South By Southwest, perhaps the most important music showcase on the planet, has announced a number of guest speakers and special events for 2008. Velvet Underground, punk pioneer and acclaimed solo artist Lou Reed has been confirmed as the keynote speaker for 2008’s showcase. Reed’s appearance is in conjunction with the premiere of Julian Schnabel’s film “Lou Reed’s Berlin”, which documents a performance of the legendary solo album.
In addition to Lou Reed, SXSW will also have a special appearance by Daryl Hall – one of the most successful songwriters in American pop history. Hall will be joined by one of music’s most mythical impressarios in the form of Seymour Stein – president of Sire Records and talent spotter extraordinaire.
In addition to these luminaries, SXSW will present interviews and talks by such figures as Steve Reich, Thurston Moore and Ticketmaster CEO Sean Moriarty.
The South By Southwest Music and Media Conference takes place in Austin, Texas between March 12th – 16th.
