Here is what’s going to happen: I’m going to rant a little bit about pay for play during SXSW. I’ll get all high and mighty, my arms will be flailing (as much as is possible while typing), and I’ll probably use one or two big words that I’m not completely confident that I know the meaning of. All of this will be done to get across one simple point: Bands shouldn’t EVER pay for a SXSW show. That’s it.

So, here’s the background info: TwoGroove has been working to put together a little showcase (more info on that shortly!). In doing that, I’ve talked with a lot of bands about their schedules and what their plans for SXSW are. From those conversations and anecdotes from other promoters I started to hear about people paying to play unofficial SXSW showcases and to be on compilation CDs. At best, it’s not worth the hundreds of dollars for one show. At worst, it’s a outright scam.

One of the main offenders is a “radio station” called Radio RNR. I highly suggest you read this first hand experience from the band Conflict in the Sky. However, there are smaller examples where bands are asked to sell presale tickets or pay a fee. Yes, this happens outside of SXSW as well. It just seems more pronounced when some bands are able to get on 10 shows during the week without paying a single cent. No legitimate promoter will ever ask you to pay a fee to play a show (with tour buy-ins and co-promotion deals being notable exceptions), and shows are plentiful during SXSW.

And that’s the secondary point of this post: You can get a SXSW show if you do your homework. Everyone and their dog wants to throw a SXSW party. Those people need bands and DJs to play. The opportunity is there if you ask around early enough. Case in point, Random Ninjas heard about the TwoGroove party through Twitter and asked if we had set the lineup. We hadn’t, I offered them a slot, and now they are playing the show. You just need to keep apprised of what’s going on and be willing to reach out to promoters/blogs/whoever is possibly throwing a show.

Finally, if you’re late to the game just go ahead and chalk it up as a loss. You probably won’t find a worthwhile gig 2 weeks before SXSW starts. Either figure out some creative ways to promote your band (guerrilla shows on 6th street are always fun) or just go enjoy the festivities.