Go to https://cart.sxsw.com/products/bandapp

You must have a SXSW ID account to fill out an application. Click “sign in” at the top right of the page, then either log in or create an account.

When you are logged in, click “Apply Now” to open the application.

Fill out all relevant information. Required fields are indicated with an asterisk.

Click “Submit Application”

On the next page, click “Checkout Now” to lead to the payment page.

Enter your payment information, read and agree to the terms and conditions, and click “Confirm Purchase”

On the next page, you must click “Complete Your Purchase” to finish the transaction.

A confirmation email will be sent to the person listed as the primary contact.

Visit the Showcasing Artist Application page for further information.

Please note:

The person listed as Primary Contact in your SXSW Music Festival Showcase Application should be someone who is authorized to respond on behalf of the act applying and frequently checks their email. Notifications from SXSW will be sent to the Primary Contact email address, and will require timely response. 

Invited artists do not need to purchase a SXSW Music Badge to apply for or to perform at a SXSW showcase. Artists who are not selected to perform will be able to purchase SXSW Music Badges at the lowest available registration rate after notification of status, if they choose to do so. There are no refunds if you purchase a registration at a higher rate, or decide not to attend if you are not offered a showcase.

Within 48 hours of submission you will receive a confirmation email from SXSW. If you do not receive notification within 48 hours, please follow up by email to ensure your showcase application has been submitted properly and is under consideration.

To keep important SXSW emails from landing in your spam folder, add the following address to your contact list: [email protected].

The SXSW Music Festival programming team reviews and evaluates applicants according to originality, technical ability, songwriting skills, and career trajectory. The goal of the SXSW Music Festival is to further the careers of artists, so the programming team also takes into account social media presence, streaming numbers, show experience and milestones such as release timelines and tour scheduling. Every application is evaluated by multiple parties, then invitations are extended to those selected to showcase. As SXSW receives a large number of applications each year, it is unfortunately not possible to invite and accommodate every great artist that applies.

The SXSW Showcasing Artist Badge provides the same access as a SXSW Platinum Badge (access to all SXSW events), plus special artist-only benefits.

An application is a request to be considered for an official showcase performance slot at the SXSW Music Festival.

A registration is a credential that allows the holder to attend SXSW events.

Band members do not need to purchase a registration to apply for a showcase. All applying artists, whether accepted to showcase or not, will be able to register to attend SXSW Music at the lowest registration rate after notification of status, if they choose to do so. If you purchase a registration at a higher rate or decide not to attend if you are not offered a showcase, refunds are not available.

Information about our policies regarding refunds and use of credentials can be found here in our terms and conditions. Please make sure to read and understand these before making any purchases.

The next SXSW Music Festival will be held March 15-20, 2027, in Austin, TX in several venues within the downtown Austin area.