Who's going? This is my 3rd year and I told myself last year it would be my last but I got a music badge again this year so, ehh. Why not. Ive heard friends and colleagues complain about the festival but Ive always had the time of my life. Ive made a post on my blog to help firs timers or non happy previous attendees to help make this time lots of fun. Peep below. Hope this might help.
1. "Ill be there this year, a first" In response to Reply # 0
Although im a vet of the NYC equivelent CMJ.
I read your post, so there really aren't any fun/worth unofficial parties? Because it seems that's the trend that'sgoing on with CMJ as the years go on.
4. "RE: Ill be there this year, a first" In response to Reply # 1
Man I would love to see more non official SXSW parties. My friends are Grown Kids Radio did a great nonofficial show with Alice Russell, BlackSpade, Coultrain, Electric Wire Hustle but turn out was mild. Such a great line up too! A lot of my friends just showed up and couldnt get into the official shows because people with badges got priority. However i suggest if your cool with bands, artist and management just do the guest list thing and you will be fine. But lots of my friends complained they couldnt find those events. Well if you had a badge you get the booklet with ALL the events listed. Official events are pretty legit. All set times are finalized and shows roll on time. No waiting.
8. "Ill have a badge, was just wondering" In response to Reply # 4
Now housing...thats whole another problem. Any leads on that end would hell, lol.
>Man I would love to see more non official SXSW parties. My >friends are Grown Kids Radio did a great nonofficial show with >Alice Russell, BlackSpade, Coultrain, Electric Wire Hustle but >turn out was mild. Such a great line up too! A lot of my >friends just showed up and couldnt get into the official shows >because people with badges got priority. However i suggest if >your cool with bands, artist and management just do the guest >list thing and you will be fine. But lots of my friends >complained they couldnt find those events. Well if you had a >badge you get the booklet with ALL the events listed. >Official events are pretty legit. All set times are finalized >and shows roll on time. No waiting. > >good luck fam! >
10. "RE: Ill have a badge, was just wondering" In response to Reply # 8
Hotels are cheaper outide of Austin (Obviously) but if you go with friends you can all chip in. Or find out who is going in advance and split a room. Make sure to check in when you get in! Dont wait till night! I learned the hard way and lost my room despite paying in advance. I mentioned below in a post you will be spending 20 percent of your time in bed and quick shower before your out and about at shows, panels, etc. I had luck along the I 35 where motels are cheap but hookers, drunks, and taco shops are along the way too!
5. "RE: Trying to see Hiatus Kaiyote." In response to Reply # 2
Ditto! I talked to their management and seems they are playing with Liane La Havas, Alt J and Fat Tony. Check em out! I know they are planning on doing other cities post SXSW so reach out to them on twitter and ask if they are coming close. In terms of rooms, find friends and work out a split! The majority of your time will be on the streets and at shows! Rooms are just for sleeping and showering. I would still explore it!!!
11. "RE: Trying to make it over. This will be my first time" In response to Reply # 7
Link w/Big Reg (Moderator). Again, you dont have to be all buddy buddy but do a split on a room. Average room rates go for 200/300 a night. Im sure you can find cheaper outside of Austin but gotta bus it into town. My friends from last year found lodging with the locals in backhouses. You just gotta look!
12. "RE: yes Im in, this is my 4th year" In response to Reply # 9
Dope! Think of it as an adventure. Just float! Panels at Convention Center are always interesting! If you dont have pass or badge you can get a day pass.
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