Idolator Takes On SXSW 2016 — Our Recap Of Day Two

Bianca Gracie | March 18, 2016 12:24 pm
SXSW 2016 — Day One Recap
We hula-hooped with Kacy Hill and watched Kacey Musgraves perform.

The one thing to learn quickly about SXSW is that in the midst of all the fun adventures, anything bad that can happen….will happen!

I started my day bright and early by heading to the Courtyard Marriott for a chat with Dawn Richard—or D∆WN as she is now known. We discussed everything from her upcoming RED*emp*tion album as well why she continues to be an independent artist. Look out for that interview coming soon!

Once I wrapped up with D∆WN and inhaled some brunch (courtesy of Island Records), it was time to head to the opposite side of the city to meet up with none other than Bibi Bourelly! The feisty singer/songwriter revealed her honest opinions about the music industry in an interview that Idolator readers should definitely keep an eye out for.

Then, it was time to fulfill my music fix even more! A few editors from the SPIN team and I popped into their AXE-partnered showcase, where John Legend charmed the crowd with hits like “All Of Me” and a cover of Bob Marley‘s “Redemption Song.” For fans of the soulful crooner, he shared that his fifth studio album—the first in three years—will arrive in September! Aluna Francis of AlunaGeorge, who was a one-woman show yesterday, looked every bit of a ’90s pop star as she ripped through fan favorites like “Attracting Flies,” “Automatic” and the duo’s current hit, “I’m In Control.”

We kept the musical train rocking, as we headed to the ever-reliable Fader Fort to take in a handful of both rising and solidified artists. First up was the completely badass Dua Lipa, who owned her set in a cool fashion that only the British can pull off! Her bold cover of Jamie xx‘s “(I Know There’s Gonna Be) Good Times” was the main highlight of my day.

Up next was Neon Indian, who provided a chill rush of psychedelia before the rowdy brothers of Rae Sremmurd closed out the fort with bangers like “By Chance” and “Up Like Trump.” “Fuck Donald Trump!” Slim Jxmmi exclaimed before him and his team began the party anthem.

At this point, I was a complete zombie who could barely walk on my calloused feet—but I kept on pushing since a special treat in the form of Tinashe was on the horizon! The popstress held a private show in collaboration with MAC Cosmetics at the Palazzo Lavaca, where she popped, locked, strutted and winked through “Party Favors,” “Ride of Your Life,” “Player” and “All Hands on Deck.”

By the time her show ended, it was definitely time for bed. But when you’re attending SXSW, sleep is the last thing on your mind! So I stuffed my face with Chick-fil-A before catching a rocking set by the too-cool-for-school duo The Kills at Stubhub’s showcase.

“Okay, now it’s time for me rest these feet and go to sleep,” I thought to myself after walking through massive crowds to return to the condo at The Beverly Austin. But unbeknownst to me (and a few SPIN and VIBE writers), sleep wouldn’t be in the picture until—get this—4 a.m. We were accidentally locked out of our room for two hours by one of our suitemates, which made our already-delusional selves even more delusional. As the wise Gucci Mane once said, “Rock star lifestyle might don’t make it.”

View some highlight photos and videos below!

We got to witness @tinashenow’s only #SXSW show last night, courtesy of @maccosmetics!!

A video posted by Idolator (@idolator) on

@tinashenow performing “Player” last night at @maccosmetics’ private #SXSW show! 💃🏽

A video posted by Idolator (@idolator) on

Be sure to check in throughout the week, as we will be reviewing shows and providing a daily recap! Also follow us on Twitter and Instagram to see what’s happening at SXSW through our eyes.

Are you attending SXSW this year? Let us know your favorite showcases below, or by hitting us up on Facebook and Twitter!