Almost any kind of music can be heard on Sixth Street during SXSW, from marching band drumlines to African and South American musicians.
Austin Texas
If the Austin Convention Center is the central focus of SXSW by day, Sixth Street becomes the central focus by night. With showcases in the clubs, crowds walk the street in such density that it can be hard to walk. Groups are always gathering around street musicians or food trucks as well, but it is usually a well-behaved group, despite all the apparent chaos.
Street musicians are a common sight on Austin’s Sixth Street, particularly during SXSW. This bucket drummer kept up a compelling rhythm while accompanying himself with occasional raps and rhymes. Eventually he attracted a couple of young MC’s who began rhyming to the beat he was playing.
Scenes from SXSW, Austin, March 13, 2012
The Trade Show is one of the most important components of SXSW. Not only is it full of booths promoting both technology and software firms and music, but there are also live performances, and during the block parties, free food and drink. It’s a great place to network and meet people, and with all the vendors sponsoring contests, you might even win something.
SXSW registration always looks like a nightmare. In reality, it moves fairly quickly and rather smoothly, thanks to good organization and plenty of volunteers. March 13, 2012
Scenes from SXSW, Austin, March 13, 2012
Turntable Records is a tiny store in South Austin that sells some rare vinyl, used CD’s and Texas rap, as well as a considerable selection of Tejano, Norteno and other Mexican music genres. Although it is easy to miss, Turntable Records is worth a visit.
The Omelettry is way out in North Austin on Burnet Road, but still it’s not uncommon to find musicians or panelists from SXSW starting their day there with a great breakfast. The Omelettry was founded in the 1970’s, and is one of the oldest breakfast restaurants in Austin.
SXSW is like the Mardi Gras of Austin. It’s such a big deal that even the local Wal-Marts have displays for it.