Memphis bands who intend to apply for the South by Southwest music conference can save a few bucks by visiting the Memphis Music Resource Center. The first 50 bands who visit the center between now and November 4 can get their registration fee waived by the Memphis Music Foundation. Bands can also express their interest in being part of an official Memphis music showcase planned for the March conference. Just visit the Memphis Music Resource Center, which is located at 431 South Main Street, Suite 201.

Recognized as the country’s biggest music conference, SXSW offers musicians an opportunity to be heard by record labels, publishers, media and booking agents. The Memphis Music Foundation, along with other Memphis organizations including the Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau and Music Memphis, will be leading a Memphis music delegation at SXSW 2009. The Memphis music presence will include an official Memphis Music Showcase, VIP Party and exhibition presence to promote the local music industry. The strategy is part of the Memphis Music Foundation’s Ambassador program, which takes Memphis talent on the road to significant entertainment industry events to advance Memphis music and position the city as an independent music center.