7 International Artists to See at SXSW 2019

Aren’t sure what talent to find at South by Southwest this year? Here’s a guide to help you find hidden international gems before they hit it big time in the United States.

Written by Emily Gruner

1. Nadia Nakai - South Africa

Nakai’s flair brings an undeniable energy to rap. Not only did she open for Chance the Rapper when he performed in South Africa, but she also has her own clothing line with South African company Sportscene. Nakai hasn’t released her debut album yet, but you can sing along to her newest single “Yaas Bitch!”

For more on Nadia Nakai’s schedule, click here.

2. Georgia - United Kingdom

In an interview with The Guardian in 2015, Georgia described herself a “melting pot” and her music as “post-punky hip-hop soul.” After the London multi-instrumentalist’s fiery self-titled debut in 2015, Georgia decided to take a break because “the buzz around the first album was so fast-moving.” Her latest single, “Started Out,” is a synth-filled soundscape imbued with Chicago house influences that solidified her return to the indie pop music scene.

For more on Georgia’s schedule, click here.

3. Trupa Trupa - Poland

The Polish punk outfit’s edgy psych-rock landed them as one of Rolling Stone’s best artists at SXSW 2018, and they’re coming back for more this year. Trupa Trupa imbues their music with delicate lyrics — a typical afterthought in heavy rock music — giving them an intriguing sound worth checking out.

For more on Trupa Trupa’s schedule, click here.

4. BEA1991 - Netherlands

If you’re a fan of Blood Orange, you can credit BEA1991 for songwriting and vocals for the songs “With Him,” “E.V.P.,” and “Squash Squash” from 2016’s Freetown Sound. However, BEA has been making her own steamy electro-pop since 2014. Her new single, “V4,” pairs eerie electropop with experimental vocals and soulful beats, creating a sound that takes the listener to another dimension. This single and her visit to SXSW raise suspicions of a debut album, and she’s predicted to perform some unreleased songs at her showcases.

For more on BEA1991’s schedule, click here.

5. Big Phony - South Korea

Image courtesy of Brian Won Illustrations

Bobby Choy, formally known as Big Phony, describes himself as a fan of Elliot Smith, Death Cab For Cutie, and –– most importantly –– Alvin and the Chipmunks. You might have heard of K-pop, but Bobby Choy is bringing a new scene to the forefront: K-indie. Choy’s work like his single, “Bedford Stop,” shows that Choy could be the new Elliott Smith. His smooth voice, melancholy lyrics, and light folk chords are the perfect elements for a lazy Sunday afternoon.

For more on Big Phony’s schedule, click here.

6. Cimafunk - Cuba

Cimafunk’s biography on South by Southwest’s website describes him Cimafunk as “a free being defying classification, a pilgrim in search of new musical miscegenation and the reunion of black music.” Making music for the power of groove and “the communion of dancing bodies,” Cimafunk’s progressive ideals and efforts to bring people together through the power of funk is bound to make any set he plays an overall good vibe.

For more on Cimafunk’s schedule, click here.

7. The Beths - New Zealand

2018 was a huge year for this New Zealand quartet. They signed onto Carpark records and embarked on a world tour. Moreover, they released their debut album, Future Me Hates Me, which has received massive critical acclaim in the indie rock world. Before even releasing their freshman album, their single “Happy Unhappy” was named Rolling Stone’s Song of the Summer for 2018. Their high-energy hooks are will make you start moving, and the lyrics are masterful. Next stop for them after a world tour? You guessed it –– South by Southwest!

For more on The Beths’ schedule, click here.

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Afterglow ATXMarch 8, 2019sxsw