Why so many British bands showcase at SXSW

This is a really good article about governments which fund rock bands and other musical acts as part of their national economic development strategies. Festivals like SXSW and CMJ have turned into marketing opportunities.

Government-subsidized rock bands - New York Times: "In a little-understood chapter in the history of cultural exchange, nations from around the world have been choosing musical outfits and sending them to the biggest music markets abroad in hopes of raising their international profile and generating export sales. In a way, it makes perfect sense. ...

"From outward appearances, it might seem that the cultural compass just spins at random from one country to the next. But more and more the 'next big thing' title may reflect the deliberate efforts of government trade and culture officials, who routinely attend American music festivals, organize junkets for critics and record executives, and arrange coaching and subsidies for their homegrown acts. In Canada, which has one of the most established programs, artists can apply for an array of grants or loans to finance up to 75 percent of recording costs, advertising, marketing or touring expenses.

"Heather Ostertag, chief executive of Factor, the public-private Canadian agency that oversees music funds, said it controls a budget of roughly $12.4 million and handed out awards to one-third or more of the 3,800 applicants who sought support last year. Broken Social Scene and its label, for example, have been offered more than $140,000, she said. The Arcade Fire and Stars were also beneficiaries. ...

“'The government recognizes the importance of a cultural spend for a cultural identity,' Ms. Ostertag said. 'I think that we struggle as Canadians for our own Canadian identity. American dominance is so prevalent wherever you go.' Part of maintaining the nation’s place on the cultural map, she added, 'is happening through identifying ourselves through the success of other Canadians.'

"In Australia state and federal governments offer a series of programs. The country’s main export program offers to cover up to 50 percent of an act’s costs above the equivalent of $11,600. Over the last year trade officials provided roughly $1.8 million in grants to 80 recipients aimed at exporting their music. Past recipients included the Wiggles, the phenomenally popular music group catering to children.

"New Zealand has for several years helped cover recording costs, and recently created subsidies, overseen by music and broadcasting professionals, for artists and labels aiming to sell overseas. One recent grant went to Michael Tucker, who wanted to open a United States office for his independent label and marketing company, Loop Recordings. A fast-talking former hairdresser and fashion photographer, Mr. Tucker recently oversaw a show by one of his bands, the funk-reggae outfit the Black Seeds, at a swanky Los Angeles lounge. But not long ago he found himself at a government function hobnobbing with his government’s top ministers. 'I can shave,' he laughed. 'I can play that game.'"

economic development
sxsw
cmj