SXSW 2026: Latin Music Takes Center Stage in Austin

South by Southwest (SXSW) is rapidly becoming a premier destination for Latin music, with a significant increase in Latin artists featured at the 2026 festival. The 40th anniversary of the iconic event promises to be its biggest year for the genre in over a decade, reflecting the global rise of Latin music.

A Growing Presence

In 2024, approximately 60 Latin music acts performed at SXSW. By 2026, that number has more than doubled, exceeding 150 artists according to reports. This growth is attributed to the increasing popularity of Latin music worldwide and a concerted effort by SXSW to showcase emerging talent.

De Los Showcase Returns

For the third consecutive year, De Los, the Latino-centric vertical of the Los Angeles Times, will host a showcase at SXSW. The De Los showcase will celebrate Latin music and feature a diverse lineup of rising artists. This year, the music portion of the festival will be integrated into a week-long event alongside film, TV, and interactive programming.

Featured Artists

Although established acts like Fuerza Regida and Junior H are slated to perform, the focus at SXSW remains on discovering the next generation of stars. Here are some of the artists generating buzz:

• Large Soto: The Venezuelan-born rapper, now based in Mexico, signed to Rimas Entertainment, has been a leading figure in the Latin trap movement.
• Mariangela: The Texas-based Mexican singer is evolving her sound, incorporating cumbia norteña influences into her alt-pop style.
• Esty: A first-generation Dominican American artist who blends dembow, alternative rock, bachata, and pop.
• Marilina Bertoldi: An avant-garde alt-rocker from Buenos Aires, praised for her unique sound and attitude.
• Ruido Selecto: Hailing from Medellín, Colombia, this artist blends Caribbean rhythms with electronic and Afro-diasporic styles.
• Delilah: A Mexican American singer with a background in mariachi, blending traditional and contemporary Mexican music.
• Danny Felix: The producer behind Natanael Cano’s “Soy el Diablo (Remix)” featuring Poor Bunny, shaping the sound of corridos tumbados.
• 60 Juno: A Central Valley post-punk band from California, known for their hazy, dreamlike sound.
• Ria: A singer-songwriter who previously wrote songs for other artists, now showcasing her soulful voice and emotional lyrics.
• Sebaxxss: The on-tour DJ for Feid, bringing his expertise to a more intimate venue.
• Tell them not to kill me (Diles que no me maten): An experimental, psychedelic rock band from Mexico City.
• Eydrey: A rising artist who gained recognition on Netflix’s “La Firma” and blends R&B, Mexican, and reggaeton influences.
• Lena Dardelet: A Dominican Republic-based artist fusing pop with Caribbean genres, including bachata.
• Mosmo: Signed with Rimas Entertainment, this Hermosillo singer brings a crooning element to the corrido world.
• Selines: A singer-songwriter inspired by Natalia Lafourcade, drawing on boleros, classical music, and jazz.

Looking Ahead

SXSW 2026 is poised to be a landmark event for Latin music, showcasing both established and emerging artists. The festival’s commitment to diversity and discovery promises a vibrant and exciting experience for attendees and a significant boost for the Latin music industry. The De Los showcase, taking place on Sunday, March 15 at Mala Fama, will be a key highlight of the festival.