focusing on the music, film and technical media industries. In 2010, SXSW had hundreds of speaking sessions and more than 1,800 showcase acts playing throughout Austin and dozens of networking events providing a unique atmosphere for both bands and industry professionals to connect and grow as a community. By all accounts, SXSW is one of the largest music events in the world.But how does a band get to play at SXSW? Here are the Top 5 Things SXSW Looks For From Artists, straight from the source:
#1 – Originality: The Music
Above all, SXSW is looking at the music first: Great songs and original sound that would sell across, or appeal to, a number of different markets.
#2 - Comprehensive: Have The Complete Package
Make sure your EPK is 100% complete. Keep your calendar up to date, your photos fresh, upload videos of your live performances, and include any press quotes you have. SXSW wants to see the whole picture.
#3 – Creativity: The Biography
Your band bio is your chance to get creative and tell the world who you are. The music will speak for itself, but SXSW still wants to know your personality and your goals as an artist. Keep in mind, however, that SXSW doesn’t want to read a book – a brief but informative bio (maybe a couple paragraphs) will keep our attention.
#4 – Journey: Where You’ve Been and Where You’re Going
A complete gig calendar is key when looking for a slot in a huge festival like SXSW. It gives the event programmers a better idea of where to place your band depending on the size of the venues you’ve played in the past, and venues you’re looking to play in the future. They also want to see where you’re going to be playing around the time of the festival. A lot of bands plan tours around the festival, even if it’s just a few dates. Seeing that initiative helps the programmers put a lot more faith in your band, and makes their decision to help you get a slot easier.
#5 – Dedication: Be Willing to Go the Distance
Give 110%, all of the time. And if SXSW is interested in you, make sure that they know how interested you are in them. It’s all about forming a relationship and working together. Just getting chosen for a slot is a huge task, but there’s a lot more work that comes after that. So, always show that you’re willing to go the extra mile to make your showcase work.
There you have it, the great mystery has been revealed. Tips and advice straight from SXSW. So, get those EPKs primed and ready for SXSW, and be sure to submit by 11:59 PM EST on October 7th to take advantage of the early bird pricing right here on Sonicbids.
