Khalid and Billie Eilish Performing New Albums, UberEats x McDonalds | SXSW 2019

SXSW is not just the place for new music, but also for brands to insert themselves in to popular culture and build connections with the biggest rising stars, in front of the young adult crowds.  

UberEats and McDonalds – two companies which aren’t traditionally associated with new music – made heavy appearances at this year’s SXSW, with an entire house at Austin’s LVR venue to showcase none other than Khalid and Billie Eilish.

Khalid performed largely songs from his 2017 debut ‘American Teen,’ allowing for a set where the audience could sing along throughout, though a few from his upcoming album ‘Free Spirit’ due for release at the start of April did feature. Similarly, Billie Eilish has upcoming debut album “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” coming out this week itself. So whilst they may not fall in to the traditional ‘grassroots’ standards that SXSW focuses on, the two teenagers are still are very much at the start of their careers and used the SXSW platform to perform to audience formed of fans from across the world, probably one of the last times in a small venue at this sort of event.  

Khalid also performed his Halsey and Benny Blanco collaboration ‘Eastside’ on his own, making for a very special version of the song.  

With that mega line up, it was no surprise it became the most coveted entrance and with longest queues. Further inside were free McDonalds for dinner, and surprisingly long queues for UberEats merch.

So not only did the crowds get the very rare chance to see these future pop icons in a small venue, but also went home with an Uber tshirt and tote bag…why not!