Marketing at SXSW

It has come to our attention that a company called Expo Guide is sending out misleading mailings. SXSW is in no way affiliated with Expo Guide, nor with Fair Guide, who engages in similar practices. Please read all incoming mailings asking for your data update in exhibitor listings/directories/fair or expo guides etc. very carefully, the small print in particular! Without realizing, you may be entering into an contract in which you agree to annual fees or other charges in exchange for a listing in the guide.

StopECG has published basic advice here:
www.stopecg.org/expo-guide.htm

We would like to welcome first time exhibitors in the Music Trade Show, Robertson Taylor Insurance Brokers. Representing one of the first companies to sign up for the upcoming '09 show, Mark Shore of Robertson Taylor is very eager to interact with the registrants, play some softball and have a great time at SXSW. Oh, and we are in total agreement regarding the treatment of french fries...

1. Tell us a bit about Robertson Taylor Insurance.

Robertson Taylor Insurance Brokers are a leader in the Entertainment Insurance industry. We insure many of the major touring bands in the world today.

2. What made you guys decide to exhibit at SXSW 09?

We thought that since we work with many clients in the music industry SXSW would be a great why to reach industry insiders who may need our expertise.

3. You are extremely excited about the SX Softball Tournament. Where does all this enthusiasm come from? A long history of softball playing perhaps?

I do play softball often as I am in a few leagues. I also umpire games for Los Angeles Municipal Sports. The SXSW Softball Tournament gives me (The weekend athlete) a chance to be on the field and compete for the title of champion. At 45 years old I only have a few games left in my body. LOL!!

4. Is there anyone in your office that gets picked on for their taste in music? If so, why?

I do some times. I like a lot of RAP and Hip Hop with some Sinatra mixed in.

5. I recently learned that there are many schools of thought regarding which condiments belong on a hamburger. Do you have an opinion on the subject?

Burgers need mustard, ketchup, lettuce, tomatoes and extra pickles are a must. By the way fries need a mustard and ketchup mix for dipping.

And we just live in it. Celebrating the creative and dynamic industries that come together at SXSW, SXSWorld Magazine covers what's happening in the Interactive, Film and Music worlds.

Filled with compelling stories, profiles and news, SXSWorld is also an ideal advertising vehicle by getting your brand out before, during and after the festival to the thousands of key influences who attend SXSW. The next issue is set to drop in early February - reserve your space today by contacting Katie King.

At the 2009 SXSW Film Festival, Maxell is returning to present the Emerging Visions Award winner with a generous cash prize of $2,500! Maxell will also provide an additional $2,500 to the filmmaker's charity organization of choice. Maxell is excited to sponsor this award again and looks forward to interacting with the filmmaker community directly. Last year, the winner of this award, Jeremiah Zagar for "In A Dream," was also featured in a Maxell print ad which ran in Filmmaker Magazine. Maxell is proud to show their on-going support for films and filmmakers through their participation at SXSW 2009. Join Maxell and hundreds of filmmakers at the SXSW 2009 Film Awards Tuesday, March 17th.

MusiCares has been involved with SXSW for many years now. They are a wonderful organization that we are proud to work with. If you are unfamiliar with their work, please read the interview with Shireen Janti and then be sure to visit them in the Music Trade Show!

1. What is MusiCares all about?

MusiCares provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need. MusiCares' services and resources cover a wide range of financial, medical and personal emergencies, and each case is treated
with integrity and confidentiality. MusiCares also focuses the resources and attention of the music industry on human service issues that directly impact the health and welfare of the music community.

2. The MusiCares Foundation has been represented at SXSW for many years now. What is your favorite memory from a past event?

We have had the privilege of attending SXSW for several years now. I must say that every year has been special with it's success and rewards. Last year was particularly wonderful, as a music manager happened to walk by our booth, inquired about our services and realized that we could help one of his band members who was struggling with substance abuse addiction. We were able to help his band member that very same day and place him in treatment. He got the help, education and support he needed to get his life back on track and live a sober life. This story is one of the miracles that makes MusiCares what it is.

3. Besides the exhibition, what are you most looking forward to while in Austin, TX for SXSW?

Attending our SHR (Safe Harbor Room) and listening to the wonderful, diverse music along with the fantastic food venues!

4. Who is your hands down, favorite music artist of all time?

That is a tough one, I love so many of them, I could not choose.

5. Sweet or savory? Which type of food do you often crave?

Both! Smile

To the Green Room that is. This "backstage" lounge of the Interactive Festival is where the hundreds of festival speakers go to prep their panel, enjoy complimentary beverages or just get away from it all. Sponsorship of the Green Room provides direct exposure to the industry leaders and taste-makers at SXSW. To learn how your company can take advantage of this unique opportunity or other premier marketing opportunities, please contact Katie King.

Every year, SXSW is lucky enough to have a network of Alternative News Weeklies from across the U.S. and Canada that help us in our grass roots approach to really connecting with those communities that our Co-Sponsors serve. With the help of over 40 regional alt weeklies, SXSW is able to stand by its commitment to regional, independent and emerging talent. So a big thanks is in order for our Co-Sponsors, who support SXSW in being the best stepping stone it can be for all of the brilliant indie talent out there waiting to be discovered. Find out more about these fine publications and which of them serve you and your area with news, culture, entertainment, local happenings and so much more.