In February, greater than 120 artists signed an open letter to SXSW from the Union Of Musicians And Allied Staff (UMAW) demanding greater pay, a wristband to the pageant (along with monetary compensation), take away the applying charges, and supply the identical compensation to worldwide artists. Properly, based on Texas Public Radio, SXSW Music has “quietly” elevated wages for performers, beginning in 2024. That’s it, although.

Because the group opened functions right now for subsequent yr, it confirmed a slight pay bump: $350 for group performers and $150 for solo artists, up from $250 for bands and $100 for solo artists. Apparently SXSW mentioned it posted the brand new charges earlier in June however didn’t make a proper announcement. It’s additionally value noting that the unique open letter demanded funds of $750 for all artists.

The pageant will proceed to present home artists a alternative between cash and a wristband, which supplies artists entry to exhibits. SXSW says it’s increasing wristband perks to incorporate free meals and drinks. Worldwide artists nonetheless received’t be paid, and the pageant will proceed to cost a $35 utility payment, although the coverage says waivers can be found for “particular native music organizations.”

On Monday, members of the Austin Parks And Recreation Board voted to suggest that the Austin Metropolis Council work to verify artists who play at SXSW Music obtain “honest pay” for his or her work. At that assembly, Pat Buchta — head of the nonprofit Austin Texas Musicians — mentioned the wage enhance is a step in the best route, however he nonetheless hoped the pageant would think about elevating wages even greater. “Respectfully, is that sufficient?” he requested. “Our musicians don’t assume so, and musician enter is the one factor that everyone appears to be lacking on this dialog.”

In the meantime, In an announcement to KUT, SXSW Vice President Of Music James Minor mentioned SXSW provides artists the possibility to community in contrast to different “consumer-focused festivals.”

“It’s important for us to proceed to offer alternatives that take advantage of influence in supporting the 1000’s of artists who come to Austin each March,” he mentioned. “We’re grateful to the music group — from trade executives and manufacturing employees to the artists themselves — for creating such a singular environment in Austin in March.”