The 2019 edition of SXSW is officially in the books and it was quite an experience as always. This year was my 7th year in a row attending and I was once again able to take in some shows by artists I knew very little of and/or have never seen perform live. Below I have put together a list of the top 5 performances I witnessed over the span of 5 days down in Austin. I have included photos of those 5 artists as well as other artists I was able to see in The Live Music Capital of the World.
J Balvin at Native Hostel
J Balvin was a very late addition to the SXSW lineup but it was one that I was most excited about. The Colombian artist headlined Uforia’s official showcase at Native Hostel and didn’t disappoint. If you’re not familiar with Balvin’s discography, you’re in for a treat. Add a huge inflatable dinosaur and some backup dancers? You’re in for a great time.
Charlotte OC at Maggie Mae’s
Charlotte OC is someone I have been trying to see live for a few years now and finally got to witness at Maggie Mae’s my first night in Austin. Her amazing voice could be heard from outside the building on the sidewalk and anyone that didn’t stop by and check out her show on the Maggie Mae’s rooftop made a terrible decision.
The Strumbellas at Bungalow
I have to admit that The Strumbellas weren’t on my list of artists to check out this year at SXSW due scheduling conflicts but once some time freed up, I made my way to Bungalow to catch their set and see what it was all about. The end result of that was The Strumbellas winning me over and making me a fan. Their set was the most fun out of everything I saw the entire week in Austin.
Dreezy at Nuevo Leon Lot
You can alway count on Bud Light to put together some solid shows when it comes to their Dive Bar Sessions and this year was no different at SXSW. My favorite performance at their showcase was seeing fellow Chicago native Dreezy run through her hits as well as performing a freestyle that is Rihanna-approved. Can’t get any better than that.
Pink Sweat$ at Mohawk Outdoor
Pink Sweat$ released his debut EP late last year and thankfully, I was able to become a fan a few weeks before SXSW. When I found out he would be doing a handful of shows at the fest, I made it my priority to catch at least one of his sets. I accomplished that goal by seeing him perform at Mohawk during a day set and it was everything I expected. This guy is going to be a star.
Photo Credit: Alberto Marquez / Pursuit Of Dopeness
