Tracy Chou, Deonne Castaneda, Jack Conte, Selena Gomez & More Join the 2024 SXSW Conference
Today marks 10 days until the 2024 SXSW Conference & Festivals begin! Before we get into the thick of the Austin event, we've got another exciting round of new Keynotes and Featured Speakers set to join an already stellar lineup for the 38th edition of the SXSW Conference.
“Today’s speaker announcement features three incredible Keynotes who are doing important advocacy work in their respective fields, including protecting our online privacy and ensuring that creators can earn a living through their passions,” said Hugh Forrest, Co-President and Chief Programming Officer. “Tracy Chou and Deonne Castaneda, Jack Conte, and all the outstanding Featured Speakers announced today further solidify what promises to be a momentous and eventful conference program.”
Across 24 Tracks of programming, newly-announced Featured Speakers include Pamela Adlon, Samantha Bee, Danny Brown, Michael Dell, Colman Domingo, Kirsten Dunst, Ilana Glazer, Selena Gomez, Nick Kroll, Conan O’Brien, Lilly Singh, Sydney Sweeney, Margrethe Vestager, and more.
Register to attend by Saturday, March 2 at 11:59pm PT for your last chance to save off the walk-up badge rate. For the bold SXSW adventurer – go Platinum to access it all. A Platinum Badge unlocks Primary Access across all Conference sessions, Film & TV screenings, Music showcases, networking opportunities, and beyond from March 8-16, 2024 in Austin, TX.
Explore today's Conference programming additions below and add events to your SXSW Schedule.
Keynotes
Privacy-in-Progress: Redefining the Boundaries of Being Online: Founder and CEO of Block Party and co-founder of Project Tracy Chou and Head of Product Design at Block Party Deonne Castaneda share where we are now and what more we can do to shape a privacy-forward, safer Internet together.
Death of the Follower & the Future of Creativity on the Web: CEO of Patreon Jack Conte will explain how the current internet algorithms are killing the traditional "follower" for creators, threatening their creative freedom and livelihoods; and advocate for the new spaces on the internet (like Patreon) where creators can always connect with their communities, create what they want, and control their own destinies.
Featured Sessions
The Artist Creative Process
It’s easy to appreciate a work of art solely based on the final product, but this is only the tip of the iceberg. Behind a finished song or album is a trail of blood, sweat, and tears that were sacrificed, all for the sake of creating something that tells a story or leaves a lasting impact. The journey to this creation is different for everyone, as every artist has their own creative process and journey in how they approach their art. In this session, join singer, songwriter, orator, model, actress, visual artist, entrepreneur, and activist Kam Franklin, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Buffalo Nichols, singer, songwriter, guitarist and Jackie Venson, and moderator, emcee, television reporter, Writer-at-Large at Texas Monthly and Host of the National Podcast of Texas Andy Langer for a conversation about the artist creative process and how each artist approaches their process in creating music.
Backstage with Austin City Limits (ACL): Five Decades of Music
Take a look behind the scenes of the iconic PBS series that is now the longest-running music television program in history. As Austin City Limits begins celebrating its milestone 50th Anniversary in 2024, Associate Producer and Marketing Director Emily Bolf, Executive Producer Terry Lickona, Producer Jeff Peterson, and Chief Content Officer at Austin PBS Sara Robertson will reflect on their experiences curating, delivering, and preserving the best in authentic, original music to fans around the country and world. The panel will also discuss their vision for the future, including their thoughts on keeping art accessible and what the next fifty years of Austin City Limits could look like.
The Beautiful Exchange: Front Row with the Sing Sing Cast
In this session, Emmy Award-winning, Academy Award-nominated, Golden Globe Award-nominated, and two-time Tony Award-nominated actor, playwright, and producer Colman Domingo, actor Clarence "Divine Eye" Maclin, Academy Award-nominated actor Paul Raci, and writer, director, performer, new works producer, Creative Executive of Edith Productions, and Artistic Director of the Magic Theatre in San Francisco Sean San José take us into the improbable alchemy of blending stage, screen, and unscripted moments into transcendent performances in their new film Sing Sing. Sing Sing will have its U.S. Premiere at the SXSW Film & TV Festival.
Behind The Billboard Charts
Billboard’s first national music chart launched over 80 years ago, and the Billboard rankings - including industry standards the Hot 100 and Billboard 200 - remain the definitive measurement of success in music, tracking the world’s most popular songs, albums, and artists. From The Beatles to Beyonce and everyone in between, Billboard has ranked the hits for decades across countless charts. In this session, hear from Managing Director of Charts & Data Operations at Billboard Keith Caulfield, senior music executive and founder of 10:22PM Celine Joshua, and Executive Vice President of Charts & Data Partnerships at Billboard Silvio Pietroluongo to find out how the Billboard Charts have been modernized and globalized to reflect the many means of music consumption in an ever-evolving borderless digital and social age.
Business, Life, and the Magic of Austin: A Conversation with Michael Dell
The entrepreneurial mindset - is it something you’re born with or something you can cultivate? After 40 years in business, Chairman and CEO of Dell Technologies Michael Dell will be sharing his thoughts on risk taking, having the courage of your conviction, reinvention, and the magic of Austin. A technology optimist at heart, this session with Dell and founder and CEO of Moor Insights & Strategy Patrick Moorhead will also discuss today’s hottest tech trends, including the opportunities we have with AI and how it will transform industries.
Conan O'Brien Must Go
Following his 28-year run as a host in late night, four-time Emmy Award-winning television host, comedian, writer, producer, and host of the podcast Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend Conan O'Brien is returning to television! In this session, join O'Brien and three-time Emmy Award-nominated actor, voice actor, comedian, writer, and producer Nick Kroll as they talk about O'Brien’s new travel series CONAN O’BRIEN MUST GO. Fans in the room will witness never-before-seen footage of the four-episode series featuring O’Brien visiting new friends met through his podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan, where he dives deep with listeners from across the country and the world.
A Conversation with Civil War Filmmaker Alex Garland and Cast
On the heels of the World Premiere of Civil War at the SXSW Film & TV Festival, Academy Award-nominated filmmaker and genre master Alex Garland (Ex Machina, Annihilation, 28 Day Later) will participate in an in-depth conversation about the making of his latest adrenaline-fueled thrill ride that takes us through a near-future fractured America balanced on the razor's edge. Academy Award-nominated, four-time Golden Globe Award-nominated, and Emmy Award-nominated actor Kirsten Dunst, actor, director, and filmmaker Wagner Moura, and Golden Globe Award-nominated actor Cailee Spaeny will also be joining Garland to discuss the film.
A Conversation with Sydney Sweeney
Two-time Emmy Award-nominated actress, producer, and founder of Fifty-Fifty Films Sydney Sweeney has become one of the most sought-after talents of her generation, captivating global audiences with her many buzz-worthy, critically acclaimed, and iconic roles. In this session, Sweeney will reflect on her career thus far, which has included roles as the standout character ‘Cassie’ in Euphoria and the seemingly woke millennial ‘Olivia’ who dished out side-eye and microaggressions every chance she had in The White Lotus. Sweeney will also discuss her most recent project Anyone But You, the 2024 SXSW Film & TV Festival World Premiere of Immaculate, future projects Eden and Echo Valley, and the inception of Sweeney’s production company, Fifty-Fifty Films.
Good Humor: Lilly Singh on Her Entertainment-First Approach to Changing Culture
In this session, Emmy Award-winning entertainer, actress, writer, and producer Lilly Singh will discuss how her company, Unicorn Island Productions, uses an entertainment-first approach to storytelling without compromising important social commentary that ignites impact. There is nothing funny about shame, but as the co-writer, producer, and star of her debut film feature, Doin' It, Singh will share how she employs comedy to subvert cultural norms and expectations to change culture. Singh will also discuss her learnings from the independent filmmaking process on Doin’ It, which will have its World Premiere at this year’s SXSW Film & TV Festival.
The International Touring Boom for Artists
How does the live entertainment industry keep up with the perceived 'overnight' success of rising artists? Does skyrocketing on streaming platforms and social channels equate to selling out massive venues? In this session, Talent Manager at Baron Management Jon Lieberberg and Senior Vice President, Live Nation Latin Touring Hans Schafer will dive into these topics while discussing how the globalization of music turned into some of the most successful global tours for artists like RBD, Karol G, Peso Pluma, Kali Uchis, and others from all over the world. Where did the demand come from, how does touring fill the demand for these artists, what's next, and what is fueling this momentum?
KISS MY GRASS: Why Women of Color Deserve Better In Weed
This session will delve into the compelling narrative of Kiss My Grass, a gripping film executive produced by industry trailblazers Colin Kaepernick, Rosario Dawson, Mary Pryor, Luke Anderson, and Justin Benoliel. Through the lens of this documentary, you will embark on a journey that unveils the stark reality of persistent inequity within a rapidly expanding industry. Join founder and CEO of Josephine & Billie’s and Vice President of Supernova Women Whitney Beatty, actress, producer, activist, and founder of The Rio Dawn Foundation Rosario Dawson, founder of WeFancy and UrbanSocialista, co-founder of Cannaclusive, and Chief Marketing Officer for Tonic CBD and Tricolla Farms Mary Pryor, CEO of WISECO Hope Wiseman, and co-founder and Executive Director of Our Academy Hilary L. Yu as they explore the relentless battle against corruption and the daunting scarcity of support faced by Black women entrepreneurs. Their stories encapsulate the resilience and determination required to navigate a landscape fraught with obstacles. Prepare to be moved as you dive into the heart of their experiences, shedding light on the true cost of their relentless pursuit of success. Together, you will hear the behind the scenes real life narratives behind their storytelling in amplifying voices and sparking meaningful change.
Live from Space: NASA Astronauts & Your Work in Orbit
Orbiting 250 miles above your head is a state-of-the-art scientific lab, and it's got space for everyone. In this session, join International Space Station Program Chief Scientist at NASA Jennifer Buchli, Public Affairs Officer at NASA’s Johnson Space Center Leah Cheshier, Deputy Chief Scientist for NASA’s Human Research Program Dr. Kristin Fabre, and NASA Astronauts Jeanette Epps and Loral O’Hara and find out how you can get involved with the International Space Station to fly a scientific experiment, move your business forward, or find inspiration from the explorers living and working there. Plus, find out how to spot the station when it flies over your part of the globe! This session will feature a live Q&A with Epps and O’Hara while they’re in space.
Live Podcast Episode of Visitations with Elijah Wood & Daniel Noah (Previously Announced)
Writer and Director of I Saw the TV Glow Jane Schoenbrun joins writer, director, and co-founder of SpectreVision Daniel Noah and actor, producer, and co-founder of SpectreVision Elijah Wood in the previously-announced session Live Podcast Episode of Visitations with Elijah Wood & Daniel Noah. I Saw the TV Glow will have its Texas Premiere at the SXSW Film & TV Festival.
Mindfulness Over Perfection: Getting Real On Mental Health
It’s tempting to share only the highlight reel of our lives, but when we’re open about the difficult moments as well, we make it easier to tap into our emotions and create space for other people to process theirs, too. In this session, two-time Grammy Award-nominated artist and Golden Globe Award-nominated actor, producer, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and co-founder of Wondermind Selena Gomez, licensed clinical psychologist, consultant, speaker, media personality, founder and CEO of Three Lemons and clinical assistant professor at NYU Langone Health Dr. Jessica Stern, co-founder and CEO of Wondermind Mandy Teefey, NFL Defensive Lineman for the New York Jets and co-founder and Board Chair of The Defensive Line Solomon Thomas, and licensed marriage and family therapist and Psychotherapist for the Detroit Pistons Dr. Corey Yeager will explore the importance of bringing mental health conversations into the light - not just for decreasing stigma and building awareness, but as a way to deal in hard times. This conversation will cover the importance of flexibility over strict routines in mental healthcare, dealing with negative self-talk, and getting real about when you’re not feeling OK.
Moviegoing Lift: Loyalty, Subscription & MoviePass
Whether it be movie ticket subscription plans, discount Tuesdays, or cheaper concessions, movie theaters are constantly coming up with offers that get people to the cinema, and sometimes for more than just to see a film. How often do you now go to the theater to meet someone for a drink? Or did you just need to have that Taylor Swift commemorative bucket of popcorn? In this session, Executive Director of The Cinema Foundation Bryan Braunlich, award-winning entertainment correspondent at Business Insider Jason Guerrasio, Vice President of Marketing at Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas Chaya Rosenthal, and author, co-founder and CEO of MoviePass, and founder of Urbanworld Film Festival Stacy Spikes will explain how loyalty plans and outside-the-box ideas have changed the game when it comes to going to the movies.
Music Industry Remix: Equity for Next-Gen Creators
Motivated by racial justice movements – companies and professionals across the music and entertainment industry publicly committed to investing in marginalized communities to create equitable spaces for Next-Gen creators of color to succeed. While progress has been made, it's time to double down. In this session curated by the Save The Music Foundation, Social Impact Lead for Global Creator Partnerships at Meta Mayola Charles, Chief Brand Officer at Billboard Dana Droppo, Flyana Boss members Folayan and Bobbi LaNea, and entrepreneur, audio engineer, sound artist, music producer, songwriter, entertainer, and founder and CEO of Beyond Average Sound Raj Will will discuss trends and barriers for underrepresented youth and offer actionable solutions to advance equitable resources for young creators to thrive.
The Ringer’s ‘House of R’ Live Podcast
In this session, join New York Times bestselling author and cultural critic for The Ringer Joanna Robinson and Head of Editorial at The Ringer Mallory Rubin, your go-to podcast hosts for all things nerd culture and fandom, for a live show of their podcast House of R. The session will include games, discussions of your favorite films, TV, and books, as well as a live Q&A.
Samantha Bee's Choice Words Live with Ilana Glazer, Pamela Adlon, and Michelle Buteau
We all make on average 35,000 decisions a day--and on each episode of her podcast Choice Words, a production of Lemonada Media, Emmy Award-winning comedian, writer, producer, political commentator, actress, and television host Samantha Bee and her guests unpack big and small ones that have shaped their lives and careers. So make a good choice and join Sam for a live recording of Choice Words featuring Emmy Award-winning and Golden Globe Award-nominated actor, writer, producer, and director of NEON's Babes Pamela Adlon and Babes cast members, actress, comedian, creator, and writer Michelle Buteau and actor, writer, and producer of Babes Ilana Glazer. Babes will have its World Premiere at the SXSW Film & TV Festival and will be released by NEON in May.
State Of Being: How To Care in 2024 with Ilana Glazer, Danny Brown, Texas Rep. James Talarico, and the ACLU
Feeling overwhelmed, disappointed, or straight up bleak about the political landscape in this crucial election year? Join rapper and singer Danny Brown, comedian, actor, and advocate Ilana Glazer, Texas State Representative James Talarico, and ACLU’s Nationwide Director of Artist & Entertainment Engagement Jessica Weitz to discover why voting at the local, city, and state-level matters more than you think, with artists, activists, and elected officials who may, dare we say, give you a little hope.
Technology, Leadership, Geopolitics and the Future
Growing up, our teachers emphasized the need to learn math by saying we would not always have a calculator in our pocket. Today, not only do we all have calculators, but cameras, emails, travel apps, instantaneous news, dating apps, and other social networks right at our fingertips. Yet while we have engineered new ways to measure success or quantify our worth, whether by “like” counts or followers and interactions, few of us stop to consider the long term impacts of uploading and broadcasting our lives online. Today, as innovation accelerates and the psychological and social risks of technology become increasingly apparent, lawmakers are trying to keep up by implementing regulations that reflect transatlantic leadership and democratic use of technology. Given that technology knows no borders, several questions remain. In this session, join CEO and President of The 19th News Emily Ramshaw and Executive Vice President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Competition and 2024 SXSW Hall of Fame inductee Margrethe Vestager for a discussion on these questions, such as how will shifts in geopolitics drive regulation? How should governments incentivize companies to use AI for good? What impact will the demand for innovation have on the environment? And will we ever be able to explain to future generations what it means to live without technology?
Women at the Crossroads of Independent Music, Culture, and Entrepreneurship
In this session focused on the intersection of music, culture, and entrepreneurship, founder and CEO of Culture Creators Joi Brown, Content Director at ESSENCE Magazine Nandi Howard, DJ, producer, creative curator, and founder of The House of Milo DJ Rosegold, and rapper, singer, and songwriter Kodie Shane will explore how women are using their cultural backgrounds to shape unique paths in the music industry and beyond. This discussion will delve into the challenges and triumphs of maintaining cultural authenticity, the journey of becoming independent in a competitive industry, and how these experiences shape their entrepreneurial ventures.
Your First Million: Why You Don’t Have to be Born Into a Legacy of Wealth to Leave One Behind
In this session, join serial entrepreneur, philanthropist, and founder and CEO of Blackbird Collective Bridgid Coulter Cheadle and author and founder of Backstage Capital and HireRunner.co Arlan Hamilton as they explore the power of wealth as a tool for options and change. Reflecting on her journey from poverty to leading a multi-million dollar VC firm, Hamilton will debunk wealth myths and emphasize entrepreneurship as a means to achieve financial empowerment. She'll reveal how anyone can leverage modern tools and funding to launch their million-dollar idea. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, an established business owner, or someone looking to shift your financial mindset, this session promises to be a transformative experience. Walk away with actionable steps to not only chase but achieve your first million, irrespective of your starting point.
Featured Speakers
Vice President of Product Management of Smart Glasses at Meta Li-Chen Miller
Join Us at SXSW 2024
Time is ticking! Save off the walk-up rate when you register by Saturday, March 2 at 11:59pm PT. Learn more about the all-access Platinum Badge, plus our exclusive group rates for teams of 10 or more and other savings opportunities for enrolled students.
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By Luis Seijo
02/27/2024