OPEN YOUR EARS
See some old favorites and discover some new ones at South by Southwest 2018.
The era of Gaga, Kanye, Springsteen and other music megastars visiting South by Southwest might be a thing of the past, as branding sponsors pull back a bit from attention-grabbing events that seemed to peak in the past several years. But just how much that changes the SXSW experience as a whole is another matter.
Yes, this year’s fest still has some big names. Late-in-the-game announcements have included a Keith Urban concert at Stubb’s on March 15, the same night that Los Lobos will help kick off three nights of free shows at Auditorium Shores. But a big part of what you’ll find among the 2,000 acts playing in Austin over the next few days are promising artists on the rise, from all over the world.
We’ve combed through the extensive schedule to offer a look at highlights in many genres, plus an overview of major free afternoon shows (you’ll find hundreds more on our website’s SXSW unofficial parties guide). From there, what to make of SXSW 2018 is up to you.
MORE SXSW
South by Southwest 2018 kicks off today. Check out more previews and live coverage: austin360.
com/sxsw: News, reviews, photos, video, previews, tips for surviving — and enjoying — the fest, and rumor confirmation and debunking. 512tech.com: All the latest on the interactive track and events, including politically themed speakers, virtual reality, and diversity in tech and sports. Plus, get the latest on which ridehailing services you should use to get around. austin360.com/ sxswparties: Austin360’s unofficial SXSW 2018 party guide has more than 100 events and counting. Follow us: We’re Austin360 and 512Tech on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.