BBC Introducing & PRS for Music Foundation at SXSW 2016 | The Line-Up
Held annually in Austin, Texas, South by Southwest (SXSW) has grown in both size and scope since first taking place in March 1987. The event provides a glimpse into the future of music, with venues across the city hosting live sets from many of the most exciting breakout acts around. In 2016 BBC Introducing return to the festival alongside PRS for Music Foundation, to showcase a group of the brightest new UK artists - read on to discover the full line-up and why they're heading to Austin in March...
BILLE MARTEN
From: Ripon in North Yorkshire
Nothing but an exciting future awaits Billie Marten. She gained her first radio play via BBC Introducing in York and North Yorkshire and quickly picked up momentum. Her spellbinding vocal style and delicate lyrics have won over many fans, including Jo Whiley on Radio 2 and Tom Robinson at 6 Music. Her debut EP 'As Long As' released on the reputable Chess Club Records, showcases an incredible talent way ahead of her years.
The buzz: “Striking songwriting from a teenage prodigy...” CLASH
ESTRONS
From: Cardiff
Their breakthrough track 'Make A Man' is an unrelenting step out onto the new music radar. Fronted by Canadian-Swede Taliesyn Kallström, ESTRONS have cultivated a sound rich in sonic power, complemented by passionate and confrontational lyrics. Huw Stephens and Annie Mac have supported the four piece already on Radio 1 along with plays from Steve Lamacq on 6 Music. 2016 is set to be a huge year for the band, with a debut UK tour already in the diary ahead of their trip to Texas for SXSW.
The Buzz: "'Make A Man' will blow your heart to pieces and you'll love every second of it" Gigwise
FRANCES
From: Newbury
Singer-songwriter Sophie Frances Cooke is set for a monumental year, she's already notched up a BRIT nomination in the Critics' Choice Award category. Since first Uploading her music to BBC Introducing two years ago she's been championed by her local show in Berkshire. Since then she's not looked back, going on to receive support from Jo Whiley, including a performance at Maida Vale in 2015 live on BBC Radio 2. Her tender, flowing sound is at it's best on track 'Let It Out': described by the Guardian as "big and delicate at the same time".
The Buzz: “'Let it Out' finds enough space for Frances' assured voice to lead and dominate the song, which is as understated as it is brilliant" The Line Of Best Fit
ISAAC GRACIE
From: Ealing
First brought to the attention of BBC Introducing in Norfolk six months ago when his startling good track 'Last Words' landed in their inbox, Isaac Gracie has since been on a rather rapid upward trajectory. The dusty lo-fi track has set the music industry alight with excitement and Isaac's initial live shows have certainly lived up to the hype too. His set at SXSW for BBC Introducing and PRS for Music Foundation will no doubt cement his name as one of the brightest musical exports from the UK in 2016. Well and truly - one to watch.
The Buzz: "Something very special..." NME
THE SHERLOCKS
From: Sheffield
A band of brothers: Kiaran and Brandon Crook, along with Josh and Andy Davidson - The Sherlocks are one of the most hotly tipped new indie acts to come out of Sheffield. With a classic alternative sound, the boys channel The Clash, The Jam and The Police. They've gone on to play high profile support slots with indie heroes The Libertines and Coventry trio The Enemy. Having already built a sizable fanbase across the UK, expect to hear indie anthems a 'plenty from these guys in 2016.
The Buzz: "quintessential indie-rock" Forge Press
VIOLA BEACH: a tribute
From: Warrington
First discovered by BBC Introducing in Merseyside, Viola Beach quickly brought their sparkling, bright tunes to the forefront of the UK's indie scene. Debut single 'Swings and Waterslides' surfaced last summer and received a huge reaction online. Following the tragic passing of all four band members; Kris Leonard, River Reeves, Tomas Lowe, Jack Dakin and their manager Craig Tarry in a car crash in Sweden their slot on the line-up will not be replaced. Their music and lives will instead be celebrated during a special moment at the showcase.
Watch BBC Introducing's tribute to Viola Beach
- The BBC Introducing and PRS for Music Foundation SXSW showcase takes place on Wednesday 16th March at Latitude 30 in Austin, Texas. Highlights from the show will be available to watch online later that week
