With around 300,000 attendees from all over the world, SXSW 2025 transformed Austin, Texas, into the thriving center of music innovation from March 7–15. Both music fans and business insiders flocked to the city for a week of innovative shows, socializing, and celebrating culture.
Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Rema wowed spectators with an outstanding performance at the Moody Theater as the main act of Rolling Stone's Future of Music event. Rema fervently declared, "Africa is the future of music because it's unique and knows no boundary," while performing tracks from his critically acclaimed sophomore album, Heis, which skillfully combined spectacular visuals and cultural storytelling. With songs like "Calm Down," "Soundgasm," and the upbeat "Ozeba,"
Rapper Anycia from Atlanta brought undeniable enthusiasm to the stage before Rema's performance, showcasing songs from her mixtape, Princess Pop That, with assurance. The audience was delightfully warmed by her outspoken demeanor and interactions with them ("You so pretty, talk about a face, baby!").
Samara Cyn, a Tennessee native and LA resident, enthralled the audience with her intensely intimate performance, which included selections from her introspective 2024 album, The Drive Home. Speaking openly about her love for Lauryn Hill, Cyn called a recent performance with the legend "top-tier" and attribute her own emotional storytelling style to Hill's MTV Unplugged performance.
MC AJ McQueen, who was born in St. Louis, added depth to his lyrics and grabbed attention with strong songs from his album Sorry Ma, I Was Distracted. The audience was reminded by McQueen's show, which mirrored his rough beginnings and personal victories, why he has received recognition for his genuine storytelling.
Not just another festival event, the Rolling Stone Future of Music showcase at SXSW 2025 represented a progressive musical progression, honoring the inventiveness and varied narratives of today's up-and-coming international performers.
HypeCityShow extends a huge thank you to Rolling Stone for the incredible opportunity to be part of SXSW 2025’s Future of Music showcase! Being in the building to witness groundbreaking performances from Rema, Anycia, Samara Cyn, AJ McQueen, and more was truly an unforgettable experience.
Rolling Stone continues to set the standard for music journalism, and we’re honored to have been present at such a historic event. Looking forward to more collaborations and continuing to highlight the culture together!HypeCityShow extends a huge thank you to Rolling Stone for the incredible opportunity to be part of SXSW 2025’s Future of Music showcase! Being in the building to witness groundbreaking performances from Rema, Anycia, Samara Cyn, AJ McQueen, and more was truly an unforgettable experience.
Rolling Stone continues to set the standard for music journalism, and we’re honored to have been present at such a historic event. Looking forward to more collaborations and continuing to highlight the culture together!
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