SXSW is always a playground for great and talented musicians of all genres and walks of life. But even greater than that, it is a one of a kind festival that joins film, music and tech nerds in a huge way — all people who cannot survive without each other. It is the mecca of networking, conversation and enlightenment for every level of creative person. The festival itself however, is not the only organization out there doing a more than amazing job of conjoining artistic people to make their dreams and goals possible.

My first night spent in Austin, TX, I had the pleasure of spending my time with Playing for Change, a not-for-profit group out of New Orleans. They are a collective of musicians and film people that set out to ensure that anyone with the desire to receive a music education would have the opportunity to do so. Playing for Change has provided over 600 students with the education they desired and supplied over 100 jobs to music folks since they started in 2004. The crew that makes up Playing for Change is not only out to teach, but they are also madly talented and come from all walks of life, making this one of those unique and genuine outlets that enlightens everyone that let’s them touch them. The member of Playing for Change that steals my heart the most is Grandpa Elliot, a street performer:

You can now download the Playing for Change rendition of, “Stand by Me,” from the Swag Store for 199 SB.

Another outstanding and unsuspecting performer during night one of SXSW was, Beardyman. A beat boxer with a flair for showmanship and noise making. Check out his version of Prince’s “Kiss,” from that night at Maggie Mae’s:

Yes, that is done with nothing but a mic! Support the progression of unique talent like this and download his single “Rock the Joint,” from the Swag Store for 199 SB.

And for a grand finale of night one, I was blessed enough to have been in the first SXSW audience to see James Blake perform during SXSW. This 21 year-old gentleman brought the crowd at Stubb’s BBQ to complete silence as their hearts melted to “The Wilhelm Scream.”

This artist is not only soothing on the soul, but his strong dubstep influences are a newly welcomed convergence of sound. There was a lot of hype on this young artist coming into SXSW and his humility provided space for him to meet and exceed many fans’ expectations. You can now download this calming track, “The Wilhelm Scream,” from the Swag Store for 199 SB.

Young artists of both the UK and USA are finding unique ways to meld music of the past, present and future to bring together all walks of life and I am thankful that SXSW is here doing an excellent job of brining everyone together. More refreshing acts and news to come from my SXSW journey….

Julianna