A mind-boggling 2,200 artists from around the world flock to Austin every year to vie for the attention of fans and influencers at the South By Southwest music and media conference. We asked a few of them why they joined the herd.

Shamir

"I came to SXSW to turn up and share my music with the WORLD."

Reggie Ugwu/BuzzFeed

Natalie Prass

"To CRUSH + DESTROY!!! And just play and be real. XOXO"

Reggie Ugwu/BuzzFeed

Meg Mac

"To sing. For new people in new places."

Reggie Ugwu/BuzzFeed

Fetty Wap

"I came to SXSW to show the world ZOOGANG!"

Reggie Ugwu/BuzzFeed

View Entire List ›