Perform at the biggest independent event during SXSW.
Every year, the Makin' It Compound brings together THOUSANDS of artists, fans, DJs, media, managers, and industry tastemakers for a full day of performances, networking, interviews, and content creation.
Performing at the Makin’ It Compound has helped artists:
- Secure FM radio play and DJ support
- Get booked for other stages and showcases during SXSW
- Connect with management and industry execs
- Land interviews, media coverage, and playlist placements
- Build momentum through content, networking, and visibility
This is NOT an open mic. This is an exclusive performance opportunity in a room filled with people who can take your career to the next level.
Hear From Artists & Attendees
If you've never been to the Makin' It Compound, see what past attendees and performers have to say about their experience.
Performance Options
The Compound is home to multiple events, each with it's own vibe and audience. Perform for real Fans and Industry Tastemakers to BREAK your record.
Pick the stages that best fit your brand, music, and goals.
Lock in performances on multiple stages and touch everyone.
Option 1: Standard Performance
3 minutes / 1 song
$200 Flat Rate
Valid for Thursday, Friday, or Sunday (not Saturday)
- Perform during Compound week in front of real fans and industry tastemakers
- Great for artists who want SXSW visibility without Saturday premium pricing
- Limited slots available each day
Tip: Want the biggest crowd and eligibility for the BET Weekend bonus? Choose a Saturday option below.
Option 2: Saturday Main Stage Performances
The Prime Day of the Makin’ It Compound
Saturday is the biggest day of the week — featuring the largest crowd, the most media coverage, and the highest concentration of DJs, managers, and industry tastemakers.
- Maximum audience attendance
- Highest industry presence
- Most media and content opportunities
- Eligible for the BET Weekend Performance Bonus
🎯 Saturday Bonus: Win a Performance During BET Awards Weekend
The top Saturday performance will earn:
- Free performance during BET Awards Weekend in Los Angeles
- Major industry exposure
- Paid travel
Eligible performances include: Meet the DJs, Big Energy Soundstage, and Twerkfest (Saturday only).
Winners are selected based on stage presence, crowd response, and overall draw — judged by Makin’ It staff and industry tastemakers.
No additional fee required. All Saturday performers are automatically eligible.
Saturday Performance Levels
Choose your positioning on the biggest day of the Compound.
Opening Act (3 minutes / 1 song)
Early Bird:
$250 if paid in full today
$375 if paid by March 7
$500 standard rate after March 7
Best for artists who want exposure, content, and industry presence.
Featured Act (6 minutes / 2 songs)
Early Bird:
$500 if paid in full today
$750 if paid by March 7
$1,000 standard rate after March 7
Ideal for artists who want more stage time and stronger positioning during the event. Limited slots available.
Headline Act (10 minutes / 3 songs)
Early Bird:
$1,000 if paid in full today
$1,500 if paid by March 7
$2,000 standard rate after March 7
Maximum visibility and positioning during SXSW week. Extremely limited.
Included With All Saturday Performances
Every Saturday performance reservation includes the visibility and promo support below.
- Confirmed performance set on Saturday
- Personal promo flyer to help you promote your set
- Instagram Collab Post with @MakinItMag
- Spotify playlist placement during SXSW week
- Media coverage consideration (photo/video + recap opportunities)
- VIP Tastemaker Brunch ticket(s) (quantity based on your performance level)
Placement Priority: Artists who lock in early receive priority consideration for better performance times and stage placement.
Reserve Your Performance Slot
Performance slots are limited and reserved on a first-come basis.
A minimum $100 deposit is required to secure your slot.
- Early bird pricing is locked in once your deposit is received.
- Balance must be paid in full today to receive early pricing.
- Performance times and stage placements are finalized the week of the event.
Lock in early for better pricing and better placement.
Promote Your Record for Just $50
Can’t make it to Austin or performing isn’t in the budget? You can still make a major impact during SXSW.
Get your music distributed to 200+ DJs, managers, media, and industry professionals in attendance.
Limited slots available. Click here to submit your music.
Scheduling & Placement
- Performance times and stage placements are finalized the week of the event.
- Artists who lock in early receive priority consideration for preferred time slots and stage positioning.
- Final scheduling is based on pay-off order, programming flow, and event logistics.
- All confirmed performers will receive an official schedule prior to the event.
Important Notes
- Guaranteed performance slots are limited.
- Slots are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
- This is an independent event held in Austin during SXSW week.
- Deposits are applied toward your total balance.
Reserve Performance Below
Can’t Make It to Austin?
You can still get your record in front of the DJs, managers, and media attending the Compound.
USB Drive Distribution – $50
Get your music distributed directly to 200+ DJs, managers, media, and industry professionals in attendance during SXSW week.
Limited slots available.