Passion Pit, Ginuwine, and several other acts are set to take the stage at SXSW as part of a concert series organized by Artist for Action and Sandy Hook Promise. The organizations that aim to address the ongoing issue of gun violence is partnered through a coalition of musicians that includes Billie Eilish, Peter Gabriel, and Sheryl Crow.

The Take Action x SXSW event series is scheduled for March 10 and 11, taking place at Mohawk and Empire Control Room & Garage.

Performances will run from 7 PM to 2 AM on March 10, and from 11:30 AM to 2 AM the following day. The series will incorporate live music, interactive art installations, and a music and social impact summit featuring panels and community engagement, alongside complimentary brunch and happy hour.

Mark Barden, co-founder of Sandy Hook Promise and Artist for Action, has emphasized the importance of advocating for safer communities following the tragic loss of his son, Daniel, in the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting. His efforts have led to the establishment of Artist for Action in 2023, rallying support from well-known artists to combat gun violence.

On the event, he stated:

“Music has the power to bring people together and inspire action. All across this country, youth and adults are bringing violence prevention education and advocacy into their schools, homes, and communities. These actions have been saving lives and driving true culture change, creating a safer future for everyone. We are so grateful to the artists and panelists that will be joining us at Take Action x SXSW and helping us to spread the message that violence is preventable, and amazing things are possible when we all come together.”

Michael Angelakos from Passion Pit commented:

“My grandmother, who remains my greatest inspiration, once said: ‘Our main purpose in life is not to make money, or to have a good time, or to earn fame in society; our purpose is to serve others —to be of assistance to those who need help.’ I live my life by her words, echoed by my great-grandmother before her and my mother after her, along with my clinicians and closest guides: we were put on this earth to help others. It is truly an honor to be called upon to join Artist for Action and Sandy Hook Promise for Take Action x SXSW.”

Ginuwine talked about his mission-based approach to life:

“Our main purpose in life is not to make money, or to have a good time... our purpose is to serve others.”

And finally, James Minor, VP of Music Festival for SXSW added:

“Artist for Artist understands how to execute a successful event from all angles and always deliver. For me, a production stands out when you can feel the passion that’s driving it behind the scenes. With Artist for Artist, this is always the case.”