SXSW Prepares for 36th Year with an Electrifying Lineup Including Underground Dance Sensation New Order

New Order takes center stage at the 36th annual SXSW Music Festival this March accompanied by a cornucopia of remarkable acts in Austin, Texas. 

SXSW gears up for their 36th year announcing over 300 musical acts alongside electronica royalty, New Order. South by Southwest embarked on its first year in 1987. Original founder Roland Swenson was inspired after attending the New Music Seminar based in NYC in the 80s. He wanted to create Texas’s interpretation of the New York music festival in his own city. Subsequently, birthing Austin’s very own, South by Southwest.

Since then SXSW has become a staple in Austin’s culture and a destination for music enthusiasts worldwide. The preliminary lineup for this year was announced on Wednesday, October 19th, 2022. Including over 190 artists from all various genres of music. As the excitement ensued festival goers patiently waited for the complete roster to be unveiled. On January 25th, 2023 the news was shared. 

The Instagram post read, “Announcing 300+ new Showcasing Artists for the 2023 #SXSW Music Festival including New Order, Killer Mike, Coco & Clair Clair, Tangerine Dream, and more!” Moreover, the finalized lineup brought much delight enticing many to attend. “Whoa🔥🔥,” commented Glass Spells, San Diego-based synth-pop band. Okan, a Canadian Afro-Cuban jazz group chimed in as well “Can’t wait!!! 🙌” 

This year’s lineup is fiercely stacked but incorporating the legendary New Order is the double cherry on top. Specifically, the band arose from the ashes in 1980 as Joy Division fell apart due to the untimely death of lead singer, Ian Curtis. Both bands hail from Manchester, England. The city yielded a multitude of exceptional acts to follow Oasis, The Smiths, Bee Gees, and The Chemical Brothers. 

After all, New Order is truly a foundational element, weaving its way into music culture throughout the years. In 1996 their song, “Temptation,” was featured on the soundtrack for the cult classic film, Trainspotting. Nonetheless, on Monday, March 13th, New Order will be performing at ACL Live at the Moody Center for SXSW. In addition, to playing four other dates in the U.S. recently announced.

However, SXSW is around the corner taking place on March 10th-19th incorporating music, film, and comedy. Tickets and badges are still available. Although, if you’re not able to snag one, check out day shows throughout Austin. Local venues like The Mohawk, Hotel Vegas, and Cheer Up Charlies always have something to offer. SXSW is an essential experience, day parties, dancing, meeting new people, and overall enjoying the music!