The BMI Brunch at SXSW is always a hot ticket, and we were delighted to be added to the guest list for this year’s edition. A marquee event on the festival calendar, it served up an incredible mix of rising talent alongside a delicious spread of breakfast tacos—an unbeatable way to start the day.
This year’s lineup was a showcase of diverse songwriting talent, featuring the likes of JC Stewart, Presley Haile, Chri$tian Gate$, Tish Melton, J Soulja, and more. Kicking things off was JC Stewart, an exceptional Irish singer-songwriter whose heartfelt lyrics and stunning vocals set the perfect tone for the morning. His performance was nothing short of mesmerising, drawing the crowd in from the first note.
Moving outside, Presley Haile’s rich vocals filled the space, perfectly complementing and prolonging the chilled atmosphere. However, not every act hit the mark. Sierre Spirit seemed to struggle vocally—perhaps exhaustion from SXSW’s gruelling schedule played a part. Emmeline also wasn’t quite our vibe; taking to the outside stage, she felt a bit out of her depth, avoiding eye contact with the crowd, which created a noticeable disconnect.
Beyond the music, the BMI Brunch was a prime networking opportunity, bringing together some of the most influential figures in the industry. Sponsored by Agazul, Coca-Cola, Dickel, ONErpm, Smartwater, Topo Chico, and White Claw, the event delivered not just top-tier talent but also a top-tier experience.
From the incredible music to the buzzing atmosphere and delicious food, the BMI Brunch once again proved why it’s one of SXSW’s most sought-after events. If you ever get the chance to attend, don’t think twice—it’s an unmissable highlight of the festival.
