Sun, Mar 15

"Basht. are an Irish band whose backgrounds collide into something heavy and hungry." - DORK

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.

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.

Nug is a musical group made up of four friends in Portland, OR. Blending and bending the genres of Post Punk, Indie Rock, Shoegaze, Nu-metal, Psych Rock, and probably some other things, Nug has been described we-think-affectionately as “Parquet Courts meets Grateful Dead” and “a jam band for people who hate jam bands” and “really friendly guys making loud music”. Nug’s debut record “Kerfuffle” released in February of 2025 and remains released to this very day.

YES AND MAYBE are a Scottish-French duo that blend instinct and precision to craft music that feels both familiar and unpredictable. Meeting online, the French multi-instrumentalist "Yes" and the Scottish producer/vocalist "Maybe" create songs grounded in introspection, storytelling and the indie sounds of the 2000s. Embracing a remote collaboration, their debut album ‘Train to Nowhere’ was written and produced entirely over WhatsApp. It captures raw emotion through intricate melodies, atmospheric vocals and sharp lyricism.

Formed in 2012, FINLANDS is a Tokyo-based indie rock band fronted by distinctive female vocals. Known for sharp songwriting and an emotionally charged sound that bridges alternative rock and melodic pop, the band has steadily expanded its audience since their major-label debut, performing headline shows at mid-to-large venues and appearing at major Japanese festivals.

Firmly established as an artist’s artist with the likes of Noel Gallagher, Sam Fender, Louis Tomlinson and Pete Doherty.Andrew Cushin is primed to rise to the next level with the May 2nd release of his second album ‘LoveIs For Everyone’. Building upon his acclaimed debut ‘Waiting For The Rain’. The 2nd album charted in the UK official top 40 album charts. Andrew recently teamed up with his local brewery Anarchy Brew Co to create his own L.I.F.E IPA beer,which is now available from their website. It represents his latest brand collaboration after being invited to headlineThe Soundcheck, the debut live event from the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One team, late last year. Andrew has played Italian, Dutch and British GP with Aston Martin F1 team in 2025.Andrew toured the full UK headline in May and October 2025 as well as EU . He is currently on his 3rd successive year of touring North American/Canada headline tour.In October 25th 2025 Andrew Cushin sold out his hometown show at Newcastle City Hall in front of 2500 fans.2025 has been a huge success for Andrew Cushin breaking through the top 40 and now firmly establishing himself as a firm favourite in the UK live scene.

Taking over sweaty New York venues and curbside congregations, bloodsports has become an undeniable force with their latest lineup—Sam Murphy (guitar/vocals), Jeremy Mock (guitar), Liv Eriksen (bass/vocals), and Scott Hale (drums)—finding solace in sonic strain where angular sedition collides with economical melodies that ease the weight of self-destruction. Their long-awaited debut album Anything Can Be A Hammer marks a bold evolution, embracing a more dynamic, mature approach as the band balances experimentation and curiosity with rhythmic blows and emotional depth; fragile yet abundant, the record leans into patience and interior tension, with Murphy’s lyricism blurring the line between what we know and what we think we know—it’s an album with blood in its veins and a finger on the pulse. The release quickly caught fire with praise from Stereogum, Vice, Alternative Press, Consequence, and more, leading to a support slot on They Are Gutting A Body of Water’s sold-out album release show and performances alongside Starcleaner Reunion and Brutus VII. In 2026, the Brooklyn four-piece is set to take their hard-hitting live show to SXSW, across the country, and around the world.

CDSM a.k.a. Celebrity Death Slot Machine is a “freakout post-punk group” (FLOOD Magazine) based in Atlanta, GA. Their stylish sonic onslaught is anchored around dancey rhythms, atypical synthesizer work, timely saxophone growls, as well as goth rock-esque melodies that serve to recount bizarre humor-laden tales from a derelict parallel universe. Since forming in 2021, the band has toured North America and Europe, sharing the stage with likes of The KVB, Bodega, Sheer Mag, Iceage, and Model/Actriz, while also taking part in events such as SXSW, Treefort Festival, Art Rock Festival, Hopscotch Festival, and M for Montreal. CDSM’s introductory EP, Hell Stairs (2022), was both glamorous and bleak, swanky and derelict, uplifting and crushing, described by the band as “hedonism clinking in your glass, change jingling in the pit of your chest.” Atlanta’s hot new commodity followed with a slew of music videos – “GOGO” (May 11th, 2023), “Entertainment” (2023), “DOM” (2023), and “SHADY” (2024) – amidst a stretch that saw them bring their sweaty live set to the very best underground venues the United States, Canada and Europe have to offer.

Svani Quintanilla, known by his stage name Principe Q, is the visionary behind Screwmbia—a modern twist on cumbia that blends its signature rhythms with trap drums and slowed-down beats. He pioneered this genre alongside DJ King Louie as part of the duo Royal Highness. Honoring his family’s musical legacy, he continues the innovation once championed by his aunt, Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, in the ’80s and ’90s.Following in the footsteps of his father, A.B. Quintanilla III, Principe Q has dedicated himself to producing and shaping fresh sounds for rising artists. Since adopting his moniker in 2012, he has performed as a DJ across the country, contributing to Houston’s flourishing cumbia scene as part of the Bombon collective. His work with Royal Highness led to performances at major festivals in Mexico, including Ceremonia and EDC Mexico. In recent years, he has graced the lineups of renowned events like Bonnaroo, Boiler Room, and EDC Orlando, cementing his place as a key force in the evolution of modern cumbia.

Vic Mensa is an acclaimed musician, actor, and entrepreneur whose work spans music, film, and social advocacy. His albums, including The Autobiography and Victor, have reached millions, while his EP sundiata marked his first fully independent release. An actor on The Chi and Bel-Air, he’s also the founder of 93 Boyz, Illinois’ first Black-owned cannabis brand. With a strong social media presence, Mensa uses his platform to drive cultural conversation, creative innovation and community impact.

BIRTHED FROM NYC WASTE WATER AND SOAKED IN FORMALDEHYDE, BALACLAVA ANSWERS THE LIFE LONG QUESTION OF WHAT ANIMATED TRASH WOULD SOUND LIKE.

Rising rapidly within the global indie scene, Frankfurt Helmet has emerged as a definitive voice in Chinese independent electronic music. As one of China’s most innovative trans-media projects, the duo—comprising acclaimed drummer Romna and sound artist Yufei—merges their diverse backgrounds to push the boundaries of electronic soundscapes.Their sonic identity is defined by a striking contrast: the ethereal, atmospheric depths of modular synthesis layered over cold, precisionengineered mechanical rhythms. Having graced the stages of major international festivals and art exhibitions, Frankfurt Helmet continues to redefine the intersection of live performance and sound art on a global scale.

Nightbus are a brooding, cinematic two-piece (4 members live) blending post-punk, trip-hop, and late-night electronica into something dark, hypnotic and unmistakably their own. Formed in Manchester UK in 2023, their music captures the anxious beauty of city life after hours—dripping in atmosphere - bass-heavy and emotionally raw. With haunting vocals, reverb-soaked guitars, and minimalist beats, they echo the ghosts of The Knife, Portishead, early Cure, Chromatics and the XX, all while carving out a space all their own.

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.

E D D Y began her music career during the pandemic, teaching herself how to DJ while in lockdown in Sacramento. What started as practicing mixes at home quickly evolved into a fast-rising career, leading her to share stages with some of her musical idols, including Akon, RUSS, Don Toliver, Diplo, Chase B, and AG Club. She has performed at major events such as Sol Blume and Concert in the Park.

Victoryland is the Brooklyn-based project of musician Julian McCamman. His label-debut, My Heart Is A Room With No Cameras In It, out January 23, 2026 via Good English, is a triumphant, despondent, and ultimately fun experimental pop-rock album. Victoryland started in Philly 2023 with the release of tape, Sprain, which echoed more of what the Philly scene was dishing out: lo-fi, tape-recorded rock with a capital R. It was the collaborative efforts of producer Dan Howard that brought the new vision and sound into full focus.Dan and Julian previously worked on Julian’s now-defunct Texas-to-Philly based band, Blood’s Loving You Backwards LP, a collaborative effort between six bandmates. That experience pushed Julian toward a more personal process of recording, starting with home demos and then bringing them to Dan to shape into songs. This relationship ultimately led Julian to move to NYC.

Danny Ritmo: The High-Energy Pulse of the StageWith over 15 years of experience behind the decks and on the mic, Danny Ritmo has solidified his reputation as Austin’s finest DJ and MC. Known for an electrifying stage presence that blurs the line between performer and crowd leader, Danny doesn't just play music—he creates an atmosphere.Career HighlightsDanny has brought his signature high-energy sets to some of the industry's most prestigious stages, including:• SXSW Festival: Commanding the iconic Billboard Stage.• Rumbazo Fest: Taking the heat to the Las Vegas strip.• Artist Support: Trusted to set the tone for high-profile Latin artists, seamlessly blending global rhythms with modern club energy.Whether he’s navigating a massive festival crowd or an intimate high-stakes event, Danny Ritmo’s veteran instincts and bilingual charisma make him a powerhouse in the Latin music scene and beyond.

Unlock radical imagination with avant-garde creativity methods from Chicago’s Futurist Salon. In this interactive workshop for innovation and culture leaders, you’ll apply speculative avant-garde techniques—surrealist games (metaphor jamming, automatic writing), situationist exercises (dérive-style cultural mapping), and futurist scenario play—to reframe challenges, discover unseen connections, and spark breakthrough ideas. You’ll leave with hands-on tools and a simple framework for hosting your own salons that shift mental models and drive bold innovation across your organization.

Too many leaders today use AI to automate yesterday. Some use AI to do their thinking. But if we don't think critically and creatively, if we don’t define how we compete more effectively with AI, then we leave it to AI slop and cognitive Darwinism to shape our future. This is a moment for mastering AIQ: the Augmented Intelligence Quotient. The best leaders master IQ, EQ, and SQ. AIQ is the practice of becoming exponentially smarter with AI, to augment our thinking and output to achieve what wasn’t possible before AI. In this special session, Brian Solis, Futurist, author, Head of Global Innovation at ServiceNow will share a mindshift map to move from efficiency to augmented possibility, to automate what should be automated, and augment what only humans can imagine to reshape the future.

The American workforce is shifting faster than anyone expected. A four-year college degree is no longer the sole path to economic stability. As AI automates many white-collar roles, demand for skilled trades is accelerating—electricians, HVAC technicians, welders, and operators who will build and maintain the infrastructure behind the AI boom itself. Yet millions of workers have been told these careers do not represent “success.” In this session, the Business for Good Foundation explores why hands-on careers may become the most stable and upwardly mobile jobs of the next decade, and how philanthropy, business, and policymakers can create new pathways, remove barriers, and expand access to a modern American Dream.

Big audiences don’t guarantee emotional connection. The brands breaking through today are those that intentionally design feelings such as belonging, joy, identity, and celebration that scale across millions of people.

As immersive media rapidly evolves, we face a critical window of opportunity to shape an equitable distribution ecosystem. Join the Independent XR Distribution Coalition for a participatory workshop on imagining a flourishing XR field. The session will begin with a presentation of distribution pipeline research and a database of venues and platforms, followed by a mapping exercise that surfaces the issues artists, audiences, and producers face in XR. Participants will sketch speculative distribution pathways across diverse platforms, using artist-centered strategies as building blocks.

In today’s content landscape, creators aren’t just making videos—they’re building universes. Long-form, narrative-driven programming is emerging as a way for creators to tell richer stories while incorporating brands in ways that feel natural and engaging. Creators aren’t just starring in the content—they’re producing the :15 and :30 ads that live across the platform. This session explores how creators can develop authentic brand partnerships that align with their vision, scale their careers, and transform one-off deals into long-term relationships built on trust, creativity, and shared values. Attendees will hear directly from top creators about why these deep partnerships are redefining how modern audiences connect with advertising that values authenticity and substance over surface-level promotion.

Search is no longer transactional. It’s conversational, AI-driven, and increasingly shaped by how Answer Engines interpret brands. In this live workshop, Avenue Z and Profound will conduct real-time AEO Brand Audits to show how brands appear across ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and other AI-native experiences. You will learn how AI Search influences demand, reputation, and revenue, and leave with an actionable audit framework and tactics to understand, control, and scale how your brand shows up in the zero-click internet.

Are we living through a 1929 moment and don't know it yet?

Bob Odenkirk has defied expectations before — but with NORMAL, he steps fully into his action hero era. In this can’t miss SXSW session, Odenkirk joins the team behind this kinetic neo-Western to explore his evolution from acclaimed character actor to undeniable action lead.

When Mahmoud Khalil was targeted and nearly deported by the Trump administration for his advocacy, his life as a Palestinian student and soon-to-be father were irrevocably upended. Now released from detention – but still facing the threat of deportation – Khalil joins The Guardian for an unflinching conversation on his ordeal, the system that tried to silence him, and the personal and political stakes of resistance.

What if the next wave of high growth companies is emerging from founders on the move? From refugee camps in the Netherlands to Cairo’s Little Damascus and innovation hubs in Iraq’s Kurdistan, migrant and refugee entrepreneurs are transforming overlooked markets into engines of growth. Valentina Primo has helped unlock over $10 million in investment and create 50,000 jobs across 17 countries as founder of Startups Without Borders. Victoria Kuketz has designed corporate strategy and led public policy efforts on workforce development, productivity, and economic inclusion at Catalyst and the Public Policy Forum. In this panel, they reveal how corporate and nonprofit partnerships can turn economic inclusion from a social initiative into a competitive innovation strategy.

Cultural conversations around “main character energy” and a loneliness epidemic have made some feel like NPCs in the game of life. But what drives someone to join a Twitch stream or wear a jersey to a bar? Belonging. Fandoms aren’t mindless obsessions — they’re identity-shaping communities that turn disconnected observers into players. This talk explores how brands can drive growth through belonging by inviting people in through storytelling, access, and shared imagination—turning passive audiences into passionate communities.

Whether it’s the Golden Globes introducing a “podcast” category, celebrities and politicians turning to podcasts to promote their work or shape public opinion, or video platforms like YouTube becoming the #1 TV streaming service, podcasts are an increasingly significant part of the creator economy. Hear from creators and industry leaders about the opportunity they see in podcasting, and how they’re using podcasts to launch and grow their own multi-platform media businesses.

Philip Payne and Sofia Martinez will reveal how they secured roles at major music companies. Whether you’re aiming for a full-time position or independent contract work, they will share the exact strategies they used to get their foot in the door. From A&R and touring to agency roles, Philip and Sofia will break down what actually work - including successful cold outreach and turning internships into careers. You’ll walk away with industry-standard networking tips and a personalized roadmap to jumptart your own career.

Women are leading the transformation of legacy industries and reimagining how we lead, move, and show up in the world with confidence. This panel brings together female leaders to explore how women are shaping the future through innovation, purpose-driven leadership, and consumer-centered solutions. These leaders will give insight into how to build brands that disrupt the status quo; how staying true to a clear vision creates space to be responsive and agile; and share lessons in cultivating teams to drive long-term success. A conversation about what’s next — with the women building it.

For generations, play has shaped how we imagine, connect, and create. Today it spans toys, gaming, anime, sports, and emerging tech, blending physical and digital worlds into shared experiences. As new technologies, platforms, and global fandoms accelerate, play is being redefined in real time.

Join Love Island USA’s host Ariana Madix and executive producer/showrunner Ben Thursby-Palmer as they pull back the curtain in a fireside chat that goes behind the cameras and inside the Villa. They’ll break down how the team captures, shapes, and delivers the stories that keep audiences hooked. From round-the-clock production and rapid-fire editing to monitoring social media, collaborating with on-camera talent and navigating the ethics of unscripted storytelling, this conversation offers a sharp, insider look at how a cultural phenomenon is built in real time.

Are you a SXSW Mentor? Are you looking for a Mentor? Want to learn about Mentoring at SXSW? Join SXSW Programmer Audrey to get the scoop on the program, meet other Mentors – or if you’re a Mentee and need a little more advice!

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

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Nonprofits, Funding, Policy.

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

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Blockchain & Cryptocurrency, Business Development, Fintech.

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

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

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

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

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

Join award-winning journalist Kara Swisher for a live taping of On with Kara Swisher, where she’ll sit down with a special guest for a no-holds-barred interview.

From idea to post, AI is transforming how creators brainstorm, write, and scale. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll explore tools that accelerate, not replace, your voice: from custom GPTs for ideation to AI-powered editors that adapt to your style. We’ll cover how to maintain consistent content without burnout and utilize automation to support authentic community building. Walk away with real workflows that streamline creation and deepen audience connection.

Change isn’t optional—but engagement is. In this energizing talk, change strategist Jeff Skipper reveals how leaders can turn organizational resistance into momentum. With stories from Fortune 100 transformations and fast-growing companies, Jeff shows why most change fails (hint: it’s not the process) and how to co-create clarity, alignment, and commitment—even in reluctant teams. Walk away with tools to lead change with precision and humanity, and yes—maybe even a little grace.

Retail has become more than a revenue stream. It’s a cultural touchpoint and a powerful platform for artist marketing. This panel explores how brands and bands collaborate to extend an artist’s presence far beyond the stage through merch, in-store activations, exclusive drops, and co-branded campaigns. Hear how retail partnerships are shaping music fandom, fueling discovery, and embedding artists deeper into culture. We’ll break down how artists are leveraging retail to build lasting fan engagement.

True crime is one of the most powerful ways the public grapples with justice and violence. Join Thien Ho, Sacramento DA and lead prosecutor on the Golden State Killer case; investigator Paul Holes, whose forensic work helped identify the killer; and historian Anne Soon Choi, whose biography of Thomas Noguchi explores the Coroner to the Stars’ most famous cases, including Marilyn Monroe and RFK. Together, they examine how law, forensic practice, technology, and storytelling shape how victims are represented, cold cases are solved, and truth is constructed. Moderated by publisher Stephanie Lim.

Join author Jesse Crosson for a special first-public reading of his forthcoming memoir, (publishing March 10, 2026). In this session, Jesse will read select passages that dive into his journey and how the hard-won lessons he learned apply to your life as well! He will discuss how accountability is the pathway to freedom, how service is redemption in action and how building a life of options is much more successful than building a life of plans.

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.

Past winners of the SXSW Pitch competition are back to share how their lives and entrepreneurial journeys have changed since winning on the SXSW Pitch stage. Catch-up on their latest endeavors, hear directly from the winning founders, and learn how they leveraged the SXSW Pitch platform to take their startups to the next level.

In a world of AI content, audiences crave the imperfections of handmade art. From viral stop motion to sold-out film rolls and indie zines, analog crafts are booming. This panel explores how creators use nostalgia, scarcity, and authenticity to build loyal communities, monetize slowness, collaborate across mediums, and cut through digital noise.

Why is everyone still reading the same article when no two readers are alike? This session challenges the future of storytelling in AI—where the promise isn’t cheaper content, but stories as personal as your own fingerprint.

Events have been the most sought after B2B marketing channel over the past four years. In the age of AI and deep polarization, in person experiences offer the perfect outlet for multiple generations to gather and engage with brands. But events are not easy! What is working today and how are brands engaging offline? Join Julius Solaris for a data-backed journey with a clear objective, helping you make your events more attended, sponsored and engaging.

I know, I know: you’ve seen it all before. In 2016-2020, many people thought VR would be *the thing*. It didn’t happen, and you’ve moved on. We didn’t. See: VR is cool, actually. Talk to any creative, any filmmaker: they want in. Why? BECAUSE IT’S AWESOME! Come to this talk and learn how the latest cameras and headsets *finally* make it easy to create mind-blowing experiences. I’ll show you a few projects that came out recently, share some audience numbers - and you’ll get why Immersive Videos are the most undervalued creative opportunity at the moment!

Chasing one of the most ambitious scientific discoveries of our time, a group of biologists, linguists, roboticists, & legal scholars have joined forces to understand what animals are saying to each other & devise a way to talk to them. Leveraging state-of-the-art technology, including a groundbreaking machine learning engine, Project CETI scientists have made huge progress decoding the communication of sperm whales. We will explore the impact of interspecies communication & what it means for humanity, the legal rights of animals, animal intelligence, and the future of conservation.

There’s no denying that Latin artists are shaping sound, style, storytelling, and brand strategy across industries. At the forefront of the global conversation, this panel explores what the next era looks like as Latin culture drives commerce, and artists lead as global entrepreneurs, executives, and tastemakers. We’ll examine how brands can build long-term, values-driven partnerships that fuel real opportunity, and how Latin artists are shifting the charts as much as the global climate.

AI-native has become the goal, but for many organizations it’s unrealistic or unnecessary. This conversation will look honestly at what AI-native really means and why teams get stuck trying to achieve it. We’ll explore the technical, organizational, and human bottlenecks that hold companies back, and how strong leaders decide when to invest, when to adapt, and when to walk away. A grounded discussion about tradeoffs, judgment, and practical AI outcomes.

For marketers, being part of culture is no longer optional. As community-led discovery overtakes search monoculture, smart brands recognize that communities don’t want sponsors; they want neighbors. 65% of consumers say they’re more loyal to brands that foster meaningful connections. This panel explores the difference between relevance and rejection and demonstrates how showing up with humility, consistency, and value turns audiences into collaborators, unlocking cultural traction that drives lasting loyalty.

"Los Lobos Native Sons" is the definitive, authorized chronicle of one of America’s most enduring, genre-defying bands. Tracing Los Lobos’ rise from East L.A. streets to global acclaim, the film offers unprecedented access to their archives and an intimate look at the brotherhood driving their journey. Through electrifying performances and candid interviews—with Linda Ronstadt, Rubén Blades, Tom Waits, Dolores Huerta, Danny Elfman, Jackson Browne, Cheech Marin, Edward James Olmos, Peter Frampton, George Lopez, Bonnie Raitt, and more, the film celebrates their legacy as cultural trailblazers blending rock, roots, and Mexican traditions into a sound uniquely their own.

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.

Vibrant work filmed in, inspired by, or connected to the Lone Star State.

"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.

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.

“Cookie Queens” is a coming-of-age story about the joys, pressures, and pain points woven into one of America’s most cherished rituals: Girl Scout Cookie season. Captivating, candid, and full of heart, the film follows four girls ages 5-12 as they navigate the annual whirlwind of selling, striving, and succeeding. For these Girl Scouts, selling cookies isn’t just about Thin Mints and sisterhood - it’s a crash course in commercialism. Behind the smiles lie real pressure: long hours, ambitious goals, and weighty expectations. With humor, warmth, and a keen eye for small moments revealing big truths, “Cookie Queens” shows how growing up is shaped by tensions between community and capitalism.

Jesse Crosson will be signing copies of “The Best Part of Prison” at the SXSW Bookstore.

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.

"Access to Capital for the World's Underbanked Entrepreneurs" will be a creative discussion centered on how to expand financial access for underbanked and underserved entrepreneurs around the world – helping to create local jobs and economic mobility for founders from Detroit to Nairobi to the Za'atari refugee camp and beyond. Two award-winning social entrepreneurs and human rights leaders will discuss their work on the ground in the U.S., Africa, and Asia to connect women, refugee, and low-income individuals to the capital they need to launch and grow life-changing micro-enterprises.

Marketing is experiencing its most significant disruption in 20 years. With 60% of searches resulting in no clicks and AI set to overtake traditional search by 2028, the old playbook is expired. From the creators of inbound marketing, join HubSpot CMO Kipp Bodnar and growth strategist Steph Smith for a special live recording of the podcast, “Marketing Against the Grain,” where they’ll unveil a new methodology to help businesses shift from controlling traffic to maximizing conversion, from providing answers to enabling actions, and from mass marketing to AI-personalization at scale.

Sponsorship no longer guarantees relevance. Today, brands must earn their place inside the communities they hope to reach. This panel explores how leaders across categories build cultural credibility by embedding themselves in real ecosystems from sports and creator communities to street-level rituals. These executives will share how participation, proximity, and purpose-driven partnerships transform brands from observers into contributors and why belonging is more powerful than visibility.

The music industry is undergoing a massive restructure, but a new, healthier model is emerging. This panel unites leaders from LWC, BAK, jump.global, and digilogue to reveal how grassroots communities are reshaping the industry. We'll explore their profound impact on members' mental health, career growth, and the creation of new opportunities. This session will demonstrate that when gatekeepers fail, a better, more supportive, and thriving music industry can be built through collective action.

Motorsport is having a cultural breakthrough from mainstream moments like Drive to Survive and the F1 Movie to sim racing, TikTok fandoms, and grassroots club culture. However, most spaces still center the same legacy voices. This Meetup brings together fans, creators, marketers, and community builders who are shaping what motorsport looks like next. Whether you're growing a following, building a brand, or simply finding your people, this is a space to connect, share stories, and spotlight rising voices across all motorsport passion points.

Does offloading thinking to AI cause cognitive atrophy or free our brains to think about more complex problems? That’s the million-neuron question. This provocative panel explores “adaptive intelligence”, where human and machine learning loops converge. A neuroscientist, futurist, and AI visionary unpack how co-learning systems, neuromorphic design, and spatial computing can amplify creativity, decision-making, and human agency in a world where algorithms don’t just support us, they shape us.

Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins has shaped pop music for 25+ years, producing hits for icons like Brandy, Beyoncé, MJ, and SZA. Now leading his indie label Alienz Alive, he joins The MLC’s Jamie Dominguez for a candid fireside chat on legacy, ownership, and building a sustainable career with purpose. Jerkins shares lessons learned, what the industry gets wrong, and how transparency, mentorship, and community can help creators thrive in today’s ever-evolving, Wild West-like music economy.

Armed with a phone: This panel explores how everyday people—armed only with cell phones—have become primary witnesses to state violence and how their footage reshapes public narrative and justice processes. #WhileBlack shows both the moral power and unpredictable personal cost of such witnessing. While the recent video of the Minneapolis ICE shooting underscores how recordings can surface in real time to both inform and inflame national debate, #WhileBlack, is also set in Minneapolis and it explores the impact of witnessing on the brave citizen journalists who are increasingly becoming harbingers of the truth.  Who gets to record, who gets to be believed, who gets protection, and how do social platforms’ monetize the impact of visceral, real-world events? #WhileBlack powerfully examines some of the most viral murders and beatings by police over generations through the lens of technology.

Join Oscar and Emmy-winning actor Riz Ahmed for a preview and live conversation around his new comedy series, BAIT, premiering March 25 on Prime Video. BAIT is a comedy about struggling actor Shah Latif who auditions for the role of a lifetime, only to see his life spiral out of control over four frenetic days.

In an age where the music industry is shifting from algorithms to authenticity, Twitch has become the place for artists who want to test, share, and build music in real time—with their fans by their side. In this discussion, Twitch's Head of Community, Mary Kish, will sit down with Tierra Whack and DJ_Dave to explore how livestreaming is transforming the way music is made, discovered, and experienced. This session will unpack how artists are using Twitch not just as a stage, but as a studio, fan hub, and feedback loop all in one.

Great content starts with great ideas. In this talk, you’ll learn how to find better ideas for your social posts from Jon Youshaei who worked inside Instagram and YouTube for 8 years. Jon used this process to grow his audience to 1M+ followers while being featured in TIME, Fast Company, and Inc magazine for “cracking the code on how to go viral.” No more running out of ideas. No more waiting for inspiration. Whether you’re trying to grow on Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, or X, this talk outlines a repeatable process to grow your audience — and become a respected voice in your niche.

Join Howard Rosenman for an intimate SXSW Meet Up designed for storytellers and Hollywood-curious builders who want real connection and a rare, unfiltered window into how the industry actually works. Rosenman is an Academy Award-winning producer (Best Documentary Feature for Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt) whose credits span Father of the Bride, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The Family Man, The Celluloid Closet, and Call Me by Your Name. This meet up will open with a short, candid “ask me anything” style kickoff from Howard about building a lasting creative career, earning trust in rooms with high stakes, and what separates projects that get made from projects that stay ideas. The rest of the hour is designed for organic conversation and real introductions, with Howard available for questions and perspective you rarely get outside the Hollywood inner circle.

Startups are often pitched on “strategic partnerships” with large companies, but most never progress beyond a pilot. This panel features innovation leaders from a healthcare innovation and venture arm, a mobility and sustainability-focused enterprise, and a national restaurant brand redefining service through digital innovation. Together, they’ll unpack how corporates build new ventures, and what it takes for founders to gain traction and create lasting value with enterprise partners.

The session is about the pivot from distraction to immersion; how design and intuitive technology can help people feel more connected to the outdoors. We will explore how to create spaces and products that amplify the environment rather than block it out, and how “bringing the outside in” can transform our daily spaces from isolating barriers into seamless bridges to the natural world.

Join Lisa Hresko of the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM) and Reid Wick of the Recording Academy for a conversation about music advocacy and the work of strengthening creative communities. Together, they’ll explore how industry organizations champion independent voices, shape policy, and create meaningful opportunities for artists and music professionals. The discussion will highlight the practical ways advocacy supports a more connected, sustainable music ecosystem.

As AI transforms how we work and lead, it’s not just a technical revolution—it’s an emotional one. In this session, Harvard Business Review author Morra Aarons-Mele explores how current and emerging leaders can manage AI anxiety, build psychological safety for themselves and their teams, and keep humans at the center of innovation. Attendees will learn to navigate fear and resistance with empathy, reframe anxiety as fuel for growth, and lead with clarity, flexibility, and courage through change.

Startup-savvy attorneys bring their real-world experience to SXSW in a fast-paced legal Q&A packed with insight, strategy, and storytelling. From navigating AI patents and trademark showdowns to managing sketchy investors and sudden privacy crises, they’ll tackle complex legal issues with humor and clarity. Attendees get tailored advice, practical tools, and a Startup Legal Survival Kit—no billable hours required. Think speed-dating, but for the legal hurdles every founder faces.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Fashion/Retail, Marketing/Advertising/PR, Storytelling, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Content Strategy/Production, "Diversity, Equity & Inclusion", Future of Work, Immersive Technology, Nonprofits, Product Management/Development.

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

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

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Game Development, Coding, Art.

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

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 Sync/Licensing, Women in Music, Publishing.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Music Tech, Sync/Licensing, and A&R

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Off Script with NBCUniversal takes audiences inside the minds of prolific executive producers from The 'Burbs and The Gilded Age as they discuss modern storytelling, the art of showrunning, and the defining moments that have shaped their careers.

Join tech journalist Kara Swisher and NYU Professor Scott Galloway as they offer sharp, unfiltered insights into the biggest stories in tech, business, and politics. They’ll make bold predictions, pick winners and losers, and bicker and banter like no one else. After all, with great power comes great scrutiny.

Everyone has a podcast now, but no one really talks about how to actually grow one or make money from it. That’s what this meetup is for. Hosted by Grace Ling and Justin Nguyen from How Creators Make Money podcast, we’re bringing podcasters together to trade real tips, share what’s worked and what hasn’t, and connect with people who get it. Whether you’re on episode 2 or 200, you’ll leave with ideas, new friends, and maybe your next collab.

Culture does not shift all at once. There are signals before it moves. This session explores how breakthrough brands identify early patterns, decode what they mean, and act ahead of the curve. Rather than reacting to trends, these leaders use cultural foresight to shape products, missions, and strategies that create momentum. The discussion will offer practical insight into how predicting culture drives relevance, loyalty, and measurable business impact.

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

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

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 Agents & Managers, Development, Doc Filmmakers, Narrative Filmmakers, Producers/Production, "Sales, Acquisitions, & Distribution".

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

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

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Screenwriting, Narrative Filmmakers, Producers/Production, Development, Agents & Managers, Funding/Artist Support.

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

The loss of federal funding and AI's reshaping of the media landscape present risks and opportunities for public media and public service journalism. This session features a transparent conversation between a local and national leader who are experimenting with GAI in ways that maintain trust with the audience, center the work and judgment of journalists, and augment storytelling and engagement. Join us for a lively discussion focused on transparency, ethics and how organizations can advocate for the sustainability, impact, and continued production of high-quality, human-centered journalism.

What happens when AI moves beyond the hype and starts transforming the entire journey, from supply chain operations to the customer experience? We’ll explore how AI and robotics eliminate friction, anticipate customer needs, and turn operational and behavioral data into faster deliveries, greater transparency, and a seamless, elevated customer experience.

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 Narrative Filmmaking.

We go to the same cafés, follow the same glossy lists, and sit in front of the same Netflix queue. Increasingly, we are beginning to think in similar ways, shaped in part by AI tools. Many of us feel something is off, yet struggle to name it. It is not loud or dramatic. It is an ambient condition we live inside. Gulay Ozkan calls this sameness.In this session, she introduces her book The Age of Sameness: A Continuous Experience Shaped by Human Creativity, traces how this condition has taken shape, and asks a deeper question: whether the conditions for human creativity still exist.

Standing out in a crowded inbox or on a cold call is one of the toughest challenges in B2B sales. In this session, Glenn Kramon, Pulitzer Prize winning New York Times editor and Stanford Business School instructor, shares proven communication strategies that help sales professionals earn attention and credibility with decision-makers. You’ll learn how to open with impact, tailor messages to business priorities, remove unnecessary jargon, and strike the right balance of professionalism and authenticity to drive meaningful responses.

What if you could train your brain to generate better content ideas? This neuroscience-backed session explores how creators can tap into the brain’s natural creativity systems specifically for content production. With live brainwave demos on stage, you’ll see what happens during “Eureka” moments and how to trigger them on demand. Walk away with practical, brain-based tools to improve video ideation, storytelling, and content flow in the creator economy.

Iconic worlds are being reimagined across XR and shared-reality formats, giving audiences new ways to step inside the stories they love. Bringing together leaders from Meta, Universal Pictures, Nexus Studios and Cosm, we’ll explore how spatial storytelling is evolving as major IP moves into these new environments – and what’s ahead as these mediums step from the bleeding-edge into the mainstream. The panel will unpack what audiences are responding to, how scalable business models are emerging across platforms, and the new creative opportunities this opens up for worldbuilders.

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.

As much as we'd like to think that splurgy new car and our Prime Day shopping carts are the fruits of reason, purchases big and small aren’t governed by logic. People purchase based on who they are, how they feel and what surrounds them at the time. Humans are 'Unreasonable by Nature,' and this panel will illustrate how to grow brands by aligning with the true psychological drivers of consumer decisions. Expert academics from leading American business schools, Ryan Hamilton, Alix Barasch and Keisha Cutright, will explore how rational marketing tactics often fail where unreasonable appeals win.

Building on last year's session 'Putting Endings in Our Beginnings', Juli Rush continues sharing her research on how we might ritualize both joy + grief as individuals and collectives to build more resilient systems. Bringing her work as a futurist, researcher at the University of Houston, and as a death doula, Juli shares both ancient and new rituals to employ within a chaotic and complex world. This work focuses on disrupting our business-as-usual world to build futures that see endings as new possibilities for the future.

Who owns your face, your voice, your following? In the creator economy, your identity is currency but also your biggest legal risk. This session exposes how influencers, founders, and professionals are losing control of their name, image, and likeness (NIL) in business disputes, brand deals, and even divorce. With deepfakes and Al cloning now part of the mix, you'll learn how to lockdown your identity before someone else monetizes it. If you are the brand, you better own it. Your face may be famous, but it's also vulnerable.

Young people are in the midst of a sex recession - they're having much less sex, way less often - and they're taking flak from all sides. Some say young women are too sex negative in the wake of #MeToo and the fall of Roe v Wade. Others blame young men for becoming enamored with the manosphere and internet porn.

The transition to renewable energy systems presents unprecedented challenges for power system reliability and financial stability during the integration of clean energy sources. AI technology transforms the ability of utilities and investors and technologists to predict renewable energy output while maintaining grid stability and securing funding for advanced energy infrastructure. The panel unites experts from the technology and finance sectors with industry professionals and policymakers to examine AI's practical effects on future energy systems.

John Hagel will be signing copies of “The Journey Beyond Fear” at the SXSW Bookstore.

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.

Following How to Get the Job: Building a Career in Music, FTS will open doors for a casual mixer and industry networking session. FTS team members will be on the ground alongside panelists Sofia Martinez (WME) and Philip Payne (Plan A Consulting). With Philip serving as the professor behind FTS' Music Business Foundations program and Sofia being an alumni of the program herself, this will be a good-spirited community meet-up where badge-holders from across the music industry can connect, swap stories, and chop it up about their individual pathways into the space.

Jenna Cole is a Newcastle-based Afrobeats artist, songwriter and producer creating globally-minded music from the heart of Whitley Bay. Blending warm vocals with infectious rhythms and soulful melodies, her sound moves between Afrobeats, R&B and Pop, delivering records that feel both intimate and energetic.

A boy discovers he can control the global telephone system by whistling a magic tone. Born blind and yearning for connection, his early obsession with the telephone sparks a subculture that shapes the future of hacking and technology.

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.

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.

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.

"Daughters of the Forest" is a story of entanglements: between humans and mushrooms; the visible and the invisible; generational knowledge and modern science. This sci-fi documentary invites us to reconsider the experiences of both human and non-human inhabitants of our world. We follow Lis and Juli, two young scientists from indigenous communities that have long lived in symbiosis with the many mushrooms in their regions. The world they know is changing, and their pursuits are threatened by deforestation, lack of opportunity, and loss. Still, they share how mushrooms show us different possibilities of coexistence, helping them overcome obstacles to reshape their lives and futures.

Gulay Ozkan will be signing copies of “The Age of Sameness: A Continuous Life Shaped by Human Creativity” at the SXSW Bookstore.

AI scientist, entrepreneur, and investor Rana el Kaliouby has devoted her life’s work to humanizing technology before it dehumanizes us. In this conversation with journalist and podcast host Bob Safian, Dr. el Kaliouby explains what it means to keep humans at the center of the AI revolution. The next generation of AI companies will radically shift the way we work, live, and connect. How do we innovate with intention in the race ahead? Dr el Kaliouby demonstrates how to leverage the economic opportunity of AI while unlocking human potential – and solving humanity’s most challenging problems.

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.

This is a live broadcast of the session happening in the Hilton Austin Salon HJK. The Simulcast can be viewed in any of the following locations: Hilton Austin Downtown: Salon B Austin Marriott Downtown: Waller Ballroom C JW Marriott: Salon D The LINE: Topaz Ballroom 1-3 Omni Downtown: Bridge Ballroom AB Downright Austin: Capital Room ABCD Fairmont: Next Stage (Manchester Ballroom) Innovation Clubhouse Film & TV Clubhouse Music Clubhouse SP House

Still Blank’s sound is a unique blend of shoegaze haze, folk intimacy, and emotionally raw ambient alt-rock grit. With lyrics steeped in people-watching, dreams, nature, and existential observation, their songwriting draws from both introspection and their surroundings. Ben and Jordy met by chance in Liverpool 2 years ago sparking a lightning-in-a-bottle creative partnership. What started as casual jam sessions in a basement quickly evolved, with sessions ranging from stripped-back recordings on a broken classical guitar to studio lock-ins fuelled by long walks through rural Wales and a shared commitment to imperfection. In May 2025 they performed their first show as a band at Permanent Records Roadhouse. Debut single "What About Jane" is a grungy, folk-inflected reflection on identity, societal perception, and the expectations we’re forced to confront to uncover who we really are.

"Basht. are an Irish band whose backgrounds collide into something heavy and hungry." - DORK

Rana el Kaliouby will be signing copies of “Girl Decoded: A Scientist's Quest to Reclaim Our Humanity by Bringing Emotional Intelligence to Technology” at the SXSW Bookstore.

20 years after the first season debuted in 2005, and 10 years after season two, the HBO original comedy series "The Comeback," from Michael Patrick King and Lisa Kudrow, will return again for a third and final season.

Hector Gannet are from the town of North Shields, high on England’s north east coast. Things centre on lead singer-songwriter Aaron Duff whose compositions draw closely on his beloved home terrain. Yet Hector Gannet’s music – folk, rock, ancient, modern – also reaches out into the wider world. Hector Gannet have been praised by music lovers from Chris Packham to Sam Fender, while Uncut magazine acclaimed the band as “North Shields’ answer to Crazy Horse”. There have been live dates with artists from Elbow, Sea Power to Lindisfarne, Richard Thompson & Kathryn Williams – & massive shows with Sam Fender at the vast North Eastern shrine that is St James’ Park football ground. Hector Gannet have drawn pleasing reactions. On BBC 6 Music, musician and broadcaster Tom Robinson greeted a “band of exceptional talent”. In a **** review, MOJO magazine saluted the “pointedly political, natural-world-advocating folk rock” of their The Land Belongs To Us album. Louder Than War website put Hector Gannet among 25 bands to change your life. Forthcoming album includes rousing soul sermons which blend their North Eastern heart with touches of Dexy’s, Style Council-period Weller and a bit of the Boss

Join actor Billy Magnussen and the co-founder of his production company HappyBad Bungalow, alongside representatives from artist-led companies Madhouse Films and Not Your Daddy’s Films, for a candid conversation on building and sustaining a company as an artist.

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

Join us to explore the bleeding edge. Strange ideas, emerging research, and projects that don’t quite fit anywhere else yet. The conversation is intentionally cross-disciplinary and open to ideas from any industry or domain.

Using the scripted podcast Red Weather as a focused case study, this session explores how narrative audio is developed from script to final performance, and why podcasts have become a powerful, creator-driven pathway for original IP. With creator Rider Strong and key cast members, the panel examines writing, performance, and collaboration, with a focus on practical, on-location recording in real environments — redwoods, diners, and moving cars — and how physical space shapes immersive audio storytelling.

No art form encapsulates the shifting landscape of media from the 20th to 21st centuries quite like television. What started out as 3 broadcast networks derived from radio has grown into a global juggernaut of content consumption. How has casting for scripted series morphed and changed alongside the gargantuan changes in how audiences watch television? How has the workflow of casting augmented in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic? How is casting for television unique and distinct from casting for feature films? Three of Hollywood's top casting directors are here to answer your questions.

As streaming reshapes how music is experienced, functional audio—designed to boost focus, mood, and behavior—is redefining where and how music matters. From classrooms to clinics to retail, neuroscience-backed compositions are driving emotional outcomes and creating measurable improvements in learning, productivity, and sentiment. This panel explores how composers, researchers, and platforms are creating purpose-built music that now outperforms major label artists—financially and functionally—on DSPs and B2B services.

Emma Grede, serial entrepreneur and multiple-time billion-dollar brand founder, joins Alison Furman, PwC US Consumer Markets Industry Partner, and Dallas Dolen, PwC US Technology, Media & Telecommunications Industry Partner, for an engaging panel discussion on how culture and commerce collide to create the next billion-dollar product category.

As data becomes the raw material of modern life, how do we ensure it's collected, shared, and used in ways that build, not break, trust? This structured meet-up invites technologists , policymakers, and community advocates to explore responsible data practices across industries. Together, we’ll reflect on the disappearance of public data, rising mistrust in institutions, and what it means to build for integrity, transparency, and equity. Participants will share challenges and insights, contribute to a collective best practices, and connect with others shaping the future of ethical data use.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do you like discussions about art, comedy and music? So do we! Join two Emmy Award© winning brothers (for Dick In A Box, don't get too excited) as they discuss their work together with The Lonely Island, Electric Guest and a gang of other topics probably. Be there or be square, nerd!

For years, the entertainment industry has focused on streaming metrics like subscriber counts and churn. But that doesn’t tell the full story of success today. In this SXSW conversation, Matt Strauss and Andy Cohen explore how entertainment is evolving beyond platforms - building fandoms, driving cultural conversation, and creating immersive experiences that turn shows into worlds, viewers into participants, and shared culture into the center of what comes next.

Join Your Rich BFF Vivian Tu for a live-taping of her podcast, Networth & Chill, where she gets up close and personal about the good, bad, and ugly of how money impacts our lives. In this special episode on the SXSW Featured stage, Vivian will interview Governor Gavin Newsom about why politics matters for our pocketbooks.

When features compete, feeling wins. In categories defined by parity and endless choice, functional differentiation is rarely enough. This panel explores how brand meaning, storytelling, and cultural connection transform products into emotional experiences that drive preference. Bringing together leaders across industries, the conversation examines how identity, memory, and participation influence purchase decisions.

By most accounts Jackson Kerchis has had an unusual career path: he launched a (failed) fintech startup, created the world's first major in happiness, lived 4 months as a Zen monk, spent 2 years in management, and then founded a consulting firm researching happiness at work. This session combines the art of Zen with insights from the social sciences to help you craft a new way of work. Even if you don't have your "dream job," you'll learn the ingredients for what makes for an engaging and satisfying work experience.

You made a great film. Now what? With streamers scaling back, traditional buyers pulling out, and theatrical costs soaring, indie filmmakers are left navigating a broken and uncertain distribution pipeline. This session explores bold, alternative release strategies—grassroots outreach, community-driven campaigns, eventized theatrical runs, digital-first models, and more—that are helping meaningful, niche stories find their audiences. We’ll examine the macro industry shifts behind the disruption and spotlight the innovative approaches rewriting the independent film playbook.

​Today’s leading creators aren’t just entertaining; they’re teaching and sharing information. From wellness challenges and cohort-based coaching to digital courses and paid memberships, creator-led learning has become one of the most sustainable ways to grow audience, revenue, and build community.

It’s no secret that today’s media landscape is more fractured than ever. As trust in legacy media declines, people are consuming news in less traditional ways and, instead, often turn to content creators for the latest news, commentary, and connection. But how can they balance influence and responsibility in such a fast-paced digital ecosystem?

Immigration is a contentious and tumultuous topic these days. But the contributions of global talent are clear: Immigrants make up only 15% of the U.S. population, but 40% of Nobel science laureates and 44% of tech unicorn founders. Tom Zhang made his way from a small town in rural China to an Ivy League PhD and an Austin-based robotics startup. Doug Rand has helped global talent navigate the immigration system as a senior government official, co-founder of Boundless, and now head of a philanthropic fund. While many recent immigration policies may create obstacles for global founders, there are still several viable pathways to obtain a visa and start a company in the U.S. Come learn how America can remain the top destination for great immigrant entrepreneurs.

Congrats, you can release a song in 10 minutes. Now do that every week, promote it constantly, and hope the algorithm’s in a good mood. Everyone celebrates accessibility, but nobody talks about how creators are stuck in a never-ending cycle of release, promote, repeat, with fewer results. What happens when the platforms encourage constant output, but discovery is increasingly unpredictable and unsustainable? Is the current system helping artists succeed, or just keeping them busy? The volume is up, so how do we tune into what really resonates?

Based on the “mind-expanding” AI variety show that sold out in NYC, LA, and CDMX, and fresh off of runs at Meta Connect, Disney, and Unilever, IT WRITES ITSELF is “an AI creativity workshop for people who hate workshops.” Part playground, part performance, it’s an interactive mash-up of AI experiments, games, stories and surprises tailored to the folks in the room, resulting in a fun, funny, weird, and occasionally existential workshop like none other. You’ll leave with your brain rewired, curiosity lit up, and a newfound way to explore AI that’s actually fun.

What can a 65-ton dinosaur teach us about the climate crisis and how we care for our health today? In this dynamic session, world-renowned paleontologist Dr. Kenneth Lacovara, who discovered Dreadnoughtus – one of the largest land animals to ever walk the Earth; and bestselling physician-scientist Dr. William Li, explore how the fossils hold urgent lessons for our future. From the extinction of giants like Dreadnoughtus to fossilized evidence of diseases like cancer, they reveal how Earth's deep past can help us understand modern threats to humans – and what we can do about them.

AI can be your most powerful productivity tool… or a shortcut to cognitive decline. Neuroscientist Dr. Sahar Yousef and AI education company CEO Greg Shove debate the ultimate question: “AI feels like borrowing 30 IQ points, but will it ultimately make us dumber?” They will share new, unpublished UC Berkeley data showing that most “AI augmentation” is shallow cognitive offloading in disguise and outline a research-backed playbook for HOW you can leverage AI without losing what makes you most valuable: your mind.

This session gives attendees the opportunity to hear more from the leaders behind the extremely talented startups that won each of the nine categories at SXSW Pitch 2026. Be inspired and amazed by these incredible entrepreneuers from aroud the world, as they showcase their winning ideas and shine a spotlight on the most innovative technologies of tomorrow.

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

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

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Education, Music Tech, Management.

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

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

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

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

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Audio/Production (Recording/Mixing/Mastering), Songwriting, Touring.

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

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in A&R, Marketing/PR, Sales & Sponsorships, Streaming & Programming, Management, Live Events, Data, Merchandise, Media/Journalism, Startups, Songwriting.

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

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

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

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

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Live Events, Management, Women in Music.

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

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

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

Before there were prize wheels, badges, and leaderboards, there was a scientist and his dogs. Join gamification experts Adam Messing and Kinley Clifford to talk about the common misconceptions around gamification and how understanding behavioral and motivational science is the key to unlocking it. This interactive workshop will be jam-packed with fun and useful exercises and games.

Neural interfaces are entering a new phase where AI algorithms read brain signals in real-time and power adaptive feedback loops. This panel convenes OpenBCI and cross-disciplinary experts to show how AI turns raw brain signals into actionable insights, powers real-time closed-loop haptics and visuals, and scales from lab demos to consumer and research-grade neurotech. We’ll dissect technical hurdles, safety imperatives, and the roadmap to trustworthy neurotechnology.

Calling all Trainers! From Kanto to Paldea, this high-energy Pokémon Meet Up is your chance to connect, cosplay, and geek out over everything Pokémon. Whether you're a day-one fan, a content creator, or just Poké-curious, join us for a fun, inclusive space to trade stories, show off projects, and celebrate the game that captured the world. Let’s unite, evolve, and catch some unforgettable memories together!

What if the real world had hidden story portals waiting to be found? This panel explores an ongoing collaboration between Meow Wolf and Niantic that uses AR, geolocation, and immersive storytelling to transform physical places into layered, interactive experiences. From sidewalks to city parks, spaces become stages for narrative discovery, inviting people to move, play, and connect in new ways. Dennis Hwang (Niantic), Vince Kadlubek (Meow Wolf), and Scott Stein (CNET) join moderator Kati Murphy to share what happens when imagination meets infrastructure—and the streets start telling stories.

In partnership with SXSW Film & TV Festival 2026, Redbreast Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey invites you to join in an unforgettable cinematic experience. Accompanied by an iconic Redbreast cocktail and sweet treats, we’re shining a light on five exceptional short films, hand-picked by award-winning Irish actor Andrew Scott. Bold and original, these five shorts represent the best of what the artform has to offer. Attendees must be over 21 and be SXSW badge holders. Entry is not guaranteed and permitted on a first come first serve basis.

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 Documentary Filmmaking.

This panel builds on last year’s exploration of incubation models to spotlight how celebrities today are acting as startup founders, investors, and brand builders. We’ll unpack the good, bad and ugly details of celebrity‑backed ventures—from Skims to Goop—exploring brand fit, media power, product execution, partnership pitfalls, and long‑term viability. Attendees will gain actionable insights into how celebrity involvement amplifies opportunity… and risk.

Why do we talk to our cats, feel guilty throwing away childhood toys, or bond with our robot vacuum? Scientist and bestselling author Justin Gregg reveals how anthropomorphism, one of humanity's oldest psychological quirks, secretly influences nearly every decision we make. Drawing on cutting-edge research from his latest book Humanish, Justin explores our universal tendency to see human-like qualities in everything around us, and shows how understanding this bias can transform our relationships with animals, technology, and each other.

"Summer of ’94" reveals the wild rise of the U.S. Men’s National Team on the road to the 1994 World Cup—and the history they were never meant to make. With no league and no roadmap, a ragtag group of players and an unlikely coach endured a grueling two-year training camp, hoping simply not to embarrass their nation at the first-ever World Cup on American soil. Armed with camcorders, the players documented it all, capturing raw moments as underdogs grew into future legends. Featuring never-before-seen footage and new interviews with Alexi Lalas, Cobi Jones, Tony Meola, and coach Bora Milutinović, the film shares how chaos, chemistry, and grit forged a brotherhood that changed US soccer forever.

Los Angeles is a vibrant playground for innovation where data, design, and community imagination converge. Powered by cutting-edge Earth-observing satellite systems, digital twins are transforming how LA plans for resilience, equity, and the joy of the games. Join us to explore groundbreaking projects—from wildfire recovery to creating green space networks—that leverage user-friendly immersive technology to connect AI, local stories, and spatial data. Discover how these immersive tools are shaping a smarter, more resilient city ready for the Olympics and the complex challenges ahead.

The creator economy is demanding. Success requires adapting to constant shifts in algorithms and platform policies, as well as mastering how to build a loyal community and creating content that truly moves, engages, and stands out in a saturated feed. Join creator marketing leaders from Epidemic Sound and Patreon for this hands-on workshop focused on translating expertise into sustainable income. You will learn and immediately apply proven strategies for compelling storytelling, community growth, and leveraging music to maximize your content's success. Laptops are required for this session.

Startup founders face relentless pressure, emotional volatility, and decision fatigue. This session explores how intentional psychedelic experiences, combined with integration practices, can expand perspective, dissolve ego-driven blind spots, and strengthen leadership presence. Drawing from The Mind Shift Network’s work with executives and entrepreneurs, we’ll examine how psychedelics catalyze authentic innovation, emotional intelligence, and purpose-driven company culture.

Most trend reports feel like homework. Not this one.

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.

Where to next? This casual meet up is for SXSW attendees who enjoy exploring the world, swapping travel stories, and sharing recommendations for their favorite destinations. If you've traveled to Austin, don't be shy – come say hi, meet fellow travelers, make new connections, and maybe even get inspiration for a future trip.

For 30 years the X Games has been the sports symbol of counter-culture and extending the limits of what humans can achieve athletically. What has historically been an individual sport is now evolving into a year-round, team-based global league, architected for long-term athlete equity, sustained fandom, and scalable franchise value with the formation of X Games League. Join Annie Lokesh, one of the architects of the growth of the WNBA, and 30-time X Games medalist Bob Burnquist for a candid fireside conversation on building modern sports properties at the intersection of media, culture, and competition.

Come connect with fellow creators and curious minds exploring XR Film. Whether you’re already making immersive work or just excited by what’s possible, join us to mingle, share ideas, and spark conversations about the future of XR storytelling.

"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.

Morra Aarons-Mele will be signing copies of “Anxious Achiever” at the SXSW Bookstore.

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.

Blah Spa are a dance punk band from Austin, Texas. Funky bass grooves, angular post-punk guitar, and infectious hooks combine for a feverish energy that is both raw and boisterously fun. Blending diverse genres and styles all in name of having a good time, the band excels at delivering chaotic, party-like live performances and creating song structures that cheekily defy convention with unique charm and gripping abandon.

Culture doesn’t just influence what people watch — it shapes what they do next. In this fireside chat, NBCUniversal and Taco Bell unpack how premium storytelling, live experiences, and cultural relevance are shaping marketing strategies and driving real business outcomes. Through real-world examples, they’ll explore how the brand is challenging traditional approaches, breaking category conventions, and showing up boldly and authentically to build brand love in moments that matter. Attendees will leave with practical insights for translating cultural engagement into measurable impact.

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.

Jenna Cole is a Newcastle-based Afrobeats artist, songwriter and producer creating globally-minded music from the heart of Whitley Bay. Blending warm vocals with infectious rhythms and soulful melodies, her sound moves between Afrobeats, R&B and Pop, delivering records that feel both intimate and energetic.

You know that moment you realised Lady Gaga was named after a Queen song? MEEK is kind of the musical and stylistic culmination of that connecting glue, the secret chemical equation that bonds them. She is walking class war, musical defiance and the return of glam rock at its most instantly and commercially appealing. She’s dancing on the gay bar bar-top with a sparkler fizzing in your cocktail.

When Delaney's boyfriend leaves town to shoot a splashy zombie movie, she becomes obsessed with a character she’s auditioning for after she learns the producers think she has an "ugly cry." But when she tries to make her cry prettier, her performance suffers. Can she contort herself, and her face, to have the perfect cry? Her attempts to change herself cause Young Delaney to haunt her, catapulting present day Delaney deeper down the rabbit hole. She isolates herself and grows increasingly delusional, and interested in physical fixes to her acting problem. How can she make the world see her as she sees herself? How can she become and become and become? She will become famous. Or die trying.

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.

Manuela Seve will be signing copies of “Becoming an Alpha, and Letting it All Go” at the SXSW Bookstore.

"Apolo" follows the journey of a family formed by a transgender couple, revealing the nuances of love, daily life, and the constant struggle for recognition and respect. The documentary offers an intimate look into their family dynamics, inviting us to rethink our notions of affection, care, and society itself. As we accompany Apolo’s pregnancy, we are led to reflect on the challenges and dramas faced by the couple — Isis Broken and Lourenzo Gabriel. The father is the one giving birth, and society is not yet ready for that reality. The feature-length documentary marks the directorial debut of actress Tainá Müller and trans woman and musician Isis Broken.

An offbeat comedy about friendship, purpose, and trying to grow something real in a city built to keep people apart. Cory is a lonely, doomscrolling thirty-something whose most consistent relationship is with his Instagram algorithm. His apartment? An emotionally vacant, sterile, void. His fridge? Mostly Celsius. And his idea of connection is dodging calls from the one person who still tries: Fox, a soft-hearted, ex-con with terrible advice rooted in institutional paranoia and his love of films. Everything shifts when Cory has a run-in, literally, with Plantman, a rogue horticultural crusader armed with a mysterious dossier of negligent plant owners.

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”.

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.

Justin Gregg will be signing copies of “Humanish - What Talking to Your Cat or Naming Your Car Reveals About the Uniquely Human Need to Humanize” at the SXSW Bookstore.

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.

UCB’s signature improv juggernaut is a live comedy show with an all-star cast of comedians from film, television, and your favorite streaming services performing improv inspired by true stories from a surprise celebrity guest. ASSSSCAT has played to critical acclaim and sold-out audiences across the country.

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.

Reality TV doesn’t just create stars — it creates superfans. Join NBCUniversal and one of their beloved stars for an insider look at how unscripted storytelling turns cast moments, catchphrases, and cultural momentum into full-blown fandoms. From Bravo’s most talked-about franchises to live reunions to Peacock’s social buzz, and IRL fan experiences, this session pulls back the curtain on how obsession is built — and why audiences keep coming back for more. Discover how talent-driven moments spark conversation, fuel community, and open the door for brands to authentically plug into fandom.

In an era where TikTok virality can catapult unknown artists to millions of streams overnight, the music industry faces a critical question: how do we transform fleeting moments into lasting careers? This panel brings together industry experts to lift the lid on viral streams and explore strategic frameworks that separate one-hit wonders from career artists. Drawing from real-world case studies, the discussion will provide actionable insights for artists, managers, and industry professionals looking to build careers that transcend trending sounds and create lasting cultural impact.

Join us for a live conversation with research professor Brené Brown and organizational psychologist Adam Grant, where they'll explore their shared curiosities and make a special announcement.

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.

International Chess Master, Chess.com co-founder, and leading voice for the global chess movement, Danny Rensch will take the stage at SXSW to discuss his newly released memoir. Described as Educated meets The Queen’s Gambit, the book offers a gripping, deeply personal account of his childhood inside an abusive cult and the extraordinary role chess played in helping him survive, rebuild, and ultimately change the trajectory of his life.

Jack Conte is CEO and co-founder of Patreon, a media and community platform where creators give their biggest fans access to exclusive works and experiences. He founded Patreon in 2013 with Sam Yam (CTO), driven by the belief that creators should be paid for the value they provide to the world. Jack leads the team on their mission to build tools that give Patreon’s 300,000+ creators freedom, independence and ownership over their work and the communities they build. Since launching, Patreon has sent over $10 billion to creators.

In today’s content-driven landscape, brands can go viral in ways they never intended. This panel explores the unpredictable nature of online virality through the lens of brands like Nuuly and Graza. Panelists will unpack what it takes to lead with creativity, clarity, and cultural fluency under pressure—and how chaotic moments can become opportunities for connection, growth, and relevance. Expect a rare behind-the-scenes look at the modern social media playbook these experts are writing in real time.

Too often, AI feels like something that’s done to us, not with us or for us. It will affect every aspect of our lives. But AI is neither poison nor panacea. It is and will be what we make it. Now is the moment to shape the future of AI for people. This panel will explore how we build the ecosystem and infrastructure to ensure that people will benefit the most from AI. Experts in AI, philanthropy, and advocacy, will offer a new way of thinking about AI that moves from Silicon Valley’s mantra of “move fast and break things” to an alternative vision that centers our humanity.

What makes a piece of journalism ripe for adaptation? As headlines spark conversations across social and in everyday life, studios are attuned to how audiences respond—often using that response to guide their next project. But it’s publishers that are uniquely positioned to bring these stories to the screen, thanks to their unparalleled access to journalists and sources.

In an era obsessed with performance metrics, the brands that win are the ones people actually trust. This panel brings together trusted leaders to explore how culture, storytelling, and emotional connection function as economic infrastructure shaping loyalty, pricing power, and long-term brand growth. From redefining value to reviving legacy narratives, these CMOs will examine how trust is built, how cultural relevance compounds over time, and why the brands that endure treat emotion as strategy not decoration.

This panel discussion celebrates ASCAP composers with films screening atSXSW 2026. We’ll unearth new tools, strategies, discuss biggest film and music trends, and how they are reshaping the world of film composition in this new era of cinema. Attendees will witness a cue bycue breakdown, as each composer showcases clips from their films at SXSW andfavorite musical moments. Afterward, select attendees can meet with composers for advice, guidance andfeedback on their work. Moderated by acclaimed composer Bear McCreary (Battlestar Galactica, The Walking Dead, Godzilla: King ofthe Monsters).

Across boardrooms, courtrooms, and communities, a growing wave of men are standing up for reproductive rights and changing conversations around abortion and maternal health. In this session, men across law, business and health advocacy explain why they’ve turned their platforms, personal stories and convictions into action. From expanding access to care, to shifting workplace culture, to fighting for safer childbirth, they actively participate in the movement for health, equity and freedom. With clarity, urgency and humor, this conversation calls in male audiences, giving them ways to show up.

Launching a brand? It’s not just what you build. It’s how you talk about it that determines take-off or stall. Strategic communications are your launch control pad. Know what to say and when to say it? Make the right connection and you’re flying. Join this interactive session to discover why comms is your brand’s biggest advantage at launch and beyond. Bring your challenges, get expert feedback and leave ready to make your brand soar.

The increasing number and brightness of satellite constellations in Earth's orbit are significantly impacting ground-based and optical astronomy. So how do we balance humanity's expansion into space while protecting our study of the stars from Earth? Join the conversation on a sustainable future for space and hear from the experts on the front lines—astronomers, satellite companies, and space industry pioneers—as they discuss collaborative solutions to mitigate satellite brightness and preserve our night sky.

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Future of Work, Nonprofits, "Diversity, Equity & Inclusion".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meeting with this mentor is highly recommended if you're interested in Ethics, Funding, Nonprofits, Storytelling.

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

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

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

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

Today’s creators aren’t just hosting shows – they’re building media empires. In this live conversation, leading voices in podcasting share how they’ve taken their shows to the next level and grown into full-fledged creator brands. They’ll discuss how audience connection, creative control, smart monetization, and business strategy fuel their growth as they scale from indie success to industry icons.

Join creator and NYT bestselling author Elyse Myers for a candid conversation on authenticity, mental wellness, and brand continuity, moderated by acclaimed creator strategist Antonia Alakija. Elyse shares how she protects her voice, navigates imposter syndrome, and embraces her neurodivergence to sustain a recognizable, reliable brand. Drawing from her bestseller That’s a Great Question, I’d Love to Tell You, she brings humor and honesty, showing how embracing lived experiences helps creators stay grounded amid constant digital change.

Massive datasets, like those in astronomy, are the lifeblood of AI innovation. The panel, led by researchers from the NSF-Simons AI Institute for Cosmic Origins, will discuss how AI is transforming astronomy to unlock new insights into the origins of our universe. They will present visualizations showing state-of-the-art astronomical datasets built on flagship observations and supercomputing simulations of the Universe. They will discuss how these data can be used to develop novel AI methods that accelerate discovery, expanding the frontiers of AI possibility inside and outside astronomy.

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 Funding/Artist Support.

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

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.

Take a break from the buzz of SXSW at our second annual Tech-Free Creativity and Connection Meet Up — Something to Write Home About edition.

Libraries are books and so much more! We will spotlight how public and national libraries are launchpads for emerging tech, from AI to XR, while staying rooted in community trust and accessibility. Hear from library innovators and creative technologists co-creating inclusive spaces for play, learning, and critical tech discourse. We’ll explore libraries bridging the gap between innovation and equity, and how YOU can partner with them to build meaningful, community-driven projects. Expect a lively conversation that challenges assumptions, shares real-world collaborations, and sparks new ideas.

Founders, investors, corporates & service providers from all sectors: come plug into the French Tech ecosystem at the Tech Made in France Meet Up! France is now Europe’s #1 tech ecosystem, home to some of the world's finest innovators and companies. Let’s unlock transatlantic opportunities & collaborations!

This session will spotlight the increasing momentum of the creator economy and how creators have become role models to younger generations. While most companies remain focused on reaching Gen Z, we’ll discuss how brands will need a fresh creator marketing strategy that merges culture, authenticity, and relevance if they expect to break through with digitally native Gen Alpha, as the oldest approach adulthood in the coming years.

Audiences are increasingly turning to content creators for everything from quick news recaps to in-depth explainers, raising urgent questions about standards and credibility. Is this shift the future of journalism or the erosion of it? Building on original data from the Pew-Knight Initiative and insights from the creator economy, this session will explore how the definition of “journalism” is evolving in real time. We will go beyond debate to identify the tools, norms, and strategic shifts needed to preserve public trust in a creator-driven information ecosystem.

Mainstream streaming focuses on personalized algorithms and passive listening. Meanwhile, some niche platforms embrace a participatory model where superfans don’t just consume music—they interact with it, shape it, and financially support creators in real time. These platforms embed tipping, live chat, and fan community engagement into the experience. This panel explores how fandom-driven models are redefining streaming and how “social radio” tech can help mainstream DSPs catch up. What if streaming became social, not solitary?

As AI accelerates, demand for data centers has sparked a modern-day gold rush reshaping land use, energy, and regional economies. Drawing on her experience developing large-scale projects in high-growth markets, Anita Verma-Lallian explains why certain regions are emerging as AI infrastructure hubs while others face real constraints. She breaks down what drives site selection, from zoning and entitlements to power, water, and community impact, cutting through the hype to reveal where the true opportunities lie and how communities can realistically position themselves for long-term investment.

The global internet, media, and technology industries are entering a new era—one that will unlock more than $1.3 trillion in incremental revenue by 2029. But as silos disappear and competition intensifies, the rules of growth are being rewritten. In this session, Michael J. Wolf, Founder and CEO of Activate Consulting, presents the firm’s 2026 Tech & Media Outlook, revealing how leading companies must rethink strategy, product, and consumer engagement to stay ahead. Learn which trends will define the next phase of the digital economy—and why winning in 2026 will depend on owning attention across every moment of the consumer’s day.

What if your dream job doesn’t exist? So you create it! During this interactive session, award-winning designer and creative educator Julie Bonner shares how she built a joyful, sustainable career by making a living from her diverse interests. Through branding, community, and creative entrepreneurship, Julie shows how to create a clear professional story and turn multiple interests into real income.

As we shift deeper into today’s Experience Economy, people increasingly want to go beyond merely memorable to highly meaningful, deeply transporting, and even truly transformative experiences. B. Joseph Pine II, author of the 2026 book The Transformation Economy: Guiding Customers to Achieve Their Aspirations, shows why this is so and how brands can help customers flourish by guiding them to become who they want to become, whether that’s improving wellbeing, increasing prosperity, developing knowledge, or finding purpose.

Federal contracts promise big opportunities—but they come with real trade-offs. In this candid session, Dr. Paul Campbell of Brown Ventures Group breaks down the realities of federal contracting for entrepreneurs. Learn how the process works, where founders get stuck, and how to evaluate whether federal opportunities truly align with your business goals—before you sign on the dotted line.

Mental health is now a make-or-break factor in workforce productivity, retention, and culture. But traditional offerings like meditation apps and traditional EAPs often aren’t enough on their own. Many employers are looking beyond “one-size-fits-all” support toward more comprehensive, outcomes-oriented approaches that take a broader view of mental health. This panel explores how forward-thinking organizations are evolving their mental health strategies - from stronger navigation and personalized care to bold, evidence-backed emerging treatments (including ketamine-assisted therapy, stellate ganglion block, and other novel interventions) - and what it takes to implement innovation responsibly at scale.

With a name as regal as their ambition, KNO are reshaping boundaries as they set out to release their debut album in April 2026.

Mike Hyzy will be signing copies of “Gamification for Product Excellence” at the SXSW Bookstore.

Two powerhouses unite for an unforgettable evening of stories at SXSW Comedy Fest. The Moth—whose live storytelling events and beloved podcast have brought over 65,000 true personal stories to audiences worldwide—partners with Comic Relief to present a special Moth Mainstage show featuring a cast of comedians. As Comic Relief marks 40 years of harnessing laughter for good, and The Moth nears 30 years of connecting the world through the power of true personal stories -- this show brings together storytellers who understand that humor can shift perspectives, build bridges, and inspire action. Expect raw, hilarious, and deeply human tales.

Hartlepool’s Marketplace have quickly become ones to watch, turning heads with their infectious indie pop earworms and magnetic personalities. Known for their engaging live shows and playful DIY videos, they’ve built a loyal fanbase from the ground up. Their latest EP, Marketplace Mean Business (released 6 June 2025), marked a significant step forward, earning support from BBC Radio 1, Radio X and BBC Introducing, alongside editorial playlisting from Apple Music and TIDAL. This momentum has translated into a packed run of live dates and festival appearances, including The Great Escape, Kendal Calling, Y Not Festival and Supersonic Paris. With tastemaker backing already in place, support slots with artists including Alfie Templeman, Swim Deep, The Lottery Winners and Abbie Ozard, and sold-out headline shows in Manchester, London, Leeds and their hometown of Hartlepool, Marketplace are entering their next chapter with confidence. Supported by the PPL Momentum Accelerator Fund, the band are currently working on new music with long-term producer Chad Rodgers, alongside confirmed appearances at SXSW in Austin, Texas, the New Colossus Festival in New York, and a Spring 2026 UK tour.

Danny Rensch will be signing copies of “Dark Squares” at the SXSW Bookstore.

A 21 year old singer/songwriter/producer based in Sunderland, England. Signed to Fiction Records and previously worked with Miles Kane and Hugo White (The Maccabees(

This horror anthology tackles the modern work landscape through four timely perspectives – the hustle culture of an MLM, the endless repetitiveness of a food delivery driver, the online horrors of a content moderator, and the unionization of a familiar-feeling coffee shop. "Grind" shows what it means to be a worker in a world defined by wealth inequality and ruled by endlessly greedy oligarchs, one not so far removed from our own. This is a film for anyone who's ever hated their job, had a bad boss, or felt taken advantage of at work. In other words, it's a film for all of us.

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.

The latest collaboration between Bob Odenkirk, "John Wick" creator Derek Kolstad and "Nobody" producer Marc Provissiero, director Ben Wheatley’s kinetic neo-Western stars Odenkirk as an unassuming substitute sheriff with a troubled past who, after moving to a small, sleepy town, responds to a bank robbery and unknowingly uncovers something far more explosive.

What happened in Austin and in Nashville in the late 60s and early 70s was nothing less than a tectonic shift in country music. From Tennessee to Texas, musicians were breaking rules and flouting tradition in what the industry would come to label - Outlaw Country. Featuring over 120 recording artists, songwriters and producers; including the legends that created the sound and the scene and the current stars and emerging artists that are taking it forward.

Soul-country singer-songwriter Alex Lambert is a Fort Worth-bred artist whose music is defined by country storytelling and timeless soul. Recently signed to Big Loud Texas, the buzzed-about imprint co-founded by Miranda Lambert and Jon Randall, Alex brings a rich, distinct sound shaped by classic country, R&B, and pop influences. Raised on everything from Willie Nelson to Michael Jackson, and later inspired by soul greats like Sam Cooke, Bill Withers and D’Angelo, Lambert developed his voice and musicianship early, learning guitar at age eight from his grandfather, a singer, songwriter and producer himself. Drawing influence from artists like John Legend, Amos Lee, Kacey Musgraves and Leon Bridges, Lambert’s debut release with Big Loud Texas, “Shoot Me Down,” serves as a statement of intent and identity. He takes his new music on the road this spring, joining Ty Myers on tour.

Gotham Comedy Club is one of New York’s most popular stand-up destinations. For almost 30 years, their coveted stage has hosted national acts and fostered generations of young comedians into heavyweights who still call Gotham home. Tonight they're back at the fest, bringing some of Gotham’s stars to the stage at SXSW. Full lineup coming soon!

In 1980, an ingenious boobie-trapped ticking time bomb - filled with 1,000 pounds of dynamite - was wheeled in the front doors of Harvey’s Wagon Wheel Casino in Lake Tahoe. Along with the bomb was a note demanding $3 million within 24 hours. While the bomb squad attempts to disarm the explosive, the FBI races the clock to deliver the ransom and simultaneously catch the extortionists. Nothing goes as planned, and each step uncovers darker secrets and suspicions of a deeper motive.

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.

#WhileBlack is an urgent documentary that centers on one of the most viral videos of our time: George Floyd’s murder, seen 1.4 billion times in 12 days, sparking protests in over 2,000 cities worldwide. With exclusive access to Darnella Frazier and others like Diamond Reynolds, who livestreamed Philando Castile’s killing, the film reveals how social platforms and corporations profit from viral Black trauma, while survivors endure lasting psychological and physical danger. #WhileBlack is a powerful meditation on modern witnessing, exposing the human cost of viral footage while asking urgent questions about race, technology, and accountability.

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.

Macon Blair's third feature is a raucous and wildly entertaining descent into madness. Dave Franco and O’Shea Jackson Jr. are perfectly (mis)matched as Mark and Davis, the fumbling circumstantial chaperones in charge of transporting the increasingly psychotic Sheridan (a brilliant Mason Thames). Phenomenal supporting turns from Nicholas Braun, Peter Dinklage, and Kiernan Shipka round out the ensemble cast, each more unexpected and bizarre than the last. Blair treats us to his signature absurdist sense of humor and douses it with gasoline and psychedelics, crafting an uncanny world where the worst intentions net the highest yields and the open road is full of Shitheads.

When Jessica Lipki discovers a severed human finger in her bowl of chili, she recognizes an opportunity to seize control of her stagnating life. Jess blackmails the regionally-beloved fast-food chain for $100,000 in return that she and her blissfully ignorant husband, Ron, keep quiet about the incident. Unbeknownst to Jess, her stunt has caught the attention of "the" Blake Junior, the plutocratic founder behind the "Blake Junior’s" food empire. He recruits his ex-marine buddy, Dave, to investigate Jess and discover the truth behind the chili finger...

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.

An undeniable force, married Nashville-based singer-songwriters MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge form the musical partnership Thelma & James. Not realizing the best writing partner was right under their noses the whole time, their first co-write in over a decade produced “Happy Ever After You,” which earned Gold certification in Canada. Evolving organically from an impromptu video that earned praise from fellow artists like John Mayer, Luke Combs, Brandi Carlile and more, the song has since garnered over 20 million streams since its release. The pair signed to Big Loud Records in 2025 are doubling down on their fortuitous new musical chapter with the release of debut EP Starting Over and most recent “If You Ain't In Love By Now.”

Alina Pash is a Ukrainian artist now based in Los Angeles, building a bold new live experience in the U.S.—a mystic rap-based opera that fuses deep-root Ukrainian ritual, ethnic vocal power, and modern bass/electronic production. Her performances feel like ceremony: cinematic, high-voltage, and emotionally precise—where folklore meets the club, and tradition becomes future music.

After being let go from her robotic companion start-up, Beck, an anti-social engineer, finds herself in the offices of a new company claiming to preserve a person's consciousness inside a cloud system. Her first assignment: drive the company's most valuable client, Paul, a lonely button manufacturer, to his final appointment.

Danyell Nelson Hewlett, professionally known as DJ Gotta Strut, is an open-format DJ, actor, and event producer trusted with diverse, international audiences across fashion, corporate, sports, and large-scale cultural events. Her sound blends Southern hip hop, pop, R&B, Afrobeats, dancehall, Latin crossover, and global crowd favorites, delivered with confidence, precision, and style.

EddieAngel is part of a new wave of Chicano R&B artists reshaping the sound of alternative soul in Austin and beyond. Fronted by singer-songwriter Angel Estrada, the project has steadily built momentum through emotionally grounded songwriting and a growing local fanbase.

Facebook is excited to present an unforgettable evening of stand-up comedy, where the global stage meets the SXSW stage! With 3 billion people connecting on Facebook globally every month, comedians are able to showcase their talent and grow their audience around the world. Now, we’re bringing this vibrant community to the SXSW Comedy stage. Full lineup coming soon!

"I've not stopped playing this for days" - STEVE LAMACQ, BBC RADIO 6"Authentic...really special" - BBC RADIO 6 ROUNDTABLE"Sounding Amazing" - JOHN KENNEDY, RADIO X"Stunning single" – HUW STEPHENS, BBC RADIO 6"A Spellbinding Song" - FRESH ON THE NET"Stunning and Beautiful" - GOD IS IN THE TV"One of those records that stops you in your tracks" - AMAZING RADIO"Is this the best new band in the UK?" - THE ZINE

"Leviticus" is the story of Naim and Ryan, two teenage boys living in a conservative Christian community in regional Victoria. When their attraction to each other is identified by the local pastor, the pair are subjected to a disturbing conversion ritual which unknowingly releases a violent entity that terrorizes the town. As Naim and Ryan attempt to survive the bigotry of their fellow town members, they must also defend themselves against the unleashed spiritual being that takes the form of the thing the boys desire most - each other.

Merrick Winter is a British-American songwriter based in London, bridging contemporary folk-rock with the classic American songbook. Blending the lyricism of Paul Simon with the intimacy of Elliott Smith, his intricate guitar work and cinematic storytelling have earned him a devoted transatlantic following. Following the release of The California Zephyr (2025), Winter supported Bastille and half·alive across UK and European tours, alongside dates with Dan Mangan and Tyler Ballgame. Live highlights include Roundhouse London and O2 Ritz Manchester.

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.

Curating vinyl for the random moments in life that help you forget the present.

King Cooley is a neo-soul, hip-hop artist based in Atlanta, Georgia and known for blending her warm southern-twang, certified rap bars, and captivating melodies. With a sound that’s equal parts nostalgic and forward-thinking, King Cooley’s music is an introspective journey through themes of love, self-discovery, and social change. Her breakthrough track, "Climate Change," brought critical attention to her ability to address complex issues with authenticity, gaining over 300,000 streams on Spotify. Following this success, King Cooley’s latest video, “Get Down,” has racked up over 100,000 views on Youtube and songs like “Got That” and “Reunion Season” have been featured on Netflix’s Love Is Blind tv show, and Tyler Perry’s, Sistas, on BET, respectively.

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.

Emerging as a compelling force in independent hip-hop, DDA Tink is known for emotionally layered storytelling and thought-provoking lyricism. Fusing melodic undertones with introspective bars, Tink creates music that resonates with listeners navigating growth, pain, and self-discovery. Tink is a raw and reflective voice in hip-hop, blending pain, purpose, and poetry. While delivering unfiltered truths over soulful production. With a sound grounded in authenticity and artistic vision, DDA Tink continues building a catalog that connects deeply and leaves lasting impact.

J Soulja is a powerhouse in Austin’s hip-hop scene—known for his sharp lyricism, electric performances, and trailblazing hustle. He’s rocked stages alongside stars like Wale and members of TDE, toured Texas with Curren$y, and headlined his own sold-out show in Austin.

As a close-knit family made up of music promoters, DJs, label owners and festival organisers, they’ve been regenerating jazz and jazz-influenced music culture since their 2003 conception.JRF has cooked up a session that brings the spirit of the jazz & club culture they hail from.

Mika Häkki is more well known as one of the three members in the band Monolord, who have been playing all round the world since 2015. In 2020 Mika Häkki started releasing music under his own name. What started out as a personal outlet in a singer/songwriter shape, soon switched gears as he started playing live shows and collecting musicians on the way, who started performing under the name Dark Yonder. In 2025 Mika Häkki & Dark Yonder entered a recording studio with the producer Kristoffer Ragnstam to record a full album. "Let Me Take You For A Ride", which will be out on Ella Ruth Institutet in the spring of 2026, was recorded live in just three days to capture that creative energy that the band has together. The first single "Times Are Easy" will be out on all digital platforms on March 6th.

Raised in a sunny southern California beach town, Saige Davis writes country-leaning songs straight from the heart with melodies that feel everlasting. Writing primarily on her own, she creates music that feels grounded and familiar - and yet wholly her own. Influenced by both the country classics and also Americana with a modern edge, her songs lean on acoustic guitars, simple arrangements, and lyrics that leave room to breathe. Whether written quietly at home or brought to life in the studio with producers Caleb Nelson (Mt. Joy) and Patrick Lyons (Colter Wall, Luke Grimes, Noeline Hoffman), Saige’s music shows a deep respect for timeless storytelling and feels imminent for a breakthrough in the year ahead.

Hailing from Chicago’s South Side, Ifeanyi Elswith is an R&B/Hip-hop artist known for her fearless fusion of jazz, soul, pop, house, reggae, dancehall, and her Belizean roots—crafting a sound that’s unmistakably hers. Named 1st runner-up for The Chicago Reader’s ‘Best R&B Artist’ of 2023 and a 312 Award nominee for Afro Artist of the Year, she’s been highlighted by platforms like Chicago Tribune, Vocalo, Windy City Live, and Audiotree.Ifeanyi has shared stages with artists such as Oddisee, Twista, Vic Mensa, dancehall legends Capleton and Junior Reid, and Panic! At The Disco’s Brendon Urie. Her music has reached global audiences through placements on MAX, NBC, Tubi, and in a Belikin Beer commercial in Belize. With her unique style and magnetic, pretty gyal energy, Ifeanyi isn’t just making music—she’s making waves.

VÕ.A 2000 was born and raised in the alleyways of Việt Nam. Owing to that hum of street culture, her sound is a love letter to organized chaos and unexpected softness. It’s messy. It’s alive. And it never asks for permission. Now based in Austin, VÕ.A 2000’s sets shape-shift between sweat-soaked hedonism and quiet introspection. Think: Jersey Club, Texas techno grit, and Vinahouse.

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.

lucky break is a 24-year-old New York-born indie rock artist based in San Francisco. Blending classic alt-rock, punk, and modern indie pop with a knack for homegrown radio hooks, the Biggest Thing EP marks lucky break's first official release. The collection, poised to establish the artist as a significant new voice in music, was recorded with Elliot Woodbridge (Ha Vay) in a makeshift car studio, each track offering a glimpse into the mysticism and whimsy of her expansive sonic world. And it’s just the beginning: Her full-length debut will release May 2026.

patching, the intimate debut LP from Minneapolis-based singer and songwriter runo plum, gracefully captures the contraction, expansion and release of an intense period of emotional repair, in soft-edged, radiating indie rock. The record’s unbridled sincerity isn’t anything new for runo plum, who’s been writing and quietly sharing bedroom dispatches of her intricate folk for a half-decade. During the pandemic years, she steadily caught the ears of a widening circle of listeners and began independently releasing a series of singles and EPs, all while cutting her teeth on the live side supporting Searows, Angel Olsen and Hovvdy.

Fresh from a seminal performance at All Together Now’s Last City stage, Sugaboo is set to make a statement as he has sold 450 tickets to his debut headline show in the Iconic Dublin venue Whelans. From forwarded many times WhatsApp releases to 12K monthly Spotify listeners, Sugaboo has been building a buzz in the Dublin underground. His debut mixtape “Kimmagination” released in August 2025 has garnered attention from Kneecap’s Moglai Bap who endorsed the album on instagram. When the Irish ex-Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is a follower. Lewis Capaldi is an early fan aswell and has been playing Goin Ballistic to the crowds before his arena shows on his recent UK tour. Earlier this year, Sugaboo featured on Lil Skag’s “Pilgirmmage to Kimmage,” which received Track of the Week on the Nialler9 blog. With a collaborative mixtape with Lil Skag, “Skagaboo,” on the horizon. Sugaboo’s momentum is building now. Having opened for Mik Pyro of Republic of Loose fame to a sold-out crowd in Whelan’s main room, Sugaboo has proven his live credentials. With a string of shows under his belt, having toured Ireland and the UK. Expect live versions of the tracks you’ve had on repeat, plus a few surprises. Bring the crew, bring the energy. This isn’t just a show – it’s a statement of raw energy. Dublin 12 inside the place; real bars, no industry fluff, No hype merchants, no messing just a room full of heads who’ve been watching this build from the shack days.

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.

As a rhythmic renovator of retro funk, Boogietraxx offers a lens into the discoverse that brought dance music to the masses but offers a uniquely soulful and modern twist.Born in Staten Island, NY and now living in Austin, TX for the last few years, Boogietraxx, is helmed by producer/DJ Brandon Keeks who brings an array of influences in his soundscapes that feature filter house, French touch, and filter funk.

BriTANicK is the sketch comedy duo of Brian McElhaney and Nick Kocher. They have written for "Saturday Night Live," and "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." and made a whole bunch of online sketch comedy videos. BriTANicK has performed live all over the world including sold out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Montreal Just For Laughs Festival. Don’t miss their brand new live show "dummy" that is 1/3 sketch comedy, 1/3 childhood trauma, and 3/4 them being bad at math.

DJ Casie Farrell is a rising force in the Texas electronic music scene, known for her high-energy tech house, techno, and house sets. A Houston native with deep musical roots, Casie turned her lifelong passion for rhythm and movement into a DJ career after graduating from The DJ School Dallas in 2020.

deCasa is a genre-bending duo hailing from Puerto Rico, now making waves from their home base in Austin, TX. Comprised of two brothers, the project blends the vibrant rhythms of the island with the wide-open sonic landscapes of the Lone Star State—a fusion they proudly call beach music.

Dr Dak is a groove-driven DJ and curator rooted in rhythm, movement, and collective energy. Refusing to be confined to a single genre, his sets weave disco, jazz, funk, and soul with forward-leaning electronic sounds, guided by mood, melody, and the feel of the room. His musical perspective is shaped by a deep, cross-generational listening background, spanning classic vocalists to experimental electronic artists.

Hailing from the cultural city of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Grrrl Gang is a rising force in the independent music scene with their infectious melodies, anthemic songs, and electrifying live performances. The power trio, composed of Angeeta Sentana on guitar and vocals, Akbar Rumandung on bass, and Edo Alventa on guitar, has been making waves in the Southeast Asian music scene since their formation in 2016. Grrrl Gang's music is a celebration of their collective roots and a testament to the power of pop music to connect people across cultures and borders. Their lyrics touch on themes such as feminism, mental health, and relationships with a raw honesty that speaks to a generation of young listeners. With their infectious energy, socially conscious lyrics, and unique sound, Grrrl Gang is poised to take the global music scene by storm and become a voice for a new generation. Their full-length debut album, Spunky! is the sound of a band not content to rest on its laurels, despite gathering an impressive list of achievements since Grrrl Gang first got together in 2016 and proceeded to take the local, regional, and international indie scenes by storm.

Amsterdam-based shoegaze outfit Honey I’m Home has feared they are cursed ever since their rehearsal space burned down the day before their first show, but recent happenings might have you believe the curse has lifted. Early 2026 they’re named as the #1 emerging act at Europe’s leading showcase festival (ESNS): “Honey I’m Home is the coolest new band from the Netherlands. The packed room gets their faces melted off, but at times also gets a breather in the shape of a beautiful verse. The unexpected breaks, original melodies and smart tempo changes give the set its own, authentic sound.”

Provocative looks, zero filter: ‘Mother Ikki’ has arrived to shake up German rap and flip stages worldwide on their heads. Bold, cunty, and relentlessly party-driven, Berlin’s Ikkimel delivers pure excess. Massive stages, sold-out crowds, deafening fans - and nights where explicit rap fuses with driving techno beats to spiral into a full- blown frenzy.

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.

Killakmadeinbrooklyn, also known as Killa K, is a Brooklyn-born rapper delivering unapologetic hip-hop rooted in real life, emotional truth, and street confidence. Her music blends sharp lyricism, bold femininity, and raw storytelling—turning pain, betrayal, and self-discovery into power-packed records.

Born in the new millennium, Luke Tyler Shelton makes soul-soothing rock-and-roll with all the ineffable charm of a faraway time. With a profound gift for dreaming up heavenly melodies and fantastically loose grooves, the Los Angeles native found his sound as part of a close-knit scene of young musicians and artists—a DIY-minded community whose spirit and sensibilities recall the near-mythic creative hotbed of early-’70s Laurel Canyon. Produced by Shooter Jennings (Brandi Carlile, Tanya Tucker) and Jonathan Wilson (Father John Misty, Angel Olsen), Luke’s debut body of work merges country-rock, folk-pop, and Southern soul into songs that immediately transport the audience into a state of enchanted ease.

Formed in the orbit of a South London pub, the spirit of Mên An Tol’s music can be traced back to frontman Bill Jefferson’s own musical education in his native Cornwall where he’d play folk sessions in and around the local pubs – in-fact the band name itself is taken from a rural site of ancient stones.

Bio: Saint Harison is a rising artist with an undeniable voice from Southampton, United Kingdom. He currently lives in Los Angeles, CA. Having quickly risen to Internet fame from public support from SZA and Jazmine Sullivan to Justin Bieber, Timbaland and Elton John, he’s one of the latest artists to watch. Citing Amy Winehouse and Frank Ocean as two key musical influences, Saint has been covered by Rolling Stone, British Vogue, Wonderland, etc. and was named Apple Music's global Up Next artist. He made his late night TV debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live! after his viral COLORS performance of “ego talkin,” which sparked the viral #egotalkinchallenge on TikTok. His 7-track EP lost a friend was released in 2023 and has amassed over 200M cumulative streams, continuing to grow. He returned in fall 2025 with his single "ghosted," and recently released his latest single "bad," produced by Grammy-winning producer duo NovaWav (Beyoncé, JAY-Z, Jazmine Sullivan, etc.). He's gearing up to release his highly anticipated project this year.

Austin, TX–based artist SOMEBODY SOMEONE (they/them) crafts intimate, emotionally incisive pop rooted in sharp songwriting and atmospheric production. Their debut single “Better” was called “riveting and spellbinding” by American Songwriter, setting the tone for a body of work that favors vulnerability, restraint, and depth.

‘The Family Battenberg have perfected a filthy, fuzzy psychedelic sound that they’ve coined as “spider rock.” (The Face)The Family Battenberg's 'Anteater' single, released in April 2025, is an independent release by the Cardiff based four-piece. The track was written in just a day, and it was recorded at Tom Rees’ (Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard) studio while he was on holiday. To master the recording the group sought out long-time collaborator Eddie Al-Shakarchi (Boy Azooga, Loathe, Swim Deep.)

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.

The Bantu & Boundless artist, Zola Marcelle, is a Zimbabwean-born, London-based multidisciplinary artist. With a rare mix of Shona and Sotho heritage, her journey through music, culture, and history is steadily shaping her into an exciting contemporary voice of her generation. Raised partially in Bulawayo with a family steeped in music, Zola grew up with a deep connection to song and her African roots.

Mai Anna is a Japanese and Puerto Rican Alternative - R&B artist born and raised in Queens, New York. Blending soulful sounds with her multicultural roots, she is part of a new wave of artists redefining the genre with intention and depth.

Niiasii is an alternative pop artist from Southeast Virginia pushing the boundaries between pop, R&B, and alternative sounds. Her music is fueled by true emotion, a mix of love, heartbreak, and the relentless pursuit of freedom. On stage, Niiasii is electric. Turning vulnerability into energy, and every performance into a deep connection with the audience. With shows across the East Coast, she’s created her own lane for genre- bending music and unapologetic expression One of Niiasii's notable accomplishments is her music project titled "The Art Of Changing Form," which has gained significant recognition with over 100,000 streams. Since that release, Niiasii has gone on to deliver 3 more cohesive projects that have solidified and deepened her community of supporters. As the buzz continues to build, this emerging alt-pop talent stands firmly on the path to breakthrough success.

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.

Blair Davie is a singer-songwriter from Perth, Scotland. Inspired by their love of emotional, heartfelt music from artists such as Dodie, Dermot Kennedy and Bon Iver, Blair’s music is their way of presenting the most honest and passionate version of themself to the world. Their music deals with coming to terms with their own bisexuality, loss and heartbreak; but also, the beauty that life can offer.

Ace Park is a native of the Southside of Houston. South Park, to be specific, where he gets the second part of his name from. He draws inspiration from Southern, Hip Hop greats such as Lil Wayne and Curren$y all the way to the likes of Kendrick Lamar coming out of the West Coast with a slight influence of traditional Hip Hop, boom-bap sound. Based off of the criteria of some of Ace’s favorite artist, the driving force for Ace to write and create music is making people feel good, promote positive messaging mixed with the reality of growing up in black communities. With that type of inspiration, Ace has built his image and musical style around being lyrically exceptional, while being one of the best dressed doing it. That same influence helped him build his brand and develop a line of merchandise that represents his ideology and where he comes from. I have continued to write and create music all year round with a concept of consistency therefore the listeners can join the journey of growth and development. In a city full of street warriors and homegrown gangsters, Ace Park is the street poet who gives an introspective perspective on Houston culture, lifestyle, and music.

“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.

Fleshripper is an OSDM project featuring members of Portrayal of Guilt.

Born in 2001, Philadelphia ignited its very own genre-bending firecracker: Kayanne Peppa. Also known as “Bunnii,” Kayanne began her creative journey at a young age, exploring various arts, writing, orchestra, & musical theater. Her curiosity later expanded into cosplay/design, & music laying the foundation for the bold world she creates today. Inspired by her brother, she began recording her own raps on GarageBand in high school, transforming a playful hobby into something more. Her music now emerges from the depths of fearless self-expression, blending hip-hop grit, punk rebellion & an unmistakable sense of play. With her animated and striking stage confidence, Kayanne Peppa turns every performance into an experience. Being instantly recognizable for her bunny ears, each show she lovingly gives them out to honor the memory of her beloved bunny, Kirby.Drawing inspiration from artists like Missy Elliott, Aaliyah, Michael Jackson, Avril Lavigne, Gwen Stefani to name a few, she refused to stay in one lane. To her life is one big anime, where exaggeration, bold looks, and unapologetic individuality are quite essential.Kayanne Peppa’s music is made for main characters only!

Tamera King is a rising R&B singer-songwriter, podcaster, and creative force known for her raw honesty, soul-stirring voice, and empowering presence. With a sound rooted in vulnerability and confidence, Tamera creates music that speaks to the highs and lows of love, growth, and self-worth. Her lyrics cut deep, drawing from real-life experiences while inviting listeners to embrace their strength and femininity. Beyond the music, Tamera is the creator of the podcast This Girl to That Girl, where she shares wisdom, personal reflections, and candid conversations designed to inspire women to evolve into their most confident, purpose-driven selves. She blends her gift for emotional storytelling with her prophetic intuition, using her voice to spark change, healing, and deep reflection. As both an artist and a woman of faith, Tamera King is dedicated to being more than just a voice on a track—she’s a reminder that you can be powerful, soft, and rooted all at once. Whether she’s singing about heartbreak, resilience, or the beauty of solitude, Tamera is a reflection of what it means to grow in public while staying grounded in truth.

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.

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!

MT Jones is a British soul singer and songwriter from Liverpool, England. Known for his rich, soulful voice and timeless songwriting style, he blends influences from 1960s and 1970s soul with modern R&B and jazz.Jones began playing piano as a child and started busking on the streets of Liverpool in his early teens, gradually building his skills as a performer and songwriter. His early releases, including “I Won’t Ever Say Goodbye” and “Feeling Lonely,” gained attention from BBC Introducing and helped establish him as a rising artist on the UK soul scene.His music has received airplay on BBC Radio 2, BBC 6 Music and Jazz FM, and he has toured internationally while also writing songs for other artists. In 2026, Jones continued to grow his profile with singles such as “Why I Cry,” “Gentle Reminder,” and “I Don’t Understand,” leading up to the release of his debut album Joy.

Emerging from Merced, CA, 60 JUNO (sixty juno) leads Central Valley Post-Punk with his own distinct blend of DIY indie-rock and dark-wave elements that create a truly notable sound worth remembering.

At just 23, Cardiff-born singer-songwriter Ben Ellis has become one of the UK’s most quietly magnetic new voices, blending intimate acoustic songwriting with the emotional depth of indie-pop. His upcoming third EP marks a pivotal moment both emotionally and musically. Written across two trips to Los Angeles in the aftermath of a breakup, the project explores the complexities of heartbreak, drifting between moments of clarity and confusion.

Known for his powerhouse vocal range, silk-smooth tone, and engaging stage presence, JeRonelle is steadily carving out his lane as a standout among the new generation of R&B.

TTG Huncho, 27, straight out of Houston, Texas. One thing about me — I stay TRAPTASTIC seven days a week. I bring unmatched energy to every stage and a presence you can feel from miles away. This is only the beginning, so stay locked in and watch the come up !

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.

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.

BettySoo, a "Korean-Americana" artist raised by immigrant parents in Spring, Texas, grew up on a steady diet of classical music, the Great American songbook, country radio, and the jewels of folk songwriters and Texas songwriting legends. If Heat Sin Water Sin (with Gurf Morlix) built her audience, When We’re Gone (2014) firmed her place in the first rank of songwriters, and 2025's If You Never Go Away proved her staying power.She’s won awards and played festivals/shows: Kerrville, Mountain Stage, SXSW, Calgary, E-Town, BBC2 with Bob Harris.

“I do it with my heart on my sleeve,” Pierce sings on Blouse, the lead single and closing track of Chatterton’s latest EP, Tiny Empire. It’s the first release from the Oxnard, CA-based duo, consisting of Brock Pierce and Logan Scrivner, since 2024’s debut Fields of This, the album which earned them a slot on Pitchfork’s Best Rock Albums of 2024. The lyric embodies the new EP well—especially coming from a pair who often prefer to keep things abstract rather than confessional. Pierce may grumble that “everything has changed” on “Punching Bag,” yet Tiny Empire stands as a testament that sometimes change can work in your favor.

In this special event from Dropout, host Lily Du gathers four guests to tell secrets, guess who they belong to, and enjoy a few cocktails made by Grant O'Brien. Full lineup coming soon!

Hot Donna serves disco therapy with an 80s shimmer. Think funky basslines, Italo magic, synthy curveballs, and dancefloor romancealways groovy, always a little sexy, always made for movement.

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.

With a name as regal as their ambition, KNO are reshaping boundaries as they set out to release their debut album in April 2026.

Delivered from the West coast of Australia, Little Guilt arrive as a cocktail of honeyed vocals, hypnotic synths and wistful lyricism brought forth with driving guitars. Since their formation in early 2021, the indie outfit have unwittingly captured the hearts of music lovers in both the digital realm and on stage through sold-out venues around Australia.

Mallory, plagued by fears of being unremarkable, joins her playwright boyfriend Sam on a retreat to coastal Maine. When she learns he once brought his glamorous ex, Louise, there, she’s struck with an obsessive curiosity about his past. As her jealousy takes hold, Mallory becomes convinced she’s being haunted by the ghost of Louise herself... Pulled into a journey that slips between past and present, rivalry and affection, melancholy and creativity, Mallory drifts further from her old life and toward something essential. "Mallory’s Ghost" is a psychological and playful exploration of envy, and the strange path it can lead back to the Self.

For over two decades, Marissa Nadler has carved out a singular place in the musical landscape, where ethereal folk, shadowy Americana, ambient soundscapes, and experimental textures converge. Anchored by her unmistakable mezzo-soprano and fingerstyle guitar, Nadler’s music conjures vivid emotional worlds—intimate, otherworldly, and timeless.A prolific songwriter, Nadler has built a discography defined by spectral beauty and haunting lyricism. Her songs, dreamlike and lush, are rich with imagery and nuance. Nadler released her debut album, Ballads of Living and Dying, in 2004, a collection that announced her as a major voice in the underground. A skilled visual artist as well, Nadler’s background in painting deeply informs the cinematic scope of her songs. Following her early work, she partnered with Sacred Bones and Bella Union for July (2014), marking a new chapter in creative clarity and critical acclaim. Strangers (2016), For My Crimes (2018), and The Path of the Clouds (2021) further expanded her sonic palette.Her 10th full-length, New Radiations, was released on August 15th. Expansive, melodic, and emotionally vivid, it captures Nadler at her most personal and visionary.

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.

Short Life is a Mexican-born, LA based artist redefining what Latin alternative pop sounds like.Raised between cultures, languages, and expectations, he grew up carrying two worlds at once, Monterrey roots and American influence. That duality became his sound. Singing in Spanish, building an alternative space with indie vulnerability, and pop melody, He gained major recognition last year SXSW after winning a new emerging talent competition hosted by legendary producer Timbaland. But instead of chasing trends, he chose to build a universe.That universe is now evolving. With his latest project, La Vida Corta, Short Life steps fully into an alternative Latin pop direction — darker, more poetic, more intentional. The title carries a double meaning: life is short, and life cuts. Across seven songs, he explores heartbreak, rejection, passion, and healing — not as tragedy, but as transformation. The project leans into atmosphere, storytelling, and emotional tension, pushing beyond genre and into feeling.His music speaks directly to “Los Séptimos,” his growing fan base a community that connects to his message of living fully, loving deeply, and honoring the scars that shape us.

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.

TREY KAMS is a music producer, dj, and engineer originally from Dallas, and now based in Los Angeles. Following his Boiler Room in 2023 he has been DJing a range of parties and events around the U.S., as well as a few local residencies in LA. In addition to preforming he has been producing and engineering a range of artists from Grammy-winning to independent; building a catalog of records that have an eclectic range. With Southern Rap, Dance, Disco-House, Indie, and R&B being at the forefront of his sound, he has been able to compose and preform songs that breakdown genre boundaries and bring a refreshing sound to practiced ideas.

Oscar and Eunice, a music electronic pop mexican duo.

From Yokohama City, Kanagawa PrefectureEncountering beatboxing at the age of 11, YAMORI began performing in earnest at 15.In November 2024, he captured first place in the TAG-TEAM category at the world beatbox competition “Grand Beatbox Battle” as part of the duo “Jairo” with John-T, earning high praise and attracting attention both in Japan and overseas.With a distinctive voice that is both gentle and powerful, YAMORI naturally weaves his roots in beatboxing into his music, delivering songs in a unique style that has earned him recognition as a “Human beat singer”.He debuted as a singer-songwriter in 2021 with the release of his first single “Tamamushi-iro.”After collaborating with artists such as RUNG HYANG and Taichi Mukai, he released his first EP “Human” in May 2023.His music blends lyrics that leave just the right amount of space for listeners’ imaginations with his own sound production, creating pop songs that are fresh, free- spirited, and far from ordinary.

Amber Jaii is a multidisciplinary artist, producer, and DJ creating high energy music and experiences rooted in confidence, movement, and self-expression. Blending dance driven production with bold, genre-fluid sound, she designs every layer of her world. From music and visuals to live sets and curated events. AJaii’s work invites audiences to step into their power, move freely, and feel unapologetically themselves!

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.

Jade Omari is an independent singer-songwriter from Hyattsville, Maryland known for her raw lyricism and soul-driven sound. She crafts songs rooted in emotional truth, growth, and resilience. Her live performances create a genuine connection—where storytelling and presence take center stage!

On October 20, 1967, Roger Patterson captured 59 seconds of film showing a creature walking through the Northern California woods—footage that became the most analyzed and debated in history. Fifty-seven years later, a reel of 16mm film discovered in a safe changes everything. "Capturing Bigfoot" reveals the untold story behind the world's greatest mystery, told for the first time by Patterson's own son and the people who were there. This is a story about family legacy, broken friendships, and belief itself.

Remey Williams is a 2× Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, producer, and drummer from Camden, New Jersey, now based in Hampton, Georgia. Raised in the church and born into a musical legacy as the son of O’Jays bassist Jimmy Williams, Remey began playing drums at age 10 and developed a soulful, emotionally driven sound. He has collaborated with artists including Summer Walker, Usher, Ari Lennox, and Childish Gambino, contributing to certified projects such as Still Over It. Currently the touring drummer for Summer Walker, Remey’s work spans live performance, production, and major TV placements, including PowerBook: Ghost and The Chi.

Slash Need have earned a reputation for putting on high-energy theatrical live performances. Heralded as the most talked about touring act in Canada, their commanding style of propulsive techno and metallic EBM serve as the backdrop to an unpredictable, ever-changing, and communal performance piece. Conjuring the essence of cherry red lipstick smudged on the rim of a spilled energy drink, baby powder masquerading as Chanel perfume; pheromones, smoke machines, and crossed wires, Toronto’s Slash Need is an invitation to demand more. Their debut album, SIt & Grin, is a blistering industrial debut, as unapologetic and brash as it is groundbreaking. Following a viral bout of unplanned, and gratifying, attention from right wing media in 2023 after their lore-making performance at Toronto Pride, the group has developed a cult following. (A widely-circulated video earned 2.3 million views with one comment calling the group ”nasty, filthy perverts”.) Conjuring the essence of cherry red lipstick smudged on the rim of a spilled energy drink, baby powder masquerading as Chanel perfume; pheromones, smoke machines, and crossed wires, Toronto’s Slash Need is an invitation.

Queer Brighton powerpop besties Hanni (they/them) and Clara (she/her) released their second album ‘Good Boy’ in Autumn 2024. They’ve toured with MUNA, Fletcher, Yungblud and The Big Moon, and they composed several original songs performed by the cast of BBC drama Riot Women, which aired in Autumn 2025.

YES AND MAYBE are a Scottish-French duo that blend instinct and precision to craft music that feels both familiar and unpredictable. Meeting online, the French multi-instrumentalist "Yes" and the Scottish producer/vocalist "Maybe" create songs grounded in introspection, storytelling and the indie sounds of the 2000s. Embracing a remote collaboration, their debut album ‘Train to Nowhere’ was written and produced entirely over WhatsApp. It captures raw emotion through intricate melodies, atmospheric vocals and sharp lyricism.

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.

Alkyone is a Greek singer-songwriter hailing from the mountains of northern Greece. Born and raised in a small town surrounded by rivers and forests, she began her musical journey at the age of six, training as a classical pianist, before embracing songwriting as her true path.Influenced by her father’s deep love for folk music, Alkyone began experimenting with traditional songs and textures, weaving a distinct folklore thread into her musical identity. Her sound blends indie songwriting, cinematic atmospheres, and folk elements from the Mediterranean and the Balkans. Singing in both English and Greek, her lyrics explore memory, growing up, and our evolving relationship with the world, while her concerts carry an intimate, personal, and emotionally charged atmosphere.She has performed across Europe (Konzerthaus, Tonhalle, Carré, SNF, Onassis Foundation and others). In 2023, she collaborated with Vincent Moon and was featured on La Blogothèque. Her critically acclaimed debut album Exit Sign was released in 2023, while her second studio album, Small Philosophies, is expected in late spring 2026.Her stage name, Alkyone, is a tribute to a recurring dream in which she was a bird.

Dyna Edyne (TreeWoman) is carving out her own lane in modern R&B—where raw vocals meet melody-first storytelling. Her writing leans honest and close-up, the kind that turns lived experience into something you can replay.

Kaash Paige (born D’Kyla Paige Woolen on January 8, 2001, in Dallas, Texas) is a singer and songwriter known for her smooth blend of R&B, EDM , Alternative, Pop and hip-hop. She began uploading songs to SoundCloud while in high school, breaking out with her viral hit “Love Songs” in 2018. That success led to her first album Parked Car Convos (2019) followed up by Teenage Fever (2020), both filled with dreamy, emotional storytelling!

Michael The Lion is the latest and greatest pseudonym of long-time Philadelphia DJ and producer DJ Apt One. Michael's trademark sound features live instruments sitting seamlessly with sampled grooves to create organic, classic textures. The Lion sound is always funky, always strong and always ready for the floor.

SYNCHROLYST— A Catalyst of Synchronicity.Venezuelan-born, Houston-based multidisciplinary artist: DJ, producer, vocalist, and experience architect weaving genre-fluid soundscapes and emotionally charged electronic grooves into immersive journeys. His multicultural perspective informs a melodic sensibility that bridges rhythm, warmth, and forward-leaning electronic energy that delivers uplifting music that connects movement with meaning.

t-low is one of the most distinctive voices of the new German music generation. With a raw emotional honesty and a sound rooted in emo rap and alternative pop, he has become a defining figure in the post-Gen-Z youth culture of the German-speaking world. Born and raised in a small town in northern Germany, t-low emerged from SoundCloud culture and quickly gained nationwide attention with his unfiltered lyrics and melodic sensibility. His music explores themes of mental health, love, identity, and existential struggle delivered with a rare vulnerability that resonates deeply with his audience.

Lee Vasi is an Atlanta-based R&B artist originally from Fayetteville, North Carolina. Raised singing with her siblings and performing in theater, her Puerto Rican-Dominican and African American heritage shaped her diverse musical influences and passion for honest storytelling. She wrote her first song at age 10 while backstage at The Lion King on Broadway, where she performed as Young Nala, and later appeared on American Idol.

There’s something about MURTY’s voice that sounds like a storyteller who can flirt, argue, and get in his feelings all within the same breath. He slides between smooth R&B, natural soul instincts, and unfiltered honesty. His songs feel like late-night confessions, unsent texts, and the confidence it takes to say what most people only think.

Gwenno is a trilingual Welsh songwriter and music producer from Cardiff, Wales. She explores her Celtic/Anglo British identity through her songs in Welsh, Cornish and English, blending early folk and blues guitar with psychedelic early electronic BBC Radiophonic Workshop and Joe Meek flourishes to capture a history of 1500 years through song.

(New album DREAMERS BELIEVERS ILLUSIONISTS PREACHERS out in November 2025)Pär Hagström has always moved along the outer edges of music – from the first stumbling chords on his family’s pump organ in Huskvarna, through 90s death metal and 70s hard rock, to the innermost heart of gospel. It’s a journey shaped as much by philosophy, literature, and theater as by rock clubs and church halls, eventually arriving at a universe of its own where drama and soulful preaching merge into one.As a frontman, Hagström is as much a preacher as he is a singer. His voice carries a natural theatrical force – raspy and silky at the same time – with an instinctive readiness to let the music chafe, sweat, and hypnotize. Drawing inspiration from Tom Waits, Led Zeppelin, Mavis Staples and the Blind Boys of Alabama, and together with his band Charlatans of Love, he has in recent years shaped a new musical entity where gospel, soul, psychedelic rock, and funk meet in something as seductive as it is uncompromising.

Nick (Jai Courtney), affable heir to a wealthy rural landowner, discovers his fiancée, Kori (Emily Browning), is cheating on him and wants nothing more than to just fix the problem. One night, he captures a rogue Fox (Olivia Colman), and she offers him a trade-off: if Nick lets her live, the Fox will help him save his relationship. All he has to do is push Kori into a magic hole with the power to change her into the perfect partner. Nick follows the Fox’s advice and the Kori who re-emerges seems to be everything he ever wanted. Until her strange new quirks make him question his decision.

Jim Baitte, a layabout sound designer desperate to prove himself, is working on a new horror flick from the tyrannical yet lauded b-movie director P.W. Griffin. Accused of lacking vision and creative courage, Jim is sent to the remote island where the film was shot to capture a sound powerful enough to elevate the film's finale. Once there, eerie local fables surface: for years, ambitious and headstrong youth have lost their souls to a ghostly sea captain for his spectral crew. As Jim entangles himself further into the bizarre locals, scenery, and prophecy, he can’t help but ponder the ever-confirming legend, and if recording it might just cost him more than his career.

Haylie Davis belongs to an intriguing LA scene that boasts several acts harking back to the halcyon days of Laurel Canyon songwriting – including Alex Amen, Drugdealer, Sylvie and Sam Burton, many of whose projects she has appeared on. From origins of psychedelic folk pop and 70s cosmic Americana, Haylie’s sound is an infectious alternative take on modern pop music, with plenty of hooks and a huge chorus; she is the Carly Simon for post-Generation Z. Her euphoric range sits somewhere between Joan Baez, Carole King and Emmylou Harris.

Beatbox duo consisting of human beatboxers John-T and Yamori. Their unique musical style, which makes full use of their voices, has attracted attention both domestically and internationally. They also won the Grand Beatbox Battle 2024, a world competition held last year, and were crowned the world's number one beatboxers. Since then, they have continued to release original music that transcends the boundaries of the beatbox genre. Don't miss the chemical reaction between John-T, with his one-of-a-kind bass sound, and Yamori, who sings and plays beats seamlessly.

Ms. Ca$H is a Georgia rapper whose sharp delivery and "get-money" mindset blend ATL trap rhythm with Southern grit. Known as The Female Sweet Jones, she crafts anthems for the hustlers and self-made queens chasing independence. With tracks like Money Mission and Amen, she's turning her grind into a lifestyle brand — one verse at a time.

Known by her artist name of Lil' Bri, she is a rapper who became nationally known on season 4 of Lifetime's The Rap Game. She would write her own lyrics, produce her own music and choreograph her own dance routines. She was in band and played basketball all throughout middle school and high school. She started rapping at the age of 10 years old. She won the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award presented by former First Lady Michelle Obama. She was born and raised in Houston, Texas. She has an older sister named Adrianna. Her parents have been very supportive of her career.

After a 7 year stint in NYC where he played at the most of popular clubs in the city (specifically Lower Manhattan & Brooklyn), Brandon Blue returned to his hometown (Dallas, TX) in 2024 and hit the ground running. In a year, he's already earned the title of Best DJ of 2025 (Dallas Observer) & Best R&B Night (Dallas Entertainment Awards). The latter prize, might indicate that he is know for one genre, but that's far from the truth. Blue has become a hot commodity with residencies all over the metroplex, packing out rooms on a weekly basis with his highly energized open format sets, his House music functions, & his surprising Latin-Afro-Dancehall mixes. Brandon also, has caught the attention of corporate spaces, partnering with brands like Crown Royal, Wingstop, BPM Supreme, & Burberry, while also doing events for the Dallas Mavericks & Cowboys. In all, Blue is music addict that's ready to entertain any crowd that's put in front of him.

BULLETBALLET is an independent project from Ciudad Juárez, México formed by Analaura Fuentes & Hector Becerra. Their sound mixes elements from shoegaze, krautrock, dreampop & synth, as well as beats & rythms from electronica & trip-hop; creating hypnotic atmospheres with guitar layers, synthesizers & vocals; touching on social themes, personal experiences & fantasies.

As soon as Byron Juane stepped onto the stage, you could feel his authenticity. There was no facade, no put-on persona to hide behind. Instead, there was raw honesty, a transparent openness that left no doubt in anyone's mind that this artist was the real deal.

Lance, Clay, and Darby have spent their childhoods drinking, wreaking havoc, and filming crude stunts in their small town. Everyone hates them. Wanting to finally prove their lives have meaning, the boys set out to make a “real movie” and in the process are forced to confront emotions and experiences they’ve never considered: love, loss, and ultimately, what it means to grow up.

Emerging from Kaurna Land (Adelaide, Australia), fragmented-folk musician Ella Ion crafts music that cuts deep to the core. Drawing on influences of indie-rock, folk and country, her eloquent lyricism and masterful musical control delivers a cacophony of raw emotion, anchored by grit and heart. Ion has already amassed a loyal following across Australia, as well as listeners streaming her music across the UK, US, Europe and more.

With the rock’n’roll panache of a dive bar matador and the emotional force of a knife in the guts, Hemi Hemingway makes music that thrills, spills and breaks hearts. The effortlessly slick New Zealand star has a connoisseur’s ear for the finest parts of musical history, sweeping 60s rock, 50s sheen and 80s romanticism into the present day, refurbishing and refashioning them into something new and fresh. At home in the spotlight, he’s a showman in the best troubadour traditions, but one with real depth, showcasing swagger and vulnerability in equal measure.

Jamaican-Irish rapper JayaHadADream is one of the UK’s most exciting new voices, blending raw, introspective lyricism with grime and hip hop influences. Raised in Cambridge and shaped artistically in Nottingham, she took an unconventional path into music—starting a career teaching A-Level Criminology at just 21, before leaving the profession in 2023 to pursue music full-time. Her breakout came in 2024 when she won the Glastonbury Emerging Talent Competition, handpicked by Michael and Emily Eavis, earning a coveted slot on one of the festival’s main stages. Since then, she’s lit up Reading, Leeds, Boomtown, BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend, and SXSW London, with a range of packed sets at Glastonbury 2025. Known for her emotive delivery and sharp pen, Jaya has received critical acclaim from Rolling Stone UK, NME, and TRENCH, with airplay on BBC Radio 1, Capital Xtra and Kiss. Her bold, genre-spanning sound has led to standout collaborations in both rap and electronic music, including tracks with Zero and Gardna. With co-signs from Mick Jenkins, Stormzy and so many more, JayaHadADream is defining the future of UK rap.

Knats, a quintet led by two lifelong best mates from Newcastle Upon Tyne, Stan Woodward (Bass) and King David-Ike Elechi (Drums), alongside their younger sidekick and virtuoso Trumpeter, Ferg Kilsby, making Geordie Jazz, with sophisticated arrangements, strong melodies and danceable grooves.

Born and raised in San Diego’s surf-rock scene, Sun Room went from getting their house shows shut down for playing too loudly to selling out venues across a dozen countries. Formed in 2021, the band gained viral attention after two songs featured on Netflix’s Outer Banks. Expanding beyond their hometown, they sold out U.S. shows, supported Louis Tomlinson, toured Europe with Inhaler, and headlined their first North American tour in fall 2022, selling over 15,000 tickets. In spring 2023, Sun Room toured North America with Inhaler before returning to SoCal to finish At Least I Tried, which earned widespread acclaim.

A one-night-only variety show hosted by Chelsea Devantez and Ashley Nicole Black featuring the entire cast of BASIC, a 2026 SXSW World Premiere film (Ashley Park, Leighton Meester, Kandy Muse and more!). Join us for an unforgettable night of comedy, music, drag, and special appearances at Esther’s Follies.

Tia Tutt, born on January 6th in Augusta, GA, hails from Lincolnton, GA. From an early age, she faced the profound loss of her brother, shaping her journey with profound challenges. However, Tia found solace and expression in music, which became her refuge and passion. Her path led her to Los Angeles, where she endured a grueling two-year period of homelessness. Despite the adversity, Tia persevered, channeling her experiences into her music. During this time, she recorded an impressive four mixtapes, each containing 20 songs, showcasing her resilience and dedication to her craft. Despite the hardships she faced, Tia emerged stronger, using her artistry as a means of empowerment and self-expression. Today, she continues to live vibrantly, thriving as both a person and an artist, constantly evolving and creating music that resonates with audiences around the world. Tia’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative nature of music in the face of adversity.

Yndent (pronounced like "indent") is a Dallas-based house DJ and producer known for his warm, uplifting energy and his joyful presence. His name (an “indented” version of his real name "Jordyn Dent") speaks to a commitment to authenticity, where the music he creates and the sets he plays showcase a true reflection of who he is and how music makes him feel; always with a huge smile to match.

The music of The 502s is an instant shortcut to unstoppable joy. Often called "the happiest band on Earth," the Orlando-bred five-piece have earned a passionate following for their kaleidoscopic beach-folk sound and euphoric live shows. On their 2025 LP Easy Street, The 502s pour their unbridled energy and eclectic musicality into their most adventurous release yet: a 13-song concept album set entirely in the bliss of a beach town, a carefree dreamland of warm sands, tiki drinks, and never-ending sunshine.

MISS GIRL6 is a cultural leader, artist, and visionary whose influence spans ballroom, music, fashion, and community advocacy. Based in Austin, Texas, she is the **Iconic Mother of the House of LEPORE**, a formidable ballroom house she co-founded with in San Antonio before expanding into Austin. Under her leadership, the House of LEPORE has become a cornerstone of Texas ballroom, creating bold, affirming spaces for Black, queer, trans, and BIPOC communities rooted in excellence, artistry, and chosen family.

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.

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.

Zamaera is a Malaysian rapper, singer-songwriter, and storyteller known for her fearless, genre-defying sound and commanding live performances. Blending sharp lyricism with experimental production, she has carved a distinct space for herself in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Primed to be the next group from the UK jazz underground to break out, Azamiah draw on jazz roots while touching on everything from James Blake’s production techniques to dubby low-end, taking the listener on a journey across moody and light landscapes. Their 2023 debut album ‘In Phases’ won praise from The Skinny and CLASH and received plays on BBC 6Music and NTS. A bridge between first album, and second, their recent EP ‘Two Lands’ released in May 2025 resonates with emotional honesty and is played with a fresh intensity. The band has played on stages across the UK and Europe including Latitude Festival, Jazz on Wick, Hidden Door, Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival, Brick Lane Jazz Festival, JAZZMI (IT) & North Sea Round Town (NL). Having recently completed their first UK headline tour in October 2025 to electric audiences in Glasgow, London, Bristol, Manchester, Leeds and Brighton and flooded with requests for a re-press of 'In Phases', a dedicated fanbase is making themselves known.

Firecracker is a punk rock’n’roll outfit from Bologna, Italy,born in 2020. Their sound fuses the raw edge of punkwith grunge‑driven moods and a straight‑ahead,no‑nonsense attitude. After a lineup shake‑up in 2023,the band tightened its direction, keeping its trademarkgrit while pushing for richer, more dynamicarrangements. April 2025 saw the release of their newEP Not Your City, a record that captures Firecracker’sevolution and marks a new chapter in their sonicjourney.

Hania Derej (20) - composer, pianist, arranger and conductor. Student of the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (jazz composition and arrangement) and the Music Academy in Kraków (symphonic conducting). Author of over 130 compositions she creates music in a variety of styles, including illustrative, jazz, chamber, film or electronic music. She has won multiple composition and performance awards including the Grand Prix of Energa Ladies Jazz Festival in Gdynia, Main Prize in “Sanki” 2025, music contest of “Gazeta Wyborcza” newspaper (the new hope of the polish music scene), the Main Prize of the first “Jazz Talents” competition within the 21st edition of Jazz Spring Zakopane 2025, Triton Award for the greatest artistic personality of the 54 th edition of FAMA Festival 2024 in Świnoujście, a special award for compositions and arrangements at the Junior Jazz Festival 2023 in Wadowice, and the “Young Composer 2023” award funded by the Polish Composers’ Union in Warsaw during the International Piano Forum in Sanok. Within this Piano Forum, Hania also received piano awards, such as a distinction for the performance of a concert with the National Polish Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra and a concert with the Lviv Chamber Orchestra “Academy.” As a conductor, Hania has had the opportunity to lead concerts with the National Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra (Poland), Elblag Chamber Orchestra (Poland), Lviv Chamber Orchestra “Akademia” (Ukraine) and the Moravian Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra (Czech Republic), among others. Hania also participates in international music projects and conferences in Europe, such as European FAMES Orchestra (Macedonia), The Playground Residence (Germany, The Netherlands), International Sync Camp (Poland), International Jazz Platform (The Netherlands, Norway, Poland), Music Export Academy in Poland, Global Conservatory and Eastern European Music Export Academy (Ukraine), “Iceland Airways networking mission”, ESNS Showcase Festival & Conference networking mission (The Netherlands) and Jazzahead 2025 (Germany). Last but not least - in the JAZZTOP 2024 music critics’ survey of the international magazine JAZZFORUM, Hania Derej won the “New Hope” award for her solo work and came 5th in the “New Hope - Ensemble” category (for her work as Hania Derej Quintet). In April 2025, Hania was awarded a distinction in the nationwide “Young Promoter of Poland” Contest, under the Honorary Patronage of the Wife of the President of the Republic of Poland, for young Poles whose activities contribute to the popularization of knowledge about Poland and building a positive image of Poland in the world.

From her crumbling estate on the Potomac, Yolanda Signorelli von Braunhut is engaged in a David-and-Goliath battle to wrest control of her late husband Harold’s iconic toy Amazing Live Sea Monkeys! back from the corporate men who she insists stole them from her. Harold von Braunhut and Yolanda Signorelli worked together for forty years before Harold - a genius magician, scientist and inventor – passed away and left his iconic novelty toy in Yolanda’s care. Yolanda alone possesses the true Sea-Monkeys secret formula and she alone must free them, not only from their captors, but also from the stain of her husband’s dark legacy.

According to his mother, when E.M.E. (born Emmanuel Nwaneto) was baptized, the presiding reverend declared that the child would be a star. Two decades later, he's now fulfilling the reverend's prophecy as an up-and-coming Afrofusion artist based in Denver, Colorado. With over 1.5 million views on his videos and 2 million streams on Spotify and Apple Music, E.M.E is rapidly rising to meet his goal of bringing Afrobeats from Nigeria, to Colorado, and now to the world.

Ms. Jamika better known as MikMula born and raised in Savannah , GA is not just an artist she’s an experience. With razor-sharp bars, silky melodies, and a presence that commands attention the moment she steps on stage, she embodies confidence, growth, and feminine power.

If there's one thing Panic Shack know, it's how to have a good time. Comprised of Sarah, Meg, Romi, Em and Nick, the band formed in 2018 as a middle-finger to the “members-only club” atmosphere of indie and punk scenes – not just because they’re male-dominated, but because they make playing music seem out of reach or, even worse, boring. This carefree approach gives Panic Shack’s music the same effect as popping a bottle of Prosecco – explosive, intoxicating, and delightfully chaotic. With barely any music available online, they built a word-of-mouth following off the back of their live shows, which have been praised for fusing “thrashy early LA-style punk with choreography that owes something to the Go-Go’s and Iron Maiden all at once” (The Guardian).Released in 2022, their acclaimed Baby Shack EP bottled the lightning they have on stage, cementing their ability to blend killer hooks with a contagious sense of humour.

In 2022, five young men from Iceland, unsure of where their life was going formed a rock band, with the goal of bringing style, fun, dance and catchy songwriting back to Icelandic rock music. Spacestation has in the past couple of years gained a reputation as the country’s most exciting new rock group and its most proliferate live band.

rinahamu is a Tokyo-based artist, songwriter, composer, producer, and DJ.Rooted in electronic music, she creates a distinctive world that seamlessly blends music, fashion, and culture.In addition to her solo work, she is also active as a vocalist for BPM15Q and Tokyo Den-Nou, both projects from Den-On-Bu.

Nightbus are a brooding, cinematic two-piece (4 members live) blending post-punk, trip-hop, and late-night electronica into something dark, hypnotic and unmistakably their own. Formed in Manchester UK in 2023, their music captures the anxious beauty of city life after hours—dripping in atmosphere - bass-heavy and emotionally raw. With haunting vocals, reverb-soaked guitars, and minimalist beats, they echo the ghosts of The Knife, Portishead, early Cure, Chromatics and the XX, all while carving out a space all their own.

In an era that relies so heavily on quick-hit bands, there are very few things that are truly part of the subculture and not just the passing zeitgeist du jour. Closing in on three decades, The Spits have signified the crossroads between punk mayhem and well-honed songwriting, creating some of the most unhinged and anthemic tracks in underground music while standing tall enough to be uttered in the same breath as names like Jay Reatard, Dead Moon, Ty Segall and more.

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

Austin-based band The Droptines live wildly between the lines of Americana and rock and roll – what they dub alternative Americana. Newly signed to Big Loud Texas, the band made their label introduction with the release of “Take Too Much.” Their artistry is defined by lead singer Conner Arthur’s vocal growl and reminiscent of The Droptines most pointed influences like rock heroes Tom Petty and James McMurty. Working with lauded producer and Big Loud Texas co-founder and president of A&R Jon Randall, the gritty band is prepping new music entrenched in a southern vernacular – writing and performing the songs they want to hear most. Defined by a “beatnik-like itinerary of a lost soul’s activity” (Saving Country Music),

2BYG combines four talents, minds, and hearts into one bold, bright, and blockbuster vision of what R&B can be in 2025. The Dallas, TX quartet—Matt, Nixx, Tourè, and KD—channel a timeless spirit from a fresh perspective, filtering throwback nineties feels through a Gen Z lens and delivering smooth anthems without comparison. After attracting millions of followers and achieving viral impact, this dynamic collective is ready to make contact with a series of singles for Def Jam Recordings and much more to come.

4NEY is a San Diego-based electronic/dance Funky House artist. Known for his high-energy Funky sets and original productions within the dance genre, 4NEY has toured the world and received a variety of support from established Dance Music Acts.

Amor Vincit Omnia is a pop-project created by producer Baldur Skúlasonand singer Erla Hlín Guðmundsdóttir. The band name, translating to LoveConquers All, encapsulates their humouristic approach to serious subjects,since the name is to them, both beautiful and a bit ridiculous at the sametime. Amor’s music is best described as playful and eccentric, with anIcelandic sense of carelessness. Their sound is inspired by people who pushthe boundaries of pop music, such as Björk, Jockstrap and Kate Bush.In 2024, Amor released their debut EP, brb babe, earning them ReykjavikGrapevine’s ‘One to Watch’ and the Kraumur Awards. Since the release, theyhave played at one of the biggest festivals in Iceland ‘Aldrei fór ég Suður’and collected over 30 performances around the country. This year they willbe playing at the iconic Iceland Airwaves off-venue showcase,demonstrating that they are now ready to take their infectious beats abroad.

Join stand-up comedian Eric Andre as he hangs with his friends to talk about BOMBING. They talk about their worst moments in all sorts of ways - on stage, in public, bombing in life and many more gnarly stories that may or may not involve audience members throwing a punch. Were these tales from being “under the influence”? Some. And some are just his adventures. Bombing with Eric Andre is part of iHeartMedia and Will Ferrell’s Big Money Players podcast network.

When FEET self-released their debut album in 2019, the group offered up a particularly oblique title: What’s Inside Is More Than Just Ham. But once listeners delved into the record, they found sloshing’s of guitar music that careered wildly between indie, psych, and subtle shades of new wave across an exciting and unpredictable 35 minutes. Since then, FEET have seen prominent live shows have seen them supporting the likes of Inhaler and even The Rolling Stones at their huge 2022 Hyde Park shows. The bands second album "Make It Up" garnered further critical acclaim with the band being invited to perform a BBC 6Music Live session off the back of the single releases Greasy Boy, Why Would I Lie and The Real Thing.

Femi Temowo is a MOBO Award-nominated artist, composer, and music producer. His mastery on guitar and distinctive styles quickly earned him widespread recognition, leading to collaborations with world-class artists including George Benson, Amy Winehouse, Courtney Pine, Taylor Swift, The Roots, Omar, Soweto Kinch, and many more.

Called “the quintessential modern composer” by the ​London Independent​, Austin-based composer-bandleader-improviser Graham Reynolds records and performs music for film, theater, dance, rock clubs, and concert halls. He recently scored Richard Linklater’s He recently scored Richard Linklater’s Blue Moon (Sony) with Ethan Hawke and Margaret Qualley, Hit Man (Netflix), Happy Jail (Netflix), Stop Hitting Yourself (Lincoln Center Theater), Out of Her Mind (BBC), Grimm Tales (Ballet Austin), and a multi-year commission from Ballroom Marfa, The Marfa Triptych, culminating in his Creative Capital Award winning project Pancho Villa from a Safe Distance. Amidst his many other projects, Graham also serves as the Artistic Director of the new music focused non-profit Golden Hornet. In 2020, Graham signed with London-based record label Fire Records and released his original score for Alfred Hitchcock’s silent classic, The Lodger. His most recent release with Fire, Mountain (March 2025), is a full-length solo album that draws from the full breadth of his musical career.

Known for deep selections across vinyl and digital, and a growing catalogue of groove-driven productions, Jadarrion continues to push boundaries and solidify his place as a name to watch.

JAKE GATEWOOD is a Texas-based DJ, producer, creative director, and curator whose disco- and house-driven sound has become a staple on dance floors across the U.S. Known for groove-forward, high-energy sets, his work is built for packed rooms and long nights.

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.

Lew Apollo is a rising force in modern soul, captivating audiences with his soul-stirring melodies and poignant songwriting. KUTX praised him as “the perfect summer vibe,” a fitting description for an artist whose music blends hypnotic guitar, cinematic production, and a sultry, smoky voice into lush, resonant soundscapes. Originally hailing from rural Barnum, MN, Lew’s artistry is deeply rooted in his home state’s heritage, fusing the legacies of Bob Dylan and Prince with modern influences like Hozier, Leon Bridges, and Labrinth.The tragic loss of his father in 2022 profoundly shaped Lew’s songwriting, catalyzing a body of work that confronts themes of grief, isolation, and resilience while offering hope and connection. His debut EP JUNGLE, produced by BLK ODYSSY, introduced him as a bold new voice and fueled a run of sold-out shows at iconic Austin venues like The Pershing and Antone’s.Since then, Lew has taken his music to wider audiences, touring in support of Los Lonely Boys and earning airplay on KUTX with his single “Diamonds and Gold” as well as “Let the Light In” from his debut album. Self-produced from start to finish, Fool’s Gold has already surpassed 300,000 streams in under two months and is creating buzz for its fearless vulnerability and lush production. Press outlets have echoed the excitement: AMP Music declared “Lew Apollo will be a force in the R&B and pop stratospheres. Be warned,” while Earmilk praised how “Apollo’s signature smoky voice sets the tone for a sultry soundscape.” With his clear vision and unwavering dedication to using music as a vessel for healing, Lew Apollo is quickly emerging as one of the most exciting new voices to watch in soul.

nudo is a psychic handshake/brain trust between Joaquin Tenorio and Eric Hernandez. Hailing from Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, MX and Eagle Pass, Texas, USA, respectively. The pair met while living in Austin, TX and have been making music together since 2017. Throughout this time, their sound has journeyed from something like an improvised industrial, to more aleatoric collage passages, and is currently honing in on a more song based, corrido oriented zone, however pried apart.

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.

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.

Hrishikesh Hirway is a singer/songwriter, podcast creator, and composer. He’s the host, creator, and executive producer of Song Exploder, an award-winning podcast Netflix original series. As a composer, he has written and recorded original scores for movies and television, including the thriller Companion from New Line Cinema, the Netflix television series Everything Sucks!, the Sundance rom-com Save the Date. Hrishikesh's new album, In the Last Hour of Light, is a memoir about letting go — of people, of memories, of the desire to stop time from moving too fast. The album is set for release on Keeled Scales on April 24. The album was recorded live by producer Phil Weinrobe (Big Thief, Adrienne Lenker), at his studio in Brooklyn, Sugar Mountain. With featured guest vocals from Iron & Wine, Fenne Lily, Ken Pomeroy, and Uwade; and contributions from Jay Som, Palehound, Daniel Hart (St. Vincent), Zosha Warpeha (L'Rain), and Dustin O'Halloran.

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.

REDZED is a Czech rap-metal outlier turning underground chaos into global momentum. Writing and producing everything himself — from raw guitar riffs to hard-hitting beats — he fuses serrated modern rap with the weight of late-’90s/’00s metal. The result is a dark, cinematic crossover that speaks fluent mosh pit and playlist alike.

Vickeelo is a New Orleans–born and raised artist bringing the raw, high-energy pulse of Bounce and Southern hip-hop to today’s sound. Known for commanding performances and unapologetic delivery, she channels NOLA culture, cadence, and confidence into every record and live show.She first turned heads with the gritty club anthem “Sit On Dat,” followed by fan favorites like “Break Up 2 Make Up.”Her reach expanded globally with “Ride or Die,” a collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion featured on the Queen & Slim soundtrack.Most recently, Vickeelo has gained viral momentum with high-energy Bounce records “Imma Shaker” and “Doo Whop,” fueling dance challenges, packed live crowds, and online moments that showcase her ability to move both the internet and the room.Blending hard-knocking beats, infectious hooks, and bold lyricism, her music reflects themes of hustle, independence, love, and empowerment. With a reputation for electrifying, crowd-driven performances, Vickeelo continues to push Bounce culture forward while carving out her own unmistakable lane.

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."

Hana Lili is on a mission to pursue her truth. For the Welsh artist, songwriting has always been a way to make sense of what words can’t quite hold. Her self-titled EP, Hana, marks her boldest step yet — an intimate collection that distils emotion into its rawest form. Blending confessional storytelling with the dynamic spirit of 90s and early 00s alt-rock, Hana craftssongs that balance vulnerability and power. Drawing inspiration from artists like Alanis Morissette, Radiohead and Gwen Stefani, she channels emotional honesty through soaring melodies and unfiltered energy. Each song feels like a conversation with herself — an exploration of identity, doubt, and the small moments that shape who we are.Hana’s music merges introspection with rebellion, turning personal chaos into connection. Raised in Wales and a first-language Welsh speaker, Hana’s sense of place runs deep. Her roots in the Welsh Eisteddfod tradition — a celebration of language, music, and storytelling — instilled in her a lasting belief in the power of creative expression.With a sound that bridges intimacy and universality, Hana Lili stands as one of alt-pop’s most distinct and fearless emerging voices.

Houston’s own DJ XO’s musical resume already reads like a seasoned veteran. DJing already for 10 +years and producing music for even longer, during the course of his career, XO has been in the studiowith industry heavyweights like 2Chains, The Game, rap icon Trina and at present time, R&B sensation,Carl Thomas and Keith Sweat who also serves as a mentor to the budding artist.

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!

Zae France isn’t just making music, he’s redefining R&B. Blending nostalgia with innovation, his latest releases, including hiselectrifying new single “RAX” and fan-favorite “Start 2 Finish,” have further solidified his status as one of the genre’s leading voices in2025.

After the disbandment of his previous punk band, Kimito was inspired by electronic music and formed a new project in 2008, which became THE GAME SHOP. Kimito and McD share a long history, having grown up in the same housing complex during childhood.

I-SKY, West Malaysian based Producer-DJ - inspired by the likesof Skrillex, Baauer, TNGHT and Boys Noize; started with shows that always promised atailored selection expanding from his favourite local/regional products to carefully curated underground dance finds from his internet digs, he since has established himself as a household name in the 2010s KL nightlife scene.

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.