What's Happening?
British pop singer Lola Young is set to headline the opening night of Rolling Stone's Future of Music showcase at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas. The event, scheduled for March
12, 2026, marks Young's return to the stage after a hiatus following her collapse at the All Things Go Festival in New York in September 2025. Young, known for her hit 'Messy,' which topped the UK Singles Chart and reached No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, had taken time off to recover. Her third studio album, 'I'm Only F**king Myself,' released in September 2025, achieved significant chart success. The Future of Music showcase will feature a diverse lineup of artists across various genres, including pop, hip-hop, and country, and will run through March 14 at ACL Live at the Moody Theater.
Why It's Important?
Lola Young's participation in the SXSW 2026 event is significant as it marks her comeback to live performances, potentially revitalizing her career after a challenging period. The Future of Music showcase, curated by Rolling Stone, is a platform for emerging artists and has historically been a launchpad for future stars. This event not only highlights Young's resilience but also underscores the importance of SXSW as a cultural and musical hub. The festival's ability to attract high-profile artists like Young and others reflects its continued influence in the music industry, despite logistical challenges such as the renovation of the Austin Convention Center.
What's Next?
The Future of Music showcase will be ticketed for the first time in 2026, with general sales starting on January 9. SXSW Platinum and Music badge holders, along with festival wristband holders, will have priority access. The event is expected to draw significant attention, with live reporting by Billboard throughout the festival. As SXSW continues to expand its global reach, the success of this showcase could influence future programming and artist lineups, further solidifying its status as a premier music festival.
