Apply for a Guaranteed Performance Opportunity. Serious Artists Only!
The Makin’ It Compound is the biggest independent event on 6th Street during SXSW, bringing together artists, DJs, media, managers, and industry tastemakers for a full day and night of performances, networking, interviews, and content creation.
For over a decade, the Makin’ It Compound has been one of the most in-demand events to perform at —a place where artists don’t just perform, they get seen.
The Stage Everyone Wants to Perform On!
Each year, the Compound attracts 1,000+ attendees, including 200+ DJs, managers, media outlets, and industry professionals actively looking for new talent.
Artists who have performed at the Makin’ It Compound have gone on to:
- 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 a curated performance opportunity in a room filled with people who can actually move careers forward.
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.
Who Should Apply
This is a curated opportunity for top emerging talent only. Performance slots are limited and require approval.
A $25 non-refundable application fee is required to apply and will be credited when approved.
If you are not confident that you will be approved, do not apply.
Performance Options
All performance opportunities are limited.
Standard Performance
- 1 Song Performance (3-minute set)
- Personal promo flyer
Regular Price: $375
Early Bird Price: $250
Best for artists who want exposure, content, and industry presence.
Premium Performance
- 2 Song Performance (6-minute set)
- Personal promo flyer
Regular Price: $750
Early Bird Price: $500
Best for artists who want more stage time and stronger positioning during the event.
Headliner Performance (Extremely Limited)
- 3 Song Headliner Set (10-minute set)
- Personal promo flyer
- Full Promo Package included
Regular Price: $2,250
Early Bird Price: $1,500
Best for artists seeking maximum visibility, credibility, and momentum during the week.
Optional Promotional Upgrades
Available for Standard & Premium slots only.
Pre-Event Promo Upgrade – $125
Includes:
- Instagram Collab Post from @MakinIt4Indies (20,000+ followers)
- Feature in the Makin’ It email blast (34,000 digital subscribers)
- Spotify playlist placement
Designed to build momentum and visibility before SXSW.
Post-Event Promo Upgrade – $125
Includes:
- Post-event interview
- Placement in the Makin’ It Magazine recap issue
- Highlight in official event recap coverage
Designed to extend your exposure after the event with lasting content.
Note: Headliner performance slots include both promo upgrades at no additional cost.
How the Application Process Works
- Apply to Perform: Submit your music and information for review.
- Application Fee: A $25 non-refundable application fee is required to apply. If approved, the fee is credited toward your performance slot payment.
- Approval & Deposit: Approved artists must submit a minimum 50% non-refundable deposit immediately to reserve their performance slot.
- Early Bird Deadline: The remaining balance must be paid in full by January 15 to keep Early Bird pricing.
NOTE: Affirm, Klarna, and Afterpay can be used to reserve your performance slot when approved.
Scheduling & Placement Priority
- Final performance times and stage placements are determined the week of the event.
- Artists who lock in early receive priority consideration for preferred performance times and placements.
- Final scheduling is based on pay-off order, programming flow, and event logistics.
Important Notes
- Submitting an application does not guarantee approval.
- Guaranteed performance slots are limited.
- Slots are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis once approved and deposit is received.
- This is an independent event held in Austin during SXSW and is not an official SXSW event.
Apply Now
If you’re serious about your music and want to perform at one of the most in-demand independent stages during SXSW week, apply below.