He pulled his daughters out of school, bought them a pair of cheap guitars and a drum kit, dubbed them The Shaggs, and basically commanded them to make music. In 1969, he brought the girls to a storefront recording studio outside of Boston, and the result is one of the most head-scratching and polarizing albums ever committed to vinyl. "We Are The Shaggs" is their story.

Kayla Bachman, an author who struggles with emotional connection, Zach Bachman, a lawyer who dreams of being a folk singer and Wes Bachman, a graphic novelist / gambling & pill addict, meet to discuss their younger sister Scarlett who joined a cult in Kentucky. Zach and his dysfunctional and absent parents have hired cult deprogrammer Rick Delacroix to help them rescue Scarlett. They embark on a roadtrip to save their sister, and bring their family together.

When novelist Ohm Bauman retreats to a remote inn to scatter his parents’ ashes, he is consumed by tales of a witch haunting the honeymoon suite. Disturbing visions and a shocking disappearance forces him to confront dark corners of his past.

Jimmy wakes up in a bathtub filled with his own blood, his wrists slit and his life rapidly nearly completion. This would be a textbook failed suicide attempt, only…Jimmy didn’t do it? At least, he’s pretty sure he didn’t. Alongside Margot, the 911 operator who took his call that faithful night, Jimmy begins an amateur-hour murder investigation, desperate to prove that this is a whodunnit and not a hedunnit. The list of suspects who might be happy if Jimmy wasn’t around anymore is fairly long—angry ex-girlfriends, frustrated siblings, exasperated psychiatrists, and resentful stepfathers. But the prime suspect is Jimmy himself.

After breaking the mysterious “One Wish Willow” to win his crush’s heart, a hopeless romantic finds himself getting exactly what he asked for but soon discovers that some desires come at a dark, sinister price.

Inspired by the Emmy-Award winning short documentary of the same name (Netflix, 2023), "The Dads" chronicles fathers of trans and nonbinary children as they are forced to choose between country and family when a new right-wing administration and conservative Supreme Court take hold in the United States. Filmed over the course of a year spanning retreats in rural Maine and Minnesota, protests, family milestones, a pivotal U.S. Supreme Court decision, and the collapse of gender-affirming care for youth, "The Dads" captures this national reckoning with remarkable intimacy through verite footage and interviews with the film’s main protagonists. This is fatherhood as an act of radical resistance.

A film that everyone is talking about, and audiences need another chance to see it.

Ananto is a multifaceted saxophonist, singer, and rapper whose sound lives at the intersection of heritage and modern expression. Drawing from his Indian roots and deep influences in jazz and R&B, Ananto creates music that feels both timeless and forward-thinking.

DJ DMoney is an Austin-based open-format DJ known for delivering high-energy, crowd-focused sets that blend Hip-Hop, R&B, throwbacks, and feel-good party anthems. With nearly a decade of experience behind the decks, he has built a reputation for reading rooms effortlessly and creating memorable moments across festivals, conventions, nightlife, and major brand events. His performance résumé spans stadiums, universities, lounges, and national-level activations. Whether soundtracking a packed party or a curated cultural experience, DJ DMoney’s style is defined by clean mixing, musical versatility, and an undeniable ability to move a crowd.

The highly popular comedy platform takes its sharp wit and quick-thinking comedy offline and onto the stage in a special SXSW performance! Dropout have been running their subscription comedy platform since 2018 and have tailored their improv skills for a live audience, promising a hilarious night of games and absurdity. Dropout was born out of the hugely successful comedy website College Humor and produces a wide variety of shows in a completely independent setting. They have quickly amassed a large audience through titles like Dimension 20, Game Changer, Very Important People and more, utilizing formats that mix razor-sharp comedy with gameplay. In this show hosted by Kurt Maloney, all of those finely crafted skills will be on show in a night of varied games and freewheeling comedy. Things are about to get wild. Reservations are available for 300 Platinum Badgeholders through SXSW GO or on the web schedule. Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the event to pick up a ticket at will call. Doors are at 6pm, show is at 7pm.

J-Nice The Kingdom Builder, is an Austin, TX Christian hip-hop artist who has been creating music for over 20 years. He is the founder of Kingdom Builder Ministries. This movement inspires youth and young adults to use the arts to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

"Bruce Springsteen + Cocteau Twins = Junerise" - KUTX

Waco, Texas-born, now Brooklyn-based alt-folk indie artist and producer Meredith (mer) Marcum has emerged into the New York City scene. Trading her small-town roots for Brooklyn’s bustling music scene, mer set out to carve her niche and make authentic art in many forms, which comes through in her singular and introspective music characterized by evocative, lyrical intimacy underscored by fresh production.

Ruido Selecto is a musician, producer, and sound engineer from Medellín, Colombia. His music focuses on Caribbean rhythms such as Cumbia, Salsa, Electronic Dub, and Afro-diasporic styles that have traditionally reached Colombia through the Picó Soundsystem culture. Ruido defines his sound as "Caribbean Bass." Since 2015, he has released two studio albums and several collaborations and EPs (Secret Lab 2015, Piratería Caribeña y Contrabando 2019 Equador 2022, and Cumbia Soundsystem EP 2025). In 2024, he released a series of remixes of iconic tracks from the legendary Colombian label Discos Fuentes, titled 14 CAÑONAZOS EN DUB, an audiovisual production that was highlighted by the specialized media outlet Gladys Palmera. He has toured nationally and internationally in Mexico and Central America, with additional performances in the United States and Europe. Ruido Selecto has participated in festivals such as Altavoz, África Futura, and Invazion Fest, sharing the stage with artists like Mitú, Afrotronix, Ghetto Kumbé, Systema Solar, Alligatorz, among others. He has worked as a producer and mastering engineer for Discos Fuentes , Folcore Barcelona and No Sabes.

The Bures Band, is a fresh and classic mix of American folk rock and blues, driven byStephen Bailey (guitar and vocals) recognised for his work as a solo artist and for his roleas lead vocals and keys in psychedelic rock outfit, Mt. Mountain (Fuzz Club UK)) who haveshared the stage with greats including: King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, Thee Oh Sees,Moon Duo, The Murlocs, Orb, Sleep, The Babe Rainbow) and showcases the musicaltalents of local musicians: Callum Anderson (lead guitar and vocals) Noah Symmans(drums) Danny Miles (guitar and vocals) and TomBeech (bass)

Deloyd Elze, aka Jacob Henry Allen, is a genre-blending artist and poet from Jacksonville, Florida, whose music fuses traditional American songwriting with experimental and electronic textures. Over the past decade, Deloyd has tinkered with soundscapes that meld twangy guitars, lo-fi drums, dissonant synths and rich acoustic textures into ‘digital twang,’ a sound that seamlessly weaves between country, indie and electronic. The name Deloyd Elze honors his great-grandfather, a resilient man whose legacy of grit and defiance inspires his artistry. Like his namesake, Deloyd’s music is rooted in authenticity, reflecting the complexities of the human experience. Now based in Los Angeles, he’s creating music that speaks to life’s many layers, drawing from his family’s history and his own journey of self-discovery and survival.

Radium Dolls are one of Australia’s most exciting rising rock bands, known for explosive live shows, razor-sharp lyricism, and a sound that balances grit, heart, and swagger in equal measure. Formed in Brisbane the four-piece have built a fiercely independent momentum, with their debut album "Legal Speed" (2024) earning national airplay, critical acclaim, and a Queensland Album of the Year nomination. Their sophomore album "Wound Up" debuted at #2 on the ARIA Australian Albums Chart, marking a major breakthrough and driving another fully sold-out national tour. The band have achieved major streaming and editorial success with singles including “Scorching Heat”, “Golden Boy", "Moving" and "Daddy", while their breakout track “Tractor Parts” has recently surpassed one million streams. The band has even caught the attention of music tastemaker Derrick Gee who named Radium Dolls his “favourite band of the moment”. With their debut American tour ahead and SXSW appearances, Radium Dolls are poised to introduce North America to the next era of Australian rock.

Experiencing Sex Mask live is all gas, no brakes. The band’s artsy, electric fusion of proto-post-punk and writhing no-wave cool leaves little room for breathing space – and not least of all because shirtless frontman Wry Gray will often find himself directly within the immediate peripheral of anyone close to the front.

JASNO started as a typo on the first piece of music I ever released. Like many gay boys allergic to sincerity, my friends bullied me for it until the name stuck. Therapy wasn’t in my budget so I made up a whole new identity

Smooth Nature is a new age R&B group mixing old school and new school sounds of the full spectrum of R&B. Mixing Rock, soul, funk, blues, and jazz, Smooth Nature is bringing back a familiar yet new sound, to push love, healing, and peace with each song

The Bul Bey tells the authentic story of a Philadelphia native with a global perspective. A sharp-witted wordsmith with the optimism of a schoolteacher and the honesty of an Imam, his bouncy bars celebrate the bright sides of working-class life with the lexicon only a true Philly Bul could master.

Hailing from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Zoe Tan is Southeast Asia’s newest folk singer-songwriter to watch out for. Based in New York, she has played at iconic venues such as The Bitter End for the New York Songwriter’s Circle and S.O.B.’s for their international artist showcase. She has also opened foracclaimed artists such as Yuna, Lunadira and performed at music festivals such as Urbanscapes. Under Universal Music Malaysia, she has released her songs “Walk Out The Door”, “Distance, and “I Don’t Feel A Thing At All”, acquiring multiple global Spotify Editorial placements. Her debut EP, “I Will Never Go Back” will be coming out in March 2026. Zoe’s art is defined by its ability to honor the flavors of the Malaysian music scene, fuse them into the American music landscape, and to create music that you can hear, see, and feel with every fiber of your being.

Rapper Blakchyl's (formerly known as T-Fly) is a talented, community-minded wordsmith, having come up in the local hip hop community collaborating with music collectives, nonprofits and filmmakers. The queer artist has three European tours under her belt plus opening slots for Talib Kweli, Snow Tha Product, Jean Grae, Bizzy Bone and Scarface and her new album Better Than I Imagined (produced by The Mask), was accompanied by a short film and dropped in July. Always indefatigable, she recently landed a deal with Brighton, UK-based Tru Thought Records as well as an Austin Chronicle cover, was nominated for Best Hip Hop Artist, released an EP (Call Me Sometimes) and played a Waterloo Records in-store. It all comes down to her"powerful and effervescent songs" (CultureMap) and her love for the craft and it's community.

Rocky Banks is a Houston-based hip-hop artist recognized for his sharp lyricism, Southern-rooted production, and independent hustle. Emerging from Texas’ influential rap scene, he built a loyal following through consistent releases and authentic storytelling that reflects both street insight and entrepreneurial ambition.His catalog includes standout projects such as Trust in Banko, Big Little Brother, and the Mojo Tape Series, each showcasing his growth as both an artist and brand. To date, he has generated over 4 million streams across platforms, solidifying his position as a respected independent voice while continuing to expand his reach beyond the South.

Joe Harvey-Whyte is one of the most innovative and exciting pedal steel players around. He has worked with a diverse range of artists including Liam Gallagher & John Squire , James Vincent McMorrow, The Magic Numbers , Susanne Sundfør , Billy Bragg , Tony Visconti , Nilüfer Yanya , Jody Stephens , Bullion , Mozart Estate, Alabama 3, Young Jesus & many more.

With a Spellemann (norwegian Grammy) nomination for their debut album in hand, Sūn Byrd is ready to kick off the new campaign for the upcoming album In Paradiso, heavily inspired by American and British soul from the 60s and 70s.

Quanna is a Savannah-born, New York–based creative entrepreneur, artist, and cultural organizer, best known as the founder of CareFreeBlackGirl, a nationally recognized lifestyle brand celebrating Black femmes through music, community, and entrepreneurship. As a musician, Quanna has released multiple projects, including Q, Miss Thang, and her 2025 single “Rollin Up”, and plans to release more music in 2026. Her sound blends hip-hop, R&B, and alternative influences, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Over the last year, she has performed at major cultural events including SXSW, Charlotte Pride, Toronto Pride, Brooklyn Fashion Week, and more, consistently using her platform to amplify Black femme voices. At SXSW, Quanna continues to merge music, community advocacy, and cultural programming, creating space for creativity, connection, and visibility for Black women and femmes nationwide

Montréal’s Atsuko Chiba offer “pounding, angular rock” (BrooklynVegan), venturesomely crossing genre-defining borders with a cohesive and hypnotic blend of post-rock, progressive rock, and krautrock, weaving together a rich sonic tapestry that subverts through offbeat songwriting. In concert, they combine their unique brand of experimental rock with video and light installations triggered in real time by the band. While touring Canada, the United States, Europe, and the United Kingdom with their telepathic audiovisual tempest, the outfit have shared the stage with the likes of ...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead, Big Business, King Buffalo, and Duchess Says, also playing notable events such as Portals Festival, SXSW, and M for Montreal. Since 2013, they have released three full-length albums (Jinn, Trace, and Water, It Feels Like It’s Growing), two EPs (Figure and Ground and The Memory Empire), as well as a slew of singles. After offering booming tracks “Pope’s Cocaine” and “Climax Therapy” in the Summer of 2025, the five-piece unveil Atsuko Chiba on April 24th, 2026 via Mothland.

Based in Austin, Barb has quickly built a reputation for emotionally charged, genre-blurring releases and electrifying live performances. Her recent hometown show at ACL Live’s 3TEN sold out, with local outlets noting a packed room from the first song. Melodic Magazine, KUTX, Women That Rock, and grrrlmusic have praised her singles “til it bites” and “beside you (so boring)” for their explosive vocals and refined pop-rock sound.

Fuego Santo was born from the experience of living between cultures. After years of living in the United States as immigrants and deeply immersing themselves in American music especially country and folk traditions. We began to feel a growing longing for home and for the sounds that shaped our identity.

Bounce riffs in skinny jeans. Polyrhythms in Affliction shirts. breakdowns4breakdowns? :3

Jasmine makes swaying, folk-tinged acoustic pop songs with a full voice that teems with rich emotion. Her sonic palette makes sense when she describes the music she was most interested in growing up. “The earliest memories I have are of driving down to see my grandparents, and we listened to different music in the car on my dad’s iPod,” she recalls, “There’d be David Gray, Tracy Chapman, Dido, Gipsy Kings, The Eagles – old songs, classic albums. And I feel like they went into my psyche. I’m obsessed with any kind of acoustic, well-played guitar.”

Jeff Akoh is a Nigerian singer-songwriter whose soulful vocals and genre-blending sound sit at the crossroads of Afropop and R&B. He rose to prominence as the youngest winner of MTN Project Fame West Africa, marking the beginning of a steadily evolving music career.

Jovi Greene is an 18-year-old breakout country artist from Maryland with more than 7 million streams. He’s already opened for Jake Owen, Riley Green, Aaron Watson, Whiskey Myers, and more. Jovi has earned a loyal following through his cinematic, self-produced content and a performance style that turns first-time listeners into real fans.

Joyeria (pronounced Joy-ah-ree-ah) is a London-based outfit led by a Canadian-Polish songwriter who famously spent years quitting bands at their peak to keep his creative soul intact. Now a staple of London's underground scene, the group is a vehicle for "working in the dark"—a shape-shifting project that prizes sincerity over polish.

Powered on infectious hooks and eclectic (even, erratic) genre switch ups, Lil Asian Thiccie; Kuala Lumpur-based singer-rapper-songwriter-overall-Dope-Person, has earned a spot in the forefront of the Malaysian urban music scene.

Seductive, sharp, and unapologetically fearless, Loren Heat is a bold new force in UK pop. Emerging from Middlesbrough in the industrial heartland of north east England, Loren wasted no time making waves with their debut EP “Scarlet Haze”.

Desde que inició la pandemia no hemos parado de componer y escribir todas las diferentes sensaciones que a lo largo de nuestra visión hemos tenido que recorrer.

Mega Ran (Raheem Jarbo) is a GRAMMY-nominated rapper, author, and former middle school teacher whose career proves hip-hop has no boundaries. A pioneer of nerdcore, he blends sharp lyricism with education, storytelling, and pop culture — drawing inspiration from video games, comics, and professional wrestling.

Nashville-based singer-songwriter Nikki Gold grew up half country, half city—riding horses one day, chasing urban rhythms the next—and has lived across the U.S. and the UK. Her voice, part modern Joni Mitchell with a subtle Celtic bend, cuts with honesty that resonates.

Saint Avangeline is an Atlanta-based independent artist, merging ethereal sounds with raw, unfiltered vocals, crafting a striking contrast that mirrors the depths of human emotion. Deeply rooted in her journey with mental health, domestic abuse, & growing up queer, her songs offer an honest exploration of inner turmoil, rage, hope, & resilience. Growing up with her head in a sketchbook & performing in various orchestras, and jazz bands, combined with her unique sound-to-color synesthesia known as Chromesthesia, Avangeline focuses on writing and creating from a color palette. Music is like painting, every sound is a different texture, color, and form. She also often listens to music in languages she doesn't understand, are made up or distorted, or that contain no words at all. She found that she could focus more deeply on the emotion embedded within the sound and she would often memorize entire orchestral scores and video game soundtracks as a child. Focusing on painting an image not only through words but through the very fiber of sound, her music strives to transcend the barriers of language and strike hearts in the way hers was.

Semisoft is a dreamy post-grunge trio hailing from Tacoma, Washington. Blending spacey, hypnotic textures with explosive riff-driven energy, their sound lands somewhere between Fuzz, PJ Harvey, and Natural Child. Following the release of their Greenway Records debut 7", the band is preparing to unveil their second EP on Den Tapes, the Seattle-based cassette label and community founded by Kay Redden. Looking ahead, Semisoft’s long-awaited full-length album is slated for release next year.

Atlanta-based artist Spencer Thomas returns with Cynical Vision, his third and most incisive album yet, out March 20, 2026. Wry and sardonic, the record balances humor and existential dread, blending retro synths, vintage drum machines, and fuzzed-out guitars into an intoxicating mix of analog and electronic sounds. Nods to Randy Newman, Lou Reed, Warren Zevon, and Tom Petty shine through as Thomas holds a mirror to modern life, delivering a whip-smart meditation on the absurdity and beauty of living and loving in the 21st century.

Whitney Mongé is a Nashville-based Americana Soul singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her smoky, commanding vocals and emotionally direct songwriting. Raised in the Pacific Northwest by a blues-singing mother, she spent nearly a decade honing her craft as a street performer in Seattle, learning how to command a crowd with just a voice and a guitar. Her sound blends the grit of rhythm and blues with the edge of alternative rock and the introspection of indie folk. Whitney has released three EPs—Steadfast, Stone, and Carry On—and a live album with the Seattle Symphony. A 2025 Cayamo Soundcheck Contest winner and Arium Sounds of Summer finalist, she continues to tour nationally while working on her debut full-length album. Onstage, Whitney delivers a dynamic, soul-stirring performance that feels both intimate and electrifying.

Girl Tones, of planet Earth, are a high-energy rock duo brought to life by two sisters named Kenzie and Laila. Both classically trained musicians, Kenzie transitioned from cello to guitar and Laila from piano to drums in an effort to electrify sentient beings from this galaxy to the next. Their debut releases were produced by Brad Shultz of Cage The Elephant and released via his label Parallel Vision in partnership with Big Loud Rock.Their first offerings have earned the praise of Rolling Stone, VICE, Consequence, PAPER, NME, DORK and many others with Flaunt saying, “Their sound is fluid, and yet with each release, they evolve as a harmonious group, developing their unique sound as one.”Girl Tones has toured with Cage The Elephant across the globe, as well as The Velveteers, hey, nothing. and Silversun Pickups in North America. Making their unignorable festival debut at Lollapalooza, Shaky Knees, Austin City Limits and more, Rolling Stone said, “While the White Stripes — their most obvious comparison — were about controlled energy, Girl Tones are proudly imperfect.”As the band jumps into 2026, they have no shortage of new music and new tour dates up their sleeves.

Sir Eddie C is designing the next era of hip-hop from the middle of America.

0 Miles Per Hour is a loud, fuzzy, in your face rock band hailing from Orlando Florida. The group has just released their most recent project "Gallop" through Chicago-based label New Morality Zine. The EP captures the band in a moment of clarity and growth. Across five songs they channel the energy of alternative rock through a hazy, melodic lens. "Gallop" represents 0 Miles Per Hour’s most confident and fully realized work to date.

Andy Arthur Smith is a singer, songwriter, and internet force of nature with 5.1M followers on TikTok (100M+ likes) and 1.1M on Instagram. Often described as “Jim Carrey meets Jacob Collier,” he combines elastic, absurd humor with mind-blowing musical ability by delivering powerhouse vocals, tight harmonies, and genre-jumping arrangements that feel as hilarious as they are impressive.

Mark Brown is a very versatile artist with a sound of his own blending raw passion with infectious beats. He makes bold calculated decisions with his approach on every record that usually leaves listeners in awe. Born and raised on the Nawfside of Houston, Tx, gave Mark Brown his grit and determination. He was inspired by his older brother’s which lead him down the path of rapping. With a mix of pain, motivation, and complexed catchy hooks, Mark Brown creates music that resonates with both the streets and the mainstream. With new music dropping monthly and a growing fanbase, Mark Brown is poised to kill the game!

Vintage Jay hailing from off Rundberg Ln in Austin’s gritty, very culturally diverse Northside. Austin based rapper and DJ has risen up to speak for a section of Austin that has rarely had a voice. Blending tales from the streets with very poignant bars of consciousness and social reform. Vintage Jay was featured on KUTX radio September Artist of the month and KUTX Summer Jam. Making him an official NPR Session artist. The city of Austin has also given Jay his official proclamation date September 12th. From producing cultural and musical events to as well expressing his life through music. Jay has become an individual of many traits, his latest album Still I Rise, speaks of a new age of creativity and musical expression to the ear. His growth in his music is something that appears in every album, and one thing that never changes is that he stays true to himself and the craft. Jay has become a true tastemaker and one of the biggest Latino figures in Austin, TX. To represent the Latino culture with pride and honor is something Jay has done since day 1.

Hip-hop artist’s from the north side of Milwaukee who grew up on the sounds of Soulful Midwest rap. Separately they put out a steady stream of music over the last 5 years and have performed at various music festivals including Summerfest, Mile of music, and SXSW. Recently they’ve come together to form a duo ahead of their new project in the works for 2026.

Ali Almighty, born Aaliyah Ashante White, is a rising rapper from Greenville, TX, proudly known as the "Queen of da 903." Her music blends Southern rap with contemporary sounds, creating a unique and captivating style that resonates with a diverse audience. Her latest album, *EA$T TX $HAWTY*, showcases her lyrical talent and storytelling, offering authentic narratives rooted in her experiences. With compelling beats and insightful lyrics, she is quickly gaining recognition in the rap community. Beyond music, Ali Almighty actively engages with her growing fanbase on social media, sharing her journey and connecting with supporters. Her strong online presence has helped build a dedicated following eager for her next move. Inspired daily by her family, Ali Almighty is a testament to resilience—never willing to give up or give in. Focused on making a lasting impact, she continues pushing boundaries, representing her East Texas roots with powerful and authentic music.

Pierce Washington is an award-winning hip-hop artist from Dallas, Texas, whose sound bridges jazz influences, live instrumentation, and modern production — creating music that feels both timeless and forward-thinking. Known for his cinematic storytelling and commanding stage presence, Pierce has emerged as one of the leading voices in Dallas hip-hop. His collaborations with legendary producer Madlib and rap icon Lil Wayne showcase his versatility and creative range. Fresh off headlining The Proof of Concept and Folktales tours, Pierce continues to push artistic boundaries through his innovative approach to music, visuals, and brand artistry.

Hailing from Long Beach, California, Q THA HERO is an alternative rapper driven by authenticity and fearless individuality. He began making music at 13, building a foundation of raw songwriting and expressive delivery that’s become his signature. Drawing inspiration from superheroes, film, and pop culture, his music feels both personal and cinematic—balancing real emotion with larger-than-life energy. Now based on the East Coast, Q THA HERO continues to evolve while holding onto the grit and character of his West Coast roots. Bold, unfiltered, and unapologetically himself, he’s carving out a lane that’s impossible to ignore

Ras Mundi is an international reggae band from Austin, TX that incorporates elements of hip-hop and rock & roll creating a conscious message of culture and unity. Up from humble roots, Ras Mundi currently consists of nine members working together to create a massive sound to heal the soul and the nation. Their sound resonates vocal harmonies, heavy percussion, melodic keys, thick baselines, and trumpet… with lyrics chanting down the Babylon System and resurrecting the movement of Jah people!

World's 579th-greatest rapper. Progenitor of nerdcore hip-hop and still that subgenre's Final Boss. Celebrating year 20 on tour.

KOJ is the sound of defiance rising from Liverpool, UK: a working-class voice turned outward, loud enough to cut through the noise, resilient enough to remain unshaken, and connected enough to represent a frustrated generation.

One of France’s most distinctive a cappella acts, Les Itinérantes turn three voices into an immersive, ritual-like live experience.

Dubbed “UK music’s best kept secret” (Clash UK), drummer and producer Mackwood is rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting voices in the new wave of UK jazz and beyond. Cutting his teeth with Col3trane, Jim Legacy and ELIZA, and coming up through crossover projects like Silhouettes Project and Levitation Orchestra, Mackwood has carved out a distinctive niche between progressive jazz, beatmaking and alternative dancefloor rhythms. His sound fuses the pedigree of UK and international jazz with London’s new generation of player-producers, continuing the UK’s celebrated tradition of boundary-breaking crossover.

Mariae Cassandra is an Australian singer songwriter from Perth, Western Australia, rapidly emerging as one of the country’s most compelling new voices. First capturing attention through her online songwriting videos and viral moments across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, Mariae’s ability to pair intimate storytelling with hook driven pop has resonated with a growing global audience.

Blending together the sounds of indie pop and folk melodies, Bea Porges lives in her own lyrical world. Throughout the years, the 25 year old singer songwriter has been working her way through the scenes of Atlanta and Athens, GA, and billing with touring acts such as hey, nothing, Infinity Songs, and Trash Panda. Her songwriting has a penchant for detail and wit, creating images that feel simultaneously personal and nostalgic.

Keira Vana is a rising dark-pop artist turning heads with her recent singles Aftertaste and Medicine. Known for sharp, emotional storytelling and a sound that’s both haunting and addictive, she blends confidence and vulnerability into music that stays with you.

Rock n’ Roll will never be a lazy game. PONS is here to set the record straight.

Suck Brick Kid is a hook-heavy pop-punk band built on big riffs, bigger choruses, and just enough self-awareness to keep it dangerous. For over a decade, they’ve balanced earnest, heart-on-sleeve energy with sharp, tongue-in-cheek lyricism—turning existential spirals and dive-bar observations into shout-along anthems. Their releases are tight, punchy, and conceptually driven, walking the line between chaos and craft. Known for sweaty, cathartic live shows that feel equal parts therapy session and house party, the band thrives in rooms where volume and vulnerability coexist. Suck Brick Kid isn’t trying to reinvent punk—just to play it loud, honest, and impossible to ignore.

LA alternative indie rock quartet Fime released their debut LP “Sweeter Memory” in 2022. Working with producer Melina Duterte from Jay Som, they infused their garage rock sound with shoegaze, ethereal and gauzy vocals and distorted, reverb laden guitar melodies. Fime is set to release there second album “Just Can’t Win” in September 2025.

Novul is a Canadian-born, Los Angeles-ased pop artist creating high-energy emotionally raw music rooted in controllec chaos. Blending alt-pop instincts with distorted textures, breathless vocals, and confrontational hooks, her sound captures spiraling confidence and unfiltered self-awareness in real time. A trained dancer and dynamic performersince age 4, Novul was named by Grammy-winning producer Poet Name Life (The Black Eyed Peas). She recently completed a North American run supporting pop icons AQUA on the Barbie World Tour, bringing her explosive live performance to major markets across the continent. Her EP BLK RNBW earned six editorial placements across Spotify and Apple Music, plus national radio support on SiriusXM Hits 1 HitBound. With Vevo artist spotlight recognition across the US, Spain, France, and UK, her latest single Bad Things continues building momentum heading into 2026.

AKA BK is an alternative indie project based in Los Angeles. With influences from bands like The Pixies, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and the Breeders, their live show plays like nerves exposed: charged, joyful and disarmingly human, turning their vulnerability into sharpened momentum. The band closes the distance between their fans, both literally and figuratively, inviting them to join in on their tongue-in-cheek moments of mushy playfulness and feverish moshing.

Anastasia Hera is a rap artist and songwriter blending sharp lyricism, bold storytelling, and magnetic stage presence. Her music turns lived experience into incisive, emotionally resonant songs that explore identity, resilience, and power with clarity and edge. Rooted in authenticity and driven by artistic intention, Anastasia Hera is emerging as a distinctive voice shaping the next wave of independent hip-hop.

Chuck Prophet’s streak of more than a dozen critically acclaimed solo records stretches all the way back to 1990, when the California native first shifted focus from his tenure with pioneering neo-psych band Green on Red to working under his own name. Since then, his songs have appeared in a slew of films and television shows, and his work has been covered by Bruce Springsteen, Solomon Burke, Heart, and a host of others. Rolling Stone dubbed him a “streetwise city kid with an eye for the country,” while Uncut proclaimed him a “renaissance-rocker,” and NPR declared that “no one can turn tales from the outer limits into catchy songs quite like Prophet does.”

Tight, catchy, succinct, and loud are the best words for Commercial Breaks. Formed in 2025 by a gaggle of rockers and co-conspirators, the group features Lucas Martins, Trey Gutierrez and David Rawlinson, all of whom back Gus Baldwin as “The Sketch” as well as Doran Rawlinson, former drummer of Nolan Potter’s Nightmare Band. The members have performed around Austin for many years but never in such a hook-driven, song-forward capacity. Their debut record out Q4 2025 was recorded entirely at home to cassette tape to ensure absolute commercial viability, and their live shows pursue the title of either Austin’s “Loudest Pop Group” or “Pop-est Loud Group”.

congratulations are a hall of mirrors party troop. they are devils and tarts in equal measure. they lock their horns and then spin round and round and round until dizzy cacophony erupts. sugarcane hooks vs. slaughterhouse screams. taut, fizzing guitars & caustic electronics nipping at the heels of huge fuzz bass & booming percussive grooves. leah is the green one. jamie is dressed in blue. greg’s red, james is yellow. they’re here to move you.

Differentchris is a first generation born and raised Houston based indie artist. His music balances vulnerability and confidence, pairing catchy melodies with introspective themes that explore identity, relationships, and personal growth.

Greyson Turner has a soul older than his twenty-seven years of age would tell you. As a singer/songwriter in Austin, TX, he has made waves in the Austin music scene since arriving in 2021. Combining a powerful, old-school, gravel-laden voice with emotion invoking, heart-hitting songwriting, Greyson has been wowing audiences with just his voice and his guitar since he was a kid.

egüs Fresh is an American artist, creative influencer, real estate investor, and entrepreneur born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. Once a full-time basketball player, Fresh stepped into music in 2017 after facing life-altering challenges that reshaped his path. Committed to protecting his mental health and purpose, he began creating storytelling-driven rap rooted in real-life experiences — what he calls his personal journal entries.

"Poetic License" follows Liz a former therapist and soon-to-be empty nester, who relocates to a new town for her husband’s job – a place where she doesn’t know a soul. Her quiet attempt to settle in takes an unexpected turn when she becomes the point of tension between two inseparable best friends and college seniors, Sam and Ari. As their fierce competition for her attention threatens to upend their lives, Liz is pulled into a tangle of longing, self-discovery, and the intoxicating thrill of being truly seen – forcing her to confront the life she’s built and the one she still craves.

promqueen is a queer second generation Vietnamese American Pop/Rap Artist based in Austin. Signed under mHart - Texas’ first and only Asian American music label - promqueen operates between Music, Storytelling, Community, and Identity, combining both Vietnamese and English lyrics in her songs and visuals. 2026 will feature the release of her third album, “szn three,” as well as the inaugural MODERN event: a music and fashion festival celebrating Vietnamese American lifestyle taking place in Austin in August.

Hailing from Washington, D.C., Prowess The Testament is a commanding force in hip-hop, blending intricate storytelling, spiritual depth, and masterful lyricism into a singular artistic voice. With a career rooted in authenticity, she has shared stages with Wu-Tang Clan, Jay Electronica, Citizen Cope, Skyzoo, and Sufjan Stevens. Her moniker, bestowed by elder statesman KRS-One after a standout performance during Hip Hop Appreciation Week, reflects her exceptional dedication to craft and culture.

SRI is a Brooklyn-based DJ, producer, and artist crafting futuristic club music through a South Asian lens. Known for percussive, high-energy sets and hypnotic vocals, she builds immersive worlds that feel both cinematic and visceral.

Emerging from the heart of New York City’s underground music scene, Stare Away is the brainchild of Ben Nelson, a project that fuses post-punk intensity with a retro-coded aesthetic inspired by the dark alternative icons of the 1980s. Haunting melodies and brooding soundscapes channel the spirit of goth-driven acts from that era, offering a sonic journey steeped in existential reflection and melancholic beauty. A true embodiment of modern dark romanticism, Stare Away continues to captivate audiences seeking meaning in the shadows.

Swapmeet are an Adelaide/Kaurna Country based four piece who are set to release their debut album in 2026. With indie rock foundations, characterised by sonic experimentation, and a punk spirit, Swapmeet are known in the local and international circuit for their playful, chaotic onstage presence.

"The Oldest Person in the World" is a decade-long global journey that chronicles the ever-changing record holders of the title of oldest person alive. What begins as a portrait of longevity becomes a meditation on the passage of time, the randomness of fate, and the joy and profound human experience of being alive.

“Whether I’m welcome or not” raps Bijaan on the opening bar of his debut single, “Jungle”, a line that immediately sets the tone for an artist unafraid to claim his space. Bijaan is a Calgary-based MC whose artistry bridges contents and cultures and has already captured the attention of major DSPs, key industry festivals, and fellow hip-hop artists and producers. Canadian born, with roots in East Africa and India, he brings a distinctly global perspective to hip-hop. Produced by the Polaris Prize-nominated hip-hop heavyweight Producer, Junia-T, “Jungle” is a bold exploration of identity, unapologetic self-belief, and belonging, anchored by Bijaan’s sharp lyricism and a unique, commanding delivery. From releasing mixtapes in high school, all the way to performing at major Canadian festivals and showcases such as NXNE, The JUNOs, Sled Island, Do It For The Culture, and Aurorapalooza, Bijaan has carved out his place as a rising voice in Canada’s hip-hop scene. Blending introspection with bravado, while taking inspiration from his varied cultural roots, he stands at the forefront of a new generation of artists redefining what it means to be global in hip-hop.

DAMOYEE is a genre-fusing artist, musician, composer, and producer whose career began as a young teen performing in Deep Ellum, self-releasing her first album at 16, landing stages at New Orleans Jazz Fest and Gov Ball, and composing an original score for AT&T, all while still in high school. She has parlayed her inherent talent into hundreds of thousands of supporters, industry placements with DC The Don and 2x RIAA diamond-certified artist Bryson Tiller, and partnered with brands such as Meta, Coca-Cola, Cartoon Network, FX x Hulu, Walgreens, and Roland.

Stockz is a Houston-based artist and entrepreneur redefining what modern hip-hop can represent. Operating at the intersection of music, finance, and education, he transforms real-world experiences—risk, discipline, ownership, and long-term vision—into sharp, motivational records that resonate both on stage and off.

Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Trim’s journey into music began after an unexpected exit from Division I football and college. What started as freestyling with friends during downtime evolved into a serious pursuit once his raw ability stood out, leading him to record music on BandLab. Early releases gained traction through TikTok music reviews, earning co-signs from Sonny Digital, Ray Daniels, and DJ Plugg —momentum that culminated in the release of his breakout single, Down the Pole.

Since his 2016 debut album Primitives, Bayonne has channeled his vast imagination into an elegant yet wildly experimental form of electronic pop, equal parts meditative and mesmerizing. In the making of his latest body of work, the Austin-based artist/producer/multi-instrumentalist otherwise known as Roger Sellers found himself in even greater need of an outlet for his kinetic creative impulses, thanks to an intense convergence of events in his personal life: his father’s diagnosis with and eventual death from cancer, the end of a significant relationship, and an overwhelming struggle with depression and anxiety. Deeply informed by a deliberate transformation of his musical process, Bayonne’s third full-length Temporary Time ultimately makes for his most expansive work to date—an album of both painfully raw introspection and otherworldly beauty.

On their debut EP ‘The Weight,’ the Lafayette, Louisiana, four-piece reaches full definition, distilling themes of desire, insecurity, and disconnection into five tightly wound, melody-driven songs released by Julia’s War Recordings, the legendary Philly label founded by Doug Dulgarian of TAGABOW. Across the EP, bandleader Kylie Gaspard’s deeply direct vocal delivery cuts through dense riffs, grounding their songs with her gritty, emotional lyrics. Having recently shared stages with genre titans like Dinosaur Jr., Whirr, Nothing, and Narrow Head, Cashier are building a reputation for a massive sound that resonates far beyond their bayou home.

Set in Mexico City, Fifteen reimagines the iconic quinceañera as a chaotic mix of comedy and creature horror. Through Mayte and Ligia’s unbreakable bond, the film explores class divides, the illusions of adolescence, and the fear of growing up—wrapped in kitsch aesthetics, blood-soaked humor, and biting social critique.

After a couple’s baby boy is taken, the desperate mother learns of a way to bring him back. However, her husband begins to suspect that what she returned with isn't their son.

Cedric Brazle (pronounced bruh-zil) is a multi-talented R&B artist, entertainer, and songwriter who discovered his love for music early on, inspired by legends like Michael Jackson, Donny Hathaway, Brandy, John Mayer, and Usher. Since then, he’s worked tirelessly to develop his unique sound and voice, collaborating with both emerging and established musicians and producers. He’s also shared stages with artists like Kenyon Dixon, Layton Greene, Josh LevI, Mario, Johnny Gill among others.

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Jaylon Ashaun is a nomad redefining what it means to connect through music. Inspired by the places he travels and the people he meets along the way, he blends soulful R&B, hip-hop, and pop into songs that capture raw emotions and real moments, music for anyone navigating the beautiful, messy journey of life.

"A voice that stops you in your tracks" – BBC Radio 1

Pat G is an American rapper based in Austin, Texas, bringing a refreshing, purpose-driven voice to modern hip-hop. Known for his infectious energy and uplifting message, he creates family-friendly music that still hits hard—blending motivation, faith, and elite lyricism into every performance.

ASHMAR. is a dynamic DJ and tastemaker whose sets pulse with an infectious love for house, hip-hop, and kudoro sounds. Known for seamless blends and unexpected transitions, he builds dancefloor journeys that honor underground roots while pushing listeners into new sonic territory.

Atlanta based musician, Elijah Johnston, will release a brand new album, Stupid Soul, via Strolling Bones Records on June 20, 2025.

Mark Cooper is a multi-disciplinary Rapper and Producer, carrying the torch of Nerdcore from Detroit, Michigan. His branded work consists of a large body of verses and cyphers touching on all things considered “Nerdy” or from Gaming Culture, including references from but not limited to Gaming Systems of all brands, Transformers, Power Rangers, Halo, Naruto, and Tron, earning the perfect branding of “nostalgic.”

With combined streams of over 100 million and a dedicated online following, Morgan is doing things her way. Morgan began performing at just three years old and by eighteen she’d joined Rudimental as a globally-touring vocalist. Her solo debut ‘My Year’ spotlit her brand of sparkling pop, before a collaboration with Ebenezer (‘Mulholland Drive’) earned her over 10 million streams. Her subsequent EP ‘Alien’ referenced golden-era pop. That same year, ‘ADCT’ (written when she was 17) soared to the #1 spot on both TikTok Trending Sounds and the UK Top 50, earning over 30 million streams. Morgan also co-wrote and featured on Rudimental & Digga D’s ‘Be the One’, Sigma’s ‘Adrenaline Rush’ and Purple Disco Machine's most recent album. She’s been writing for some of the biggest K-pop artists (including NCT’s Jaehyun, TWICE & Aespa).

In 2010, reports began surfacing of a masked vigilante in a black-and-gold supersuit stopping crime on the streets of Seattle. His name is Phoenix Jones. Armed with pepper spray, a taser, and a team of costumed crime fighters, he quickly becomes an international media sensation. But when his true identity is exposed by the Seattle Police, the heroic image begins to unravel and his team abandons him. Ten years later, as protesters seize six blocks of Seattle and declare a no cop zone, Phoenix reemerges amid legal trouble and public skepticism. Is he a hero, or a con-artist hiding behind a mask?

RAKEL is an Icelandic artist working in song, memory, and atmosphere. Her music folds together voice, field recording, and emotion into layered compositions that feel intimate and expansive. She has become a quietly singular presence in the Icelandic music landscape, performing with artists like Nanna (Of Monsters and Men), Axel Flóvent, and Kaktus Einarsson. Her debut album - a place to be - was released on Ólafur Arnalds’ OPIA Community in October 2025 and garnered widespread acclaim from top Icelandic and global media alikel, with The Line of Best Fit calling her “Iceland’s next breakout star” and writeups in Billboard, Exclaim!, SPIN, London Standard and more. She dominated the Iceland Airwaves festival in November 2025, with the festival awarding her the prestigious “PLUS Award”, granted to one artist each year that is ready to take over the world.

It's make or break time for Ben Garza as he embarks on his solo first tour after the collapse of his band. By his side are Rita, his former tour manager stepping away from her stable life to help him, and Parker, a remaining bandmate who joins Ben as a utility player. However, Rita also secures Jessie Ramos as the opening act, a rising star whose sudden surge in popularity will completely destabilize Ben. Throughout this musical odyssey, Ben will face characters on the road who challenge his ideas of success, relevance, and purpose. Some encounters offer hope; others deepen his doubt. By the tour’s end, Ben must decide whether to keep chasing the life he once had—or chart a new path forward.

The amalgamation of four distinct voices from Adelaide, The Tullamarines tell their stories through a shared perspective that feels intimate, honest, and quietly uplifting. Josh, Angus, Benny and Lucinda met on the local gig circuit, quickly bonding over a mutual love of songwriting and collaboration. From those early connections, they’ve crafted a sound that reflects each member’s individual sensibilities - a style they affectionately call cosy-pop. Their songs move through life’s highs and lows with the warmth of an old friend, inviting listeners into their living room, putting the kettle on, and sitting with whatever feeling the day brings. That sense of closeness runs through both their recorded work and their live shows. Having appeared on festival line-ups including Beyond The Valley, Laneway Festival, Spin Off Festival and New Year’s Eve on the Hill, and toured extensively alongside artists such as Old Mervs, The Preatures, Ball Park Music and Alex Lahey, The Tullamarines continue to build a reputation for heartfelt songwriting and deeply human performances.

"They Will Kill You" unleashes a blood-soaked, high-octane horror-action-comedy in which a young woman must survive the night at the Virgil, a demonic cult's mysterious and twisted death-trap of a lair, before becoming their next offering in a uniquely brazen, big screen battle of epic kills and wickedly dark humor.

In 2019 vocalist Jesse Barnett (Stick to Your Guns) partnered with Sergie Loobkoff (Samiam /Knapsack) and drummerJared Shavelson(Joyce Manor / Hope Conspiracy)aiming to pen the perfect melodic post-punk/hardcore song. This resulted in their debut ‘self-titled’ album in July2020 produced by Beau Burchell (Saosin).In October they released a theme song for the water companyLiquid Deathfollowed by thesingles, ‘Working Class Suicide Pact’ and ‘And For A Moment I Don’t Wanna Die’ (appearing on a split 7” withIron Chicin 2022.) In 2022 with the release of their sophomore album, ‘Torch Songs’, (again helmed byBurchell),supported by successfull european tour and appearances at festivals such as Jera on Air (NL),Vainstream (DE),2000 Trees (UK),Full Force (DE),Fest (Gainesville),Pouzza (Montreal) andnumerous shows on both coasts. In 2023 they added Samiam bassistChad Darbyand wereincluded in theDrive Like Jehumemorial compilation withThrice, Spartaand more.Their 3rd album, ‘I’m Not You’, again produced by Burchell will be released May 19, 2025 on their own label and features guest vocals by Chuck Ragan (Hot Water Music),Ingo Knollman,(Donots) aandEric Egan (Heart Attack Man).

Ashoka is a first-generation American artist, songwriter, and creative director from Queens, NY - by way of Dominica - whose music bridges motivation, self-reflection, and style. Raised in Rockland County and now based in Los Angeles, Ashoka blends sharp lyricism with melodic storytelling, crafting songs that speak to ambition, self-belief, and personal evolution.

The Irrepressibles is the project of Jamie Irrepressible, composer, vocalist, producer, and visual conceptualist known for emotional performance and genre-blurring sound. A defining voice in queer art pop and alternative performance, Jamie blends classical beauty, alt-pop experimentation, and bold visual concepts.

Anton The Artist is a rising independent recording artist known for his dynamic versatility, polished delivery, and undeniable stage presence. Blending melodic flows with sharp lyricism, Anton creates music that bridges raw authenticity with mainstream appeal. His sound pulls from hip-hop, R&B influences, and contemporary trap elements, allowing him to craft records that feel both personal and high-energy.

A film that everyone is talking about, and audiences need another chance to see it.

Morgan Janay is a rising R&B/hip-hop artist whose journey is as powerful as her voice. Once nonverbal and diagnosed with autism at a young age, she has transformed adversity into artistry — using music as both expression and empowerment. Her story of growth and resilience fuels the passion behind every record she creates.

Wendy's life is thrown into chaos when her boyfriend, Jack, who is older and divorced with children, insists they take space to evaluate the relationship. During their break, Wendy unexpectedly runs into her ex, Chuck, forcing the three of them into a confusing and volatile triangle. The film was shot on 35mm on location in Alaska.

An artist at the crossroads of country and hip-hop, Shai Gabriel creates the kind of songs that feel as epic as a movie: gripping, unpredictable, immense in scope but rooted in raw emotion. On his journey, the Texas-bred singer/songwriter charts a cinematic road trip through the wilds of the American South, bringing a powerful new depth to his storytelling while pushing further into the country/folk-inspired sound he's explored in recent years. Drawing inspirations from Country, Pop, Hip Hop and Gospel he creates a dynamic sound that captures the hearts of fans.

A woman inherits her childhood home, seeking solace from a chaotic city life marked by addiction and debt. Unbeknownst to her, a psychotic neighbor becomes disturbingly obsessed with her due to a haunting resemblance to the neighbor’s deceased mother. As the fixation turns violent, her friends begin disappearing one by one, drawing her into a perverted, blood-soaked Christmas nightmare she may not survive.

A film that everyone is talking about, and audiences need another chance to see it.

Swamp funk. Psychedelic soul.Global rhythms + deep improvisation

Hi Austin! I’m DJ Anupi, an Austin local with over 12 years in the music scene. My passion for DJing began in high school, driven by a desire to blend beats from the East and West and bring the best of both worlds together. Growing up listening to mostly Bollywood/South Asian music, I gravitated toward fusing global sounds with western styles. I started by creating mashups and quickly discovered my love for bringing people together and creating memories on the dance floor. What began as DJing high school dances soon evolved into spinning downtown on 6th Street, and eventually launching my own sound and events company. Through this journey, I’ve DJed everything from weddings and corporate events to large-scale public parties across Texas and the U.S. Running my events company gave me the opportunity to experience music from many cultures and styles around the world, further shaping my identity as a fusion DJ. Today, my style blends global rhythms and modern beats designed to move crowds and create memories. Recently, I’ve also stepped into music production, crafting remixes that I’m excited to start sharing on SoundCloud.
Looking forward to SXSW 2026! See you on the dance floor!

The Inland Empire can either suffocate you or make you work even harder. For the past 10 years, Manuel Joseph Walker’s prolific output as Foliage has helped him become a widely recognized figurehead in modern Shoegaze. A chameleonic producer, Walker draws from the broader palettes of Post-Punk while slyly incorporating textures and ideas from Hip-Hop and Electronic records, revealing ephemeral but lasting impressions that feel simultaneously intimate and ritualistic, something you can listen to in your headphones late at night or shout along with a cold lager in your hand. His song “It’s Time” has been featured in nearly 19K TikToks from brands such as Le Creuset, F1, & Netflix.

Future Nobodies is a genre-bending trio from Chicago, IL. Influenced by the 2000’s NYC indie scene as well as 1980’s post-punk and new wave, the band has developed a nostalgic, emotionally charged sound that is solely their own. Often described as “sad happy music to dance to,” the trio croon like Morrissey over bass heavy melodies and crying guitar licks.The band released their first album in 2021 (Hotel Del La Muerte) as an online project that gained immediate traction. In 2022 they released their Over it/Apasionada EP. “Over It” was placed on an official Spotify playlist causing the song to reach over a million streams and gain the band over 50K monthly listeners overnight. In 2023 they performed at Riot Fest. The line up included acts such as Death Cab For Cutie, Queens of the Stoneage, and The Cure. In 2024 they released their self-titled sophomore album, Future Nobodies. The album was picked up and distributed by Young & Cold Records. With the record labels help, the band made their European debut at Germany’s annual Wave Gotik Treffen Festival. Since then, the band has gained underground popularity and is currently touring cities across the U.S.

Mexican singer and songwriter. Karina Galicia explores her context and surroundings through pop and R&B soundscapes.Her body of work includes her debut album “Cancionero del Nuevo Milenio” released in 2020, which portrays human fragility and an EP titled “Las Sangres”,that narrates the stories of six Mexican women whose lives were shaped by violence.In 2024, Karina Galicia signed as a songwriter with Sony Music Publishing. In April 2025, Karina released her second album “Mudanzas” under the label Discos Licenciado by Warner Music. Mudanzas offers a unique and thrilling sonic experience, taking the best of R&B elevating it through fusions of pop and folk. Mudanzas is an album of many facets: emotional,sorrowful, introspective, and above all, filled with love and growth, “I wanted to portray the hope of becoming a better version of myself.My body is a house—my house—and I’m willing to inhabit and break it down as many times as needed.”Her most notable performances include:Festival Internacional Cumbre Tajín – 2019, VeracruzFestival Noche de Primavera – 2021, Mexico CityFESTIVAL HERA HSBC – 2024, Mexico CityFESTIVAL SINERGIA – 2024, Mexico CityHOUSE OF VANS – 2024, Mexico City

Keetheweeb is an anonymous female singer known for her eclectic blend of genres, including Pop, Cinematic, and Nerdcore. Hailing from Louisiana, she burst onto the scene with her unique sound, captivating audiences with heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies. She is widely known for her anime inspired tracks like “Mastermind” (Ayanokoji) and “Bomb” (Reze).

Mae Muller is one of Britain’s most dynamic and boundary-pushing pop artists. With a voice forged through honesty and raw emotion, Mae has become an authentic voice for a generation, fearless in her vulnerability, unapologetic in her expression, and unafraid to tell it like it is.

Magic Rockers of Texas are a punchy power-pop rock band from Austin, TX, delivering gritty hooks and high-energy live shows rooted in catchy songwriting and garage-infused rock & roll. Led by charismatic singer Jim Campo, the group features Will Grover on guitar, Chris Kues on guitar & synth, Pat Ford on bass, and McGarrity Stanley on drums. Since forming in the mid-2010s, they’ve become local favorites, known for infectious riffs, spirited performances across Austin’s venues, and releases like the album Gorging on American Fare and singles such as “Houston” and "Words in a Bin." Blending melodic pop sensibilities with raw, fast-paced rock, Magic Rockers of Texas embody the vibrant independent music spirit of their hometown.

Nicotine is a passionate artist whose music journey is deeply intertwined with personal growth, self-discovery, and spiritual exploration. Fusing elements of alternative hip-hop, soul, R&B, jazz, rock, and funk, she creates a sound that is uniquely her own. In 2019, just three years after her first album release, she created her band "Nicotine & The Warmtones". With this new team of instrumentalists and vocalists, she toured with and opened up for artists such as: The Marias, Yuna, SALES, Justin Nozuka, and more. She is set to release her highly anticipated second album "EDOGHU", (produced by Adrian Quesada), in the year of 2026.

A grieving Chinese and Vietnamese American family move to an isolated house in a new town. Eight-year-old Gracie, silent since the death of her beloved father, begins to interact with a dark presence in the woods behind their new home. Her mother, Emily, struggles to hide her suffocating grief, cutting her off from Gracie and her mother-in-law, Nai Nai. When Gracie is taken by the dark presence, her family has to confront the ghosts of the past and their shared trauma to find her. The story intertwines historical events from the 1885 massacre of Chinese coal miners with present-day supernatural elements, culminating in a poignant exploration of loss, memory, and reconciliation with the past.

Born & brewed in Wisconsin, Social Cig is the 'Indie-Skate-Rock' music project of Filipino American, Parker Schultz. Consisting of contagious authenticity, cheery live shows, and cultivating an original story with an attitude of gratitude, Social Cig is creating full-circle moments. Leafing through global music scenes with an ambitious DIY approach and writing songs that capture a genuine outlook from a modern-day Midwest cowboy, Social Cig has become a well-rounded grassroots venture.

Iyla is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter who blends soul, jazz, r&b, and pop into her music. Her stage name, which means "moonlight", reflects her night owl tendencies and ends in "L.A.", a nod to her hometown.

Villain Park is a Los Angeles-based hip-hop duo known for their sharp lyricism, cinematic production, and raw, unfiltered energy. Blending West Coast grit with modern underground sensibilities, the group has built a loyal following through relentless releases and electrifying live performances. With a sound that’s both nostalgic and forward-thinking, Villain Park continues to carve their own lane in independent hip-hop.

Carroll’s worldview is dominated by the threat of catastrophe and the decline of morality in the face of human extinction. Then he steps on a rusty nail. He stumbles through the modern world, searching for romance, shedding toxic friendships, and fighting for truth... all while struggling to maintain his deteriorating health and sanity. As his moral crusade edges closer to self-destruction, Carroll is confronted with the ultimate existential question: are we really doomed, or is he just dying of tetanus?

Chalk is the project of award-winning musicians and filmmakerduo Ross Cullen and Benedict Goddard. An informed mix ofDublin's guitar band scene and the sweaty hardcore dancefloors of their native Belfast, Chalk are IDLES meets Daniel Avery,Death Grips meets Bicep - techno-infused industrial punk.Since forming in 2022, Chalk have had a rise like no other,quickly establishing themselves as an unmissable live act andunpredictable, ferocious songwriters. Their debut UK/IRE toursold out, and led to further bookings across Europe as word oftheir performance and guitar-melded techno spread via word ofmouth and support with national radio in the UK.These songs were collated into the Conditions Trilogy, a family ofthirteen tracks that combine gritty Irish and German-influencedtechno and dance music with gothic, post-punk and jaggedguitar riffs and vocal melodies. This unique blend earned themthe support and kudos of their peers in Fontaines D.C., IDLESand Sprints, all of whom handpicked the band to support themthroughout their tours.

At a mall store, Apple leads a secret witch cult with coworkers Cherry and Fig. New hire Pumpkin questions their sisterhood, forcing them to confront inner darkness or meet violent ends.

Hot Garbage melt into a heavily volatile yet undeniably palatable amalgamation of sonic elements. Calling on the driving rhythms of dark post-punk and motorik krautrock, the Toronto-based outfit seamlessly works shining melodies and swirling textures into deliberate, brooding arrangements. Since forming in 2015, the four-piece have toured extensively throughout Canada, the United States, Europe and the United Kingdom, bringing their intense live sets to festivals such as Levitation, Freakout Fest, Treefort, SXSW, Sled Island, FME, M for Montreal and Pop Montreal, and sharing the stage with notable acts such as Osees, Ty Segall, L.A. Witch, Frankie and the Witch Fingers, JJUUJJUU, Mdou Moctar, Wand and Kikagaku Moyo. The quartet recently returned with Precious Dream (January 19, 2024 via Mothland & Exag’ Records), a sprawling collection of songs written in isolation and brought together alongside visionary producer Graham Walsh (METZ, Preoccupations, Holy Fuck, !!!), offering an exhilarating new breath into the world of post-punk and modern psychedelia, a listening experience that is equally cathartic and introspective.

Just Jim is a multidisciplinary creative living in Austin, Texas. Known locally as a club DJ, he has carved out a reputation as a tastemaker behind the decks. He has an instinct for connecting with the crowd, and is beloved for his ability to communicate with music. His sets are as genre-defying as they are expansive, which provides the source code for his unique style of production. Although labeled as "house music," elements of Hip Hop, R&B, jazz, experimental, and world music are seamlessly incorporated to make for a rich sound full of hidden gems.

Based in Athens, Georgia, Wim Tapley came of age playing venues in Washington D.C. and its sprawling suburbs. There, he honed his voice with the passion of a born troubadour, drawing in a diverse fanbase with his easy showmanship and distinct style. Since 2021, Athens has been home to Wim and his live band The Cannons. His first week in town, Wim made his way onto a local bill, etching a name for himself as a fresh and favorite hometown voice. He is ardently received by his ever-growing following at legendary regional venues like the 9:30 Club, Eddie’s Attic, and the Georgia Theatre—the latter of which he’s sold out more than once—and on tours across the country. Firmly rooted in Americana and dashed with glamorous pop sensibilities, the swinging depths of neo-soul, and a sprinkling of riotous horns, Wim’s arresting sound is as fresh as it is ageless, as fevered as it is raucous fun. A sonic westward expansion of fuzzed-out guitars, defiant horns, and dusty vocals, his discography blazes a fresh new take on folk-pop while honoring the songwriting giants that paved the way before him like Jason Isbell, Bill Withers, and Chris Stapleton.

Woes is a 30 year old alt/rap artist born in Chicago. After failing to finish high school & getting kicked out of college while studying music, Woes quickly found his voice defying authority. As a young middle eastern adult he became fixated on systemic oppression. After leaving college, the city of Chicago became Woes' greatest professor. Woes is the definition of DIY. After recognizing the corruption & politics in the music industry, Woes quickly became known for his guerrilla marketing tactics & his "by any means necessary" attitude in Chicago. Over the last 3 years he's been seen numerous times outside of music festivals rapping from the roof of box trucks, in the middle of streets, or quite literally climbing a billboard to spray his name on the festival lineup advertisement.

Avanti Patel is a multi genre Musician based out of Mumbai- A hindustani classical vocalist, playback singer, theatre maker & composer. She started learning Hindustani Classical Vocals at age 5 and is currently training with Padmashri Vidushi Ashwini Bhide Deshpande of the Jaipur Atrauli Gharana.

Grocery Bag are the latest in a new breed of face-melting rock & roll straight out of Austin, Texas. The garage rock-psych-punk 4 piece, led by diminutive singer Bella Martinez, have been tearing up stages around Texas since 2023, being handpicked by the likes of Osees, Frankie & The Witch Fingers & Farmer's Wife to support on multiple shows as well as a critically-acclaimed set at Levitation Festival 2024. Following this breakthrough performance, the band were added as main support on Psychedelic Porn Crumpets tour in April/May 2025, playing 22 shows & solidifying their reputation as one of the best live bands in the country. Their debut album 'Break You' (released in Nov 2023) is a great raw snapshot of young talented musicians creating something exciting, to-the-point, that leaves you replaying time & time again. New music is expected early 2026!

Rosa Anschütz is a musician and sound artist whose practice merges composition, installation, and performance. Her sound blends the dark ambience of post-punk and cold wave with ethereal polyphony and synth-driven melodies. She has released three LPs: Votive (2020), accompanied by nine clay sculptures inspired by votive offerings; Goldener Strom (2022), which was staged at the Deutsche Oper Berlin; and Interior (2024), featuring nine tracks, each accompanied by a sequined landscape hand-stitched by Anschütz. Her new album, Sabbatical, was released on September 26, 2025, on Heartworm Press, US.

Houston rapper Dice Soho was born in 1995 and by age nine was already integrating himself into his city's fertile underground rap scene, being taught the ways by his uncle and veteran rapper Smoov. Though it wouldn't be until his teenage years that he truly began making a name for himself, fame came quickly once the young rapper began releasing tracks and performing live in the mid-2010s. He grew up near like-minded artist Trill Sammy, and after years of being aware of each other, the two met in 2015 and collaborated on the breakout single "Just Watch." The song went viral quickly and set the scene for Dice Soho to follow up with more big singles like "Ripped Jeans" in 2016 and "Giraffe" in 2017. His 0 Degrees mixtape dropped in 2016, and he made numerous appearances on other rappers' tracks as his profile grew.

Describing J’cuuzi as a band is at the very least inaccurate, or worse: incorrect. While they deliver electrifying, borderline acrobatic live performances of high octane, glitchy songs that modulate between serrated post punk guitar and pulsing electro beats, there is a shocking theatricality to them that the word “band” lacks the range to capture. The members wear handmade couture, with bulbous anime-esque proportions and insectile features sewn into drag silhouettes. They often perform while stacked on top of each other, or hoisted over each other’s heads. Their stage is set like a cheap studio apartment: a spinning blue egg chair and a stack of guitar amps sit on either side of a bedazzled ironing board, from which a spinning disco ball hangs. Since their inception in February 2024, J’cuuzi’s ferocity has earned them opening slots for acts like Viagra Boys, Stereolab, Tune-Yards, Shannon and the Clams, Upchuck, Snooper, and Warmduscher. Whether you call them a band, a performance art troupe, or a fashion house; J’cuuzi has set a pace of expansion and experimentation that proves theirs is an act worth watching.

Jakeneutron is a black multimedia animator and Nerdcore artist from Central Florida! He is also the founder and director of Team Neutron!Him and his Team are behind fan animated music videos such as “Don’t Listen”, “Play My Way” & “Jax Toy”! Many of their projects crossover into fandoms from all over, whether they’re cartoons or indie games! It’s whatever they’re all passionate about!

P.H.0 [P-H-"zero"] is a NYC-based SILKPUNK quartet reshaping the city's underground. Fusing the raw, intense metal riffs with the haunting cry of the traditional Chinese erhu and techno-dystopian synths, they craft sounds that are at once chaotic and controlled, futuristic and ancient. Their live shows—referred to as "rituals"—transform ancient Taoist traditions into ear-crushing soundscapes that defy time, crashing into chaotic mosh pits under visceral strobing lights to create what some describe as a rave in an abandoned shrine from Cyberpunk 2077.

Formed in 1989 in Poway, California, Unwritten Law have been operational in 5 different decades! The SoCal punk rockers found radio success with “Seein’ Red,” “Cailin,” and “Save Me.” Despite several lineup changes over the years, this incarnation of the band has been steady since 2014. After a reconciliation between singer Scott Russo and founding drummer Wade Youman in 2013, the band is completed by guitarists Chris Lewis (Fenix TX) and Scotty Mac, plus Russo’s younger brother, Johnny Grill, on bass.

Trophy Wife is unapologetic. Based in Brooklyn, this trio bares all through a hazy, distorted lens. With the 2024 release of their debut album Get Ugly, McKenzie Iazzetta’s confessional lyrics, Christian Pace’s riff-like bass lines, and Michael Martelli’s pounding drums transform raw diary entries into cathartic anthems for the parts of ourselves that are best swept under the rug.

CQ Wrestling are a British grunge band led by best friends and songwriters Charlie Woods and Jake Mac, delivering a fierce yet melodic 90s-inspired sound. Their lyrics tackle social and political unrest while offering moments of euphoric escape, and their chaotic, high-energy shows have built a devoted following through three sold-out UK tours, Glastonbury 2025, and European festival appearances.

La Texana, the music project of José Ramírez, was born in 2021 in Tijuana, Baja California. At 17, with just a laptop and guitar, he began recording music inspired by Spanish alternative rock and post-punk influences. He debuted with Nunca He Sabido Amar, and in 2023 released his first EP, Morro, featuring Un Día Como Hoy, now with over 6.5 million streams. In 2025, La Texana released his first full-length album, signed by the spanish label Sonido Muchacho "La Casa Que Cae", a 10-track record exploring identity and new beginnings, reaching over 8 million streams. It includes standout tracks like Terco, El Sol, and Dispara. In May, he performed a sold-out debut at Lunario of Auditorio Nacional and is now touring across Mexico (40+ cities) and 7 countries, with more dates to come. La Texana is currently preparing for his biggest show yet at Teatro Metropólitan in February 2026. His style continues to evolve, blending vulnerability and nostalgia, while connecting with a new generation of Mexican musicians and growing an international audience.

Neptune XXI is a multidisciplinary artist, storyteller, and cultural architect whose work fuses the spiritual with the sonic. Raised in Northeast Washington, D.C., shaped by Southern lineage, and sharpened by Baltimore’s creative edge, she creates at the intersection of healing, futurism, and ancestral memory. A graduate of Mount St. Mary’s University and author of From My Mind’s Eye, she bridges scholarship with soul, weaving language, sound, and movement into transformative experiences.

Odanga is an Afrofusion artist, battle rapper, producer, and engineer blending African tradition with American hip-hop. His sound fuses soulful R&B, sharp lyricism, and vibrant Afro rhythms into a cinematic, emotionally grounded experience.

Bubba Lucky is a project created by Taylor Lumpkin initially performing solo with a drum machine, now the band has six members, including members from Gus Baldwin, and the sketch, whisper, commercial breaks, and late wife. Taylor Lumpkin is originally from Louisiana but has spent over a decade Participating in the Austin music scene.

FrivolousShara is a high-voltage Hip-Hop artist and producer blending sharp lyricism, geek culture, and fearless energy into an unforgettable live experience. Blurring the lines between hip-hop, anime, gaming, and internet culture, her sound is bold, playful, and unapologetically her own.

Blues Traveler formed in 1988, led by John Popper (main songwriter, singer, harmonica) along with Chan Kinchla (guitar), the late Bobby Sheehan (bass) and Brendan Hill (drums), came up as part of the 1990’s jam band revival that was influenced by the psychedelic rock, blues and soul bands of the 1960’s and ‘70’s. The band released three foundation-building albums before breaking into the mainstream with their fourth, aptly titled, Four, in 1994. The album included the hit single “Hook”, which reached #23 on the Billboard Hot 100, and the band’s biggest hit “Run-Around”, which reached #8, spent nearly one year on the charts, won a Grammy Award for best Rock Performance and helped the album sell 6x platinum. The band originated the H.O.R.D.E. festival, which marked the second wave of jam band music gatherings and ran for 6 years, fostering musical diversity and community of like-minded bands while giving exposure to various charity organizations. John Popper and the band have recorded a string of subsequent albums and maintained a loyal cult-like following since.

Kozlow is a Brooklyn-based producer, vocalist, and DJ blurring the line between indie frontman and club architect. Fusing live instrumentation and raw, self-written vocals with groove-driven electronic production, his sound lands somewhere between late-night house and sweat-soaked rock show.

Los Gran Reyes are a Dallas-based nine-piece cumbia powerhouse led by Agustín Granados Jr. (AG), blending traditional cumbia styles with modern and electronic influences. Drawing from Cumbia Lagunera, Sonidera, and Argentina, their sound is high-energy, culture-driven, and built for the dance floor. Their latest album, Cumbia Vibes, marks a bold new era of cumbia moderna and solidifies Los Gran Reyes as one of the most exciting live Latin acts today.

LYNN is a 24-year-old artist from Birmingham, Alabama, making waves in the Hip-Hop/Rap and R&B scene. Her music is all about owning the moment, showcasing the power of women through bold, unapologetic rap bars, while also hitting us with those smooth, soulful R&B vibes.Though she’s just getting started, LYNN has already made a big splash, earning the title of “Bama Hip-Hop/Rap Female Artist of the Year” at the 2022 Alabama Music Awards. She’s all about breaking boundaries and creating a space for herself in the industry while uplifting her community along the way.With her unique sound and unstoppable energy, LYNN is on a mission to inspire and pave the way for others, all while cementing her place as one of the freshest voices in the game.

Growing up on her family's farm in Mount Russell, regional Australia, Melanie Dyer started crafting her stories into songs at the age of twelve. With an authentic blend of her down-to-earth farm girl roots, dynamic stage presence and catchy contemporary songwriting chops, Melanie has performed at some of the world's biggest country festivals, including CMA Fest in Nashville, CMC Rocks, and the Big Red Bash in Australia. As a talented artist and songwriter, Melanie has racked up multiple #1 country radio hits and earned three nominations for Most Performed Country Work at the APRA Awards. With over 12.5 million streams, her chart-topping albums Fresh and Between You and Me have garnered her prestigious Golden Guitar nominations and the coveted APRA Professional Development Award. Her breakout hit Memphis T-Shirt catapulted her into the mainstream spotlight on commercial radio networks and a remarkable six-week stint at number one on the Australian Country Hot 50 Chart. In 2025 Melanie relocated to Nashville, Tennessee to chase her dreams of building a global audience and sharing her music across the USA.

Mobee Thicc is a southside Chicago born & raised DJ who in 6 years, has brought people together with her dynamic & unique open-format style and are in high demand from neighborhood bars to major festival stages. She has begun to expand her portfolio to include major US cities including NYC & Houston, TX. Mobee is sure to bring you hours of quality sets that will leave lasting impressions on your crowds!

Social Order is a Los Angeles and Las Vegas–based trio blending melodic pop, post punk, and darkwave into a sound that feels both cinematic and intimate. Formed during the isolation of 2020, the band features Mason Musso and Anthony Improgo of Metro Station alongside Andrew Ward of Nuwave Fighters. Their music explores the tension between nostalgia and reinvention, light and shadow, intimacy and distance.

Sofish is one of the most compelling voices in Mexico’s alternative scene. A singer, songwriter, and Berklee College of Music & Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation scholar, she crafts a sophisticated blend of French House, R&B, and Alt-Pop. Her global appeal was cemented when her single "Me Caigo" went viral across Europe and LatAm, leading Remezcla to call her "iconic… fresh and elegant… diva alert."

The Haunted Youth is the band of Joachim Liebens and the biggest Belgian indie rock sensation of the last few years. After the release of the critically acclaimed and popular debut album Dawn of the Freak and touring almost non-stop, his sophomore album BOYS CRY TOO is set to release in May ‘26. Frontman Joachim Liebens blends dreamy guitars, nostalgic synths, and deeply personal lyrics into songs that, while dark in theme, offer comfort and connection. Since the release of their debut album Dawn of the Freak in November 2022, the band has toured relentlessly, playing to packed crowds from London to Madrid. Festivals like Rock Werchter, Pukkelpop, Lowlands, Sziget, and Iceland Airwaves eagerly welcomed them—The Haunted Youth came, played, and conquered.2025 marks the beginning of the next chapter in The Haunted Youth’s compelling journey, with the release of their highly anticipated sophomore album BOYS CRY TOO, set for February 2026. The album signals a bold step forward in both sound and storytelling, pushing the band’s emotional and sonic boundaries even further.

whisper is an alternative band formed in Austin, TX in 2024.

DJ Candlestick has seen success throughout the music industry as a member of The Nice Guys, and then the Chopstars.Starting his career as a young teenager Candlestick built his name up during his high school years and at University Of Houston. While there he was also a founding member of the Nice Guys. As a member of The Chopstars, he is the Founder of ChopCares.

On their intoxicating new album, Thank the Lord...it’s The Pink Stones, Pinkston and his bandmates do precisely that, offering up a joyful, adventurous take on ’60s twang that blurs the lines between cosmic country, folk, bluegrass, soul, and psychedelic rock. Recorded once again with co-producer/engineer Henry Barbe (Drive-By Truckers, Deerhunter) in the band’s hometown of Athens, GA, the collection showcases a more deliberate, mature side of The Pink Stones’ sound, one that reflects all the personal and sonic growth that’s defined the last few years for the hard touring five-piece. The songs on Thank the Lord... are humble and timeless, full of wry, sardonic wit and rich, evocative storytelling, and the performances are easygoing and amiable, with an effortlessly natural feel that belies the masterful craftsmanship behind them. The result is a record that wears its influences proudly on its sleeve, even as it a subverts expectation, a work of poignant longing and playful humor that tips its cap to everyone from Merle Haggard and Earl Scruggs to Don Williams and The Byrds as it looks both forwards and backwards all at once.

Unsafe Space Garden is a genre-bending outfit from Portugal known for their chaotic, theatrical and deeply immersive live shows. With a sound rooted in neo-psychedelia, experimental rock and a touch of surreal humour, the band pushes musical boundaries with fearless creativity and a clear artistic vision.

MILHD is an indie pop/rock band carving out a vibrant niche in Austin's music scene. Blending catchy hooks, soulful melodies, and punchy guitar-driven energy, their music is built to connect. Whether in a packed dive bar or on a festival stage, songs like Casanova deliver thoughtful lyrics wrapped in an indie groove that keeps the room in motion.

As SLC-based band, Worlds Worst, release their sophomore LP, American Muscle, the band continues to perfect their unique approach to the indie, slacker rock sound. The new LP, released via tastemaker labels Smoking Room and Julia’s War Records, mixed and mastered by Jack Shirley, features standout singles like "Angus," “Gas Hands” and the 2024 track “Motor Mouth.” On American Muscle, the band takes new risks and showcases how they have grown as songwriters while maintaining their noisy, ‘90s rock style. Worlds Worst has toured extensively across the US, headlined Philly's Julia's War Fest, performed at SLC's Kilby Block Party twice, played the new Best Friends Forever Festival in Las Vegas, Boise’s Treefort Fest, and earned recognition as one of Stereogum’s Best New Bands.

Jamaica Moana is THE non-binary Māori (Ngāpuhi/Tainui) and Samoan rapper, songwriter, creative director and ballroom icon reshaping what hip-hop from “down under” can be. Based in Western Sydney on Dharawal and Gadigal land, Jamaica fuses hard-hitting rap, R&B and club electronics with ancestral fire, ballroom attitude and fierce queer identity.

KOAD has one goal as an artist: “I want to make men cry and women dance.” The 23-year-old rapper, producer, and director from the San Fernando Valley is redefining Indian-American artistry with his debut album TREEHOUSE. Born Ajay Dodani to Indian immigrant parents, KOAD blends Bollywood nostalgia, hip-hop, and pop into something unmistakably his own. Teaching himself to produce at 13 and leaving school at 14 to pursue music full-time, he transformed his family garage into a studio with his brother and manager, Amit. His breakout single “Deepika” — a cheeky love letter to Bollywood icon Deepika Padukone — earned co-signs from SZA, Isaiah Rashad, Zane Lowe, and the actress herself. He followed with “dirty,” a sharp satire on cultural fetishization that amassed over 25M views and marked his directorial debut. Now signed to 10K Projects, KOAD is also the co-founder of KOGO, an artist community home to prolific originals including Asha Imuno, Curtis Waters, REHMA, CONNIE, Nafeesisboujee & more. With TREEHOUSE, he fuses vulnerability, swagger, and imagination into a world built for people to feel, dance, and belong.

Jaxs, the electrifying lyricist from Currie, North Carolina, broke out as a Top 5 finalist on Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow Season 2. Known for her pen, magnetic presence, and genre-blending sound, she delivers every performance. More than an artist, Jaxs is a branding powerhouse. She’s partnered with DTLR x New Balance and BACARDÍ x Casa BACARDÍ at Dreamville Festival, cementing her influence beyond music. She’s also graced stages like SXSW, Howard University Springfest, Grind Pretty Festival, did DTLR HBCU TOUR 2025 and more. Her freestyle over a beat by super producer Timbaland went viral, amassing over 4 million views and proving her lyrical skill on a global scale. Her single “DOX MRTNS” was named an Editor’s Pick by The Hype Magazine, and she’s keeping the momentum going with her newest release, “Tomato Tomato”—a bold, witty track that showcases her originality and edge. Influenced by Eminem, André 3000, Missy Elliott, Joyner Lucas, and Childish Gambino, Jaxs brings a fearless, Southern-rooted sound that pushes boundaries. With over 500K followers across social media, a rising brand profile, and nonstop creative energy, Jaxs is one of hip-hop’s most exciting new forces.

East Nasa is a rising music artist and creative known for blending space-inspired themes into his sound and persona. Active on social platforms like Instagram and X, East Nasa frequently shares new music, including singles and projects like Nasa World 3, with production collaborations involving close creative partners and family. His branding leans into a space motif — using imagery and names that evoke exploration and cosmic ambition, which helps set him apart in the current hip-hop and rap landscape. East Nasa’s work reflects his personal journey and artistic growth, with fans encouraged to stream his latest releases and follow his evolving catalog online.

Rapper, Manga Author, and occasional Ninja—Shao Dow (Rhymes with “Wow Bro”). He creates music inspired by anime and gaming but written for the soundtrack of life.

Born and raised in Southwest Houston, Baby Sam is a faith-driven artist whose story is built on resilience. After surviving a near-fatal accident at six years old and teaching himself to walk again, he turned pain into purpose through music.

Marijuana Deathsquads is a Minneapolis-based noise band with an electronic, improvised, experimental sound that that defies listener expectations and easy categorization. Their ear-bending improv/dance grooves have been steadily blowing eardrums, breaking drum heads and tearing at the seams of conventional music-making since the Deathsquads semi-mysterious inception in 2009. The Deathsquads lineup is a loosely defined and mutating structure, its core consists of long time Marijuaners Ryan Olson, Ben Ivascu and Isaac Gale. These names are constants amidst a blur of collaborators.

Born in the fevered jam scene of Chicago, Silvertone brings an eclectic blend of groovy rhythms, powerful licks, and soulful lyrics to rock music. Each member of the quartet separately found their way to the Windy City in search of band mates and it wasn’t long before they found each other. Their diverse musical backgrounds mixed with their happy-go-lucky personalities lead them to create energetic foot-tapping riffs fused with catchy head-bobbing melodies, making a unique “rock and roll sound you can dance to” and leaves you wanting more.