Artist Chase Bader, of the band Waker, just gave us a shout and explained they have been booked at 2018 SXSW. We are very excited for the audience and the band alike, a real treat is in store for attendees. These guys are fantastic. Bader had this to say regarding the upcoming festival:
Q. Is this your first time playing SXSW?
A. This is Waker's first time at SXSW! When we were called Koa, we went once before.
Q. What's the process like getting booked into this festival? How excited are you guys?
A. The process is really exciting because of all of the unbelievable showcases and panels that take place during the same week. I think you really realize how small the music world is when you go to SXSW because everyone is in one tiny, people-packed area and it is so wild, but so worth the time.
Q. Do you know what you guys are going to perform or is that going to be kept a secret? How do you go about putting together the set list for a gig like this?
A. We play short sets at our showcases, but the best part is how many different types of people we will play for. So the strategy is to play our strongest material that will catch the attention of someone who would be into what we do. We will play some new material and some songs you can find on Spotify (FOLLOW US yo!!). Overall, SXSW is such a great opportunity to find people who are looking specifically for new music & new experiences.
About Chase Bader | Waker
My name is Chase Bader and I am originally from Birmingham, AL. In 2012 I founded the Nashville based rock/soul band Waker (formerly known as Koa) with several friends. Since then we have played huge festivals, including: Hangout, ACL, Firefly, SXSW, Wakarusa, and more, shared the stage with artists like JJ Grey & Mofro, Moon Taxi, and The Wailers, and begun developing a loyal following of fans across the US. Throughout this journey my Breedlove OM/MME Passport has been a vital part of our success. This model has not only defined my sound as an acoustic player, but has also helped define our sound as a band. I love the versatility I can achieve through playing a Breedlove guitar. There is such a delicate characteristic one can achieve in the softer songs while never lacking in drive and bite when needed for more upbeat, percussive tunes. No matter where I go, I know my Breedlove will be right there with me.
About SXSW
South by Southwest is an annual conglomerate of film, interactive media, and music festivals and conferences that take place in mid-March in Austin, Texas, United States. It began in 1987, and has continued to grow in both scope and size every year. Learn more.