The Country Music Fan's Guide to SXSW 2018

[dropcap]I[/dropcap]t's that time of year again when thousands of people descend upon Austin, Texas to eat, drink, endure traffic and see as much live music as possible. That's right, it's SXSW. And between official artist showcases and shows at some of Austin's most famous clubs, country music is well represented this year. It may seem a little overwhelming to decide on which shows you can make time to see, but don't worry. From Americana stars to hardcore country favorites, we put together a list of artist showcases to check out while you're in town. Check out the Country Fan's Guide to SXSW 2018 below.

Videos by Wide Open Country

Sarah Shook and the Disarmers

North Carolina country-rockers Sarah Shook and the Disarmers were one of the breakout acts of 2017. Rough, rowdy and country as hell, the band will release their sophomore album Years on April 6.

Where and when they're playing: 

Wednesday, March 14, 12 AM at the Continental Club

Tyler Childers

Tyler Childers floored the country world with his stellar 2017 album Purgatory, a Southern masterpiece steeped in Appalachian tradition. If you want a dose of one of the best country artists in the game, Childers is a must-see.

Where and when he's playing:

Wednesday, March 14, 12:45 AM, Palm Door on Sixth

Nikki Lane

Outlaw country queen Nikki Lane won over audiences with no-holds-barred honky tonk on her 2017 record Highway Queen. The tireless troubadour should be at the top of your list of artists to see at this year's SXSW.

Where and when she's playing:

Tuesday, March 13, 10:30 PM, The Gatsby

Friday, March 16, 3 PM, Radio Day Stage at the Austin Convention Center

Jason James

If you're a fan of hardcore country, look no further than Jason James. The Texas native delivers barroom-ready country music that would make The Possum proud.

Where and when he's playing:

Friday, March 16, 8 PM, Saxon Pub

Red Shahan

Lubbock-based singer Red Shahan is gearing up to release his sophomore album Culberson County later this month. Fans of Texas storytellers like Guy Clark and Steve Earle should make it a point to check out Shahan.

Where and when he's playing:

Wednesday, March 14, 8 PM, Palm Door on Sixth

Vandoliers

Texas alt-country rockers Vandoliers turned heads with their 2017 album The Native. Mixing a punk rock ethos with a country spirit, Vandoliers will deliver one of the most spirited, high-energy shows you'll see during SXSW. For fans of Old 97s, Ryan Adams and Son Volt.

Where and when they're playing:

Saturday, March 17, 10 PM, Saxon Pub

Joshua Hedley

A Music City favorite signed to Jack White's Third Man Records, Joshua Hedley will release one of the year's most highly anticipated debut records this spring. With a smooth baritone and songs that sound like classic country gold, Joshua Hedley is one you shouldn't miss this year.

Where and when he's playing:

Wednesday, March 14, 8 PM, Antone's

Thursday, March 15, 12 AM, Continental Club

The Texas Gentlemen

After making their name as one of the hottest and most in-demand backing bands around, the Texas Gentlemen stepped into the spotlight with their 2017 debut album TX Jelly, an irresistible mix of swampy country funk and southern rock.

Where and when they're playing:

Friday, March 16, 1 AM, Antone's

Kathryn Legendre

A staple of the Austin music scene, Kathryn Legendre sings the kind of soul-baring songs that made you fall in love with country music in the first place. Check out her 2016 EP Don't Give a Damn and then make a note to see her at SXSW.

When and where she's playing:

Saturday, March 17, 12 AM, Cooper's BBQ

Whitney Rose

Whitney Rose expertly blends country with vintage pop to make her own brand of countrypolitan goodness. Rose's album Rule 62 made Wide Open Country's list of the 25 Best Albums of 2017.

When and where she's playing:

Saturday, March 17, 10 PM, Lucille Patio Lounge

Now Watch: Kathryn Legendre Performs "Build My Home"