Bridging Music and Social Impact at SXSW 2023: A Night for Action
The vibrant city of Austin will once again come alive with the dynamic energy of the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, but this year, music meets a meaningful mission. In an extraordinary collaboration, Artist for Action and Sandy Hook Promise are joining forces to present the Take Action x SXSW event series, a powerful blend of live performances, interactive art, and thought-provoking discussions. The event is set to take place on March 10 at Mohawk and March 11 at Empire Control Room & Garage, promising an unforgettable experience that transcends mere entertainment, aiming to inspire change.
The lineup for these nights is nothing short of impressive, featuring a diverse array of talents. Passion Pit, known for their electrifying energy, will share the stage with the smooth, soulful voice of Ginuwine, the iconic alt-rock band Everclear, and a host of emerging artists like The Dumes, Tribe Friday, and JC Stewart. Each performance is not just a showcase of musical prowess but a contribution to a greater cause. The events will also feature interactive art installations that challenge perceptions and spark dialogue, creating an immersive experience that goes beyond the music. To foster deeper engagement, the Music and Social Impact Summit will bring together industry experts for panels and workshops, while community gatherings, including complimentary brunch and happy hour, will offer spaces for connection and collaboration.
At the heart of this initiative is the Artist for Action coalition, a non-political group of musicians and advocates dedicated to ending the gun violence epidemic. Founded in 2023, this movement has already garnered support from influential figures like Billie Eilish, Peter Gabriel, and Sheryl Crow. The coalition’s work is deeply personal for its co-founder, Mark Barden, who lost his 7-year-old son Daniel in the tragic 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Barden, a professional guitarist turned advocate, has channeled his grief into action, first through Sandy Hook Promise, a nonprofit focused on violence prevention in schools and communities. Now, through Artist for Action, he is rallying the music community to amplify this critical mission.
The artists participating in the event are equally passionate about the cause. Michael Angelakos of Passion Pit shared a heartfelt message, reflecting on his grandmother’s wisdom: “Our purpose is to serve others and be of assistance to those in need.” This ethos of service drives his involvement with Artist for Action and Sandy Hook Promise. Similarly, Ginuwine expressed his admiration for the organizations’ work, emphasizing the importance of using music as a platform for education and dialogue. For these artists, performing at Take Action x SXSW is not just another gig—it’s an opportunity to make a difference.
Mark Barden encapsulated the event’s purpose beautifully: “Music has the power to bring people together and inspire action.” He emphasized that violence prevention education and advocacy are already making an impact across the country, driven by the efforts of young people and adults alike. These efforts are not only saving lives but also fostering a cultural shift towards safety and empathy. The event, Barden believes, is a testament to what can be achieved when people come together, united by a common goal.
James Minor, SXSW’s Vice President of Music Festival, praised Artist for Action’s ability to execute impactful events. He highlighted the passion behind the production, which is evident in every detail. This event is a prime example of how music can serve as a powerful catalyst for change, proving that when creativity and commitment come together, extraordinary things can happen. The Take Action x SXSW series is not just a celebration of music—it’s a call to action, a reminder that each of us has a role to play in building a safer, more compassionate world.
