Reality Club Withdraws from Prestigious SXSW 2024 Music Festival as a Form of Support for Palestine

Kapanlagi.com - Written by: Nadia Sabilla Ramadhani

Providing full support for Palestine in the face of the genocide happening in Gaza, Jakarta-based band Reality Club has shown their support by withdrawing from the annual South by Southwest (SXSW) 2024 festival in Austin, Texas, United States. Reality Club was scheduled to perform at the event, titled FRIENDS:FOREVER, on March 14-15.

This year, Reality Club had the opportunity to showcase their talent at the largest music event in Asia, along with other indie music legends. Indonesian musicians who have previously performed at this grand event include Efek Rumah Kaca, White Shoes & The Couples Company, The SIGIT, Yacko, Shaggydog, and Tuan Tigabelas.

Reality Club posted an official statement on their personal Instagram account on Thursday, March 14. Let's find out more about this band's statement!

1. Official Statement from Reality Club at SXSW Festival

Official Instagram Post from Reality Club Account (credit: instagram.com/realityclub)

To perform at SXSW has been a long-time dream for Reality Club. They claimed to have received an invitation in 2020, but the event was canceled due to COVID. And in 2024, they were invited again to the event and have scheduled several music tours around the festival area.

"In light of new information for us regarding the US Army being the main sponsor of SXSW and the participation of defense contractors who produce and supply weapons used against Palestinian civilians, we have decided to withdraw from SXSW," stated the announcement of their resignation. They discovered the fact that the US Army and some weapon manufacturers are involved in the SXSW event. Reality Club does not want to be associated with organizations involved in the genocide in Gaza, Palestine.

2. Continuing to Hold Music Tours in North America

Reality Club (credit: instagram.com/realityclub)

Although Reality Club withdrew from the prestigious event, they are still holding concert tours in 3 cities in North America. The remaining cities where Reality Club will hold concerts are Chicago (March 18), Toronto (March 20), and Brooklyn (March 22).

"As for our North American tour, we have 3 remaining cities, and we will give our best as usual. Thank you for your support and understanding regarding this matter," stated clearly in the official statement by Reality Club.

(kpl/nyx)