Happy season launch, SXSW Music community! Get ready for South by Southwest (SXSW) 2026: March 12–18 in Austin, Texas, USA. Artist applications opened on June 24! Deadlines: Early Deadline (Reduced‑Fee): Submit by August 13, 2025. Final Deadline: Last chance to apply is October 24, 2025.
As we look forward to the 2026 season, there is lots to be excited about. Every year the SXSW team works diligently to bring together artists, industry professionals, and music lovers from across the globe to celebrate the magic of live music on the stages of downtown Austin. This year is no exception. We are pumped to share the new initiatives for the 2026 SXSW Music Festival with you, the community that makes it all happen.
An exhilarating change for the 2026 season is the addition of one extra night of music showcases, meaning new opportunities to discover emerging artists and your next favorite band. Since the Music Festival will run concurrently with the SXSW Innovation Conference and Film & TV Festival for the first time ever, our artists will be able to engage with an even broader audience.
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Showcasing at SXSW means performing in one of Austin’s famous live music venues for 30,000 industry reps, 3,000 media members, and thousands of fans and fellow musicians from all over the world. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to share your music in Austin this March!
Artist Applications
Artist applications opened on June 24. Be sure to apply soon to receive the first rate of $35. The second rate starting on August 13 will be $75.
Here are 6 things the music programming team look for in an artist application:
- The Music
- When was your last release and what’s coming up? Highlight any singles, EPs, or albums dropped in the last 12 months. If you’ve got new music scheduled (especially around SXSW), share timelines, working titles, and collaborators.
- Career Momentum + Developments
- Are you signed to a label or management? Name drop if relevant.
- Any recent media coverage, playlist placements, chart appearances, or syncs (TV/film/game placements)?
- Goals for SXSW
- Be clear about what you want from the festival: Is it US industry visibility? Looking for a label or agent? Wanting to expand your fanbase?
- Tell us how SXSW can move the needle for you — this helps us understand if we’re the right platform for your goals.
- Press & Media Features
- Have you been covered by tastemaker media? (Paste, Pitchfork, NME, triple j, BBC Introducing, etc.)
- Include links or name publications, even if regional — shows you’re generating interest. Include radio support: specialty shows, community stations, college radio, or national broadcasters.
- Your Team + Strategy
- If you’re working with a publicist, booking agent, or DSP pitching team, name them. Pro Tip: You will want one of these professionals on your team to maximize the SXSW experience. They will be provided the tools, resources, press lists, and conference session recommendations we provide to artists at different stages of their careers.
- Live Strength
- Touring history — especially if you’ve recently played notable festivals, support slots, or international shows. Will SXSW be one of your only US dates, or are you planning on touring around this time.
- If you’re entering a new market (e.g., first US tour), mention this — SXSW loves being part of your “firsts.”
Programmers want to be early — but not too early. Show that you’re ready and that this opportunity aligns with a moment you’re already building.