SXSW 2025 MUSIC FESTIVAL: Artists to See
Written by Rhayla Candler, Amarylis Rodriguez on February 7, 2025
In preparation for this year’s SXSW, we have compiled a list of personal artists-to-watch. After spending much time discovering up-and-coming musicians, let’s dive into this year’s showcasing artists!
Rhayla’s Picks
Quelle Rox
The first artist that I am excited to tune into is a Latinx indie-pop superstar on the rise named Quelle Rox, or Rocky. Her song, “mas bonita” caught my attention as it reminds me of Kali Uchis’s ethereal sound. She is very proud of her Puerto Rican and Cuban roots and it is heavily embedded in her artistry. Rocky is a singer, songwriter, and producer and I am excited to see what she brings to the stage during her live performance on March 13th at 8pm.
Lucy Sugerman
Next up on the list is Australian singer-songwriter Lucy Sugerman. After listening to her newly released, “crumb,”(2025) my curiosity for her grows. Anything alternative-pop coupled with witty lyricism never fails to grab my attention and Sugerman is no different. As I explore her discography, I can see myself adding a few of her songs to my study playlist as it would make for great indie vibes in the background. I can very easily see her being compared to Cherry Glazerr. Lucy hits the stage at Zilker Brewing on March 11th at 7pm and I look forward to being there to see her perform live!
Xavier Omar
Lastly on my list is an artist that I am slightly familiar with. His name is Xavier Omar and he is a Texas-native coming from San Antonio, TX. He is an R&B-soul musician who has even been on Obama’s infamous “favorite songs” playlist in 2022 with his song “Blind Man.” The first song that I ever heard from Omar is called “Just Get Here” (2019) and I would describe it as a slow, but groovy R&B masterpiece with a warm blend of sounds. I love up and coming soul artists and I cannot wait to see Xavier Omar leave it all on the stage on March 13th at 9pm.
Amarylis’ Picks
Personal Trainer
I had the amazing chance to see Personal Trainer back at SXSW 2023, and let me just say, they were absolutely fantastic. From high-energy music, to an energetic stage presence, it is still a performance I think about to this day. This alternative rock band from Amsterdam is one that you do not want to miss. Find their showcase schedule here.
Freak Slug
Xenya Genovese, better known as Freak Slug, is an indie pop artist from England that has been on the rise lately. From hit songs such as “Radio” and “Care,” she has established herself as an highly-anticipated act at this year’s SXSW. Keep up with her showcase schedule here.
