Hanson at SXSW 2017: They’ve Been There Before
There was something nostalgic about Hanson’s appearances at SXSW this past weekend and it was all to do with busking and softball games.
That isn’t entirely true. Hanson have made many appearances at SXSW over the years but this year marked 23 years since they sang at a softball game and attracted the attention of Christopher Sabec, a music attorney who became their manager. This spark lit the fire that became world-wide fame in 1997 and a long career in creative, independently minded music-making.
At SXSW this year, Hanson headlined the Tulsa showcase, paid tribute to Leon Russell and performed at Southwest Invasion. They played music covering the span of their career and they played a new song “I Was Born” for the first time to a live audience.
They also revisited the field where they had entertained music label executives with their a cappella sounds in 94.
Hanson talked about their upcoming Middle Of Everywhere tour, explaining that it is a celebration of their career and opportunity to thank the fans who have supported them over time.
Taylor Hanson in an interview with Yahoo Music, described the tour as a ” ramp into the next chapter”.
The Hanson story is one of chapters, with developments in musical style and creative vision. If the next chapter is as exciting as the rest, music lovers have a lot to look forward to.
Media interest was keen at SXSW so we have collected a few of our favourite moments from interviews and performances. Enjoy.
Photo from SXSW credit and thanks to Ellen.