Here’s Why SXSW Artists Are Pulling Out
Several artists withdrew from SXSW 2024, citing ties to the defense industry. The U.S. Army and Collins Aerospace, part of the event, sparked controversy.
Singer-songwriter Ella Williams, AKA Squirrel Flower, opposed involvement with companies like RTX, labeling them “genocide profiteers” supplying weapons to the Israel Defense Forces. She withdrew from official showcases.
RTX is involved in various areas, including aerospace and defense technologies, providing products and services in military and commercial aviation, missile systems, and space exploration.
Following Squirrel Flower, Eliza McLamb, Shalom, and Mamalarky also withdrew, refusing to contribute to an event linked to the “U.S. war machine” and its connection to violence against Palestinians. Despite withdrawals, these musicians plan to perform at unofficial shows in Austin from March 8 to March 16.
— eliza (@elizamclamb) March 4, 2024
The Austin for Palestine Coalition urged SXSW to sever ties with RTX, emphasizing the responsibility to advocate for peace, justice, and human rights in Gaza. They stated that SXSW’s credibility is at stake; it must take decisive action against the normalization of militarization.
Additional artists, including Proper, Merce Lemon, and Gel, withdrew from SXSW. Flatspot Records canceled its “Flatspot World” showcase in solidarity. Headliner Scowl refused collaboration in the face of Palestinian genocide. Kneecap cited ethical concerns, refusing to attend a festival sponsored by the U.S. Army and featuring RTX. Support for artists canceling performances came from Get Better Records and the labor group United Musicians and Allied Workers. These withdrawals mirror a growing movement within the music industry against military associations.
Free Palestine. pic.twitter.com/AW71rrzmtX
— SCOWL (@Scowl40831) March 8, 2024
The war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip. The attack took place on Shemini Atzeret, a Jewish holiday, and killed 1,200 people, including 35 Americans. In response, Israel declared war on Hamas and launched aerial bombardment and ground operations in Gaza on October 7, 2023. As of February 5, 2024, more than 27,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed.
SXSW stands for South by Southwest, an annual conglomerate of film, interactive media, music festivals, and conferences in Austin, Texas. Founded in 1987, it has become one of the largest and most well-known festivals.
