Australian & NZ acts announced for SXSW 2017

Image: Middle Kids

Five Australian acts and one New Zealand artist have been announced to perform arguably the biggest music showcase in the globe, Austin, Texas’s South By Southwest (SXSW).

Perth singer-songwriter Kučka, New Zealand two-time ARIA Award winner Ladyhawke, Brisbane indie-rockers Thigh Master, Katherine-born blues artist C.W. Stoneking, Adelaide electronic duo PINES and FBi Northern Lights competition winners Middle Kids were announced in the first lineup today.

In 2015 over 50 acts showcased at SXSW’s 10-day conference, including National Live Music Award nominees Harts, Julia Jacklin and DZ Deathrays.

Phil Tripp, SXSW’s Australia, New Zealand & Hawaii Representative told TMN we shouldn’t expect another large contingent of Australian acts heading to SXSW in 2017.

“Though we have had an escalating presence over the years, it is dependent on release cycles, touring cycles, finances and visa policies," he said. "This year we have had fewer than normal submissions so that may indicate the first two cycles.

"Federal and state grants have evaporated in many cases and even Sounds Australia is doing it tough. Visa’s remain harder to get and the shrinking dollar makes travel and expenses dearer."

Tripp told TMN Donald Trump’s presidential campaign may even factor in for some regular local artists:

"There is a hesitance of people to travel in the US if Trump is elected (after swearing in in January) so some regular delegates are hedging their bets. But the upside is a major increase in interactive delegates and stand presences for Australian companies.”

The 31st annual SXSW Music Festival takes place Monday, March 13 - Sunday, March 19, 2017.

To apply to perform or for more information on the SXSW Music Festival, please go to https://www.sxsw.com/festivals/music/. The final deadline to apply is Friday, October 21, 2016.

SXSW AUS & NZ Site: http://www.sxsw.com.au & http://www.sxsw.com