If there’s one thing to learn at South By Southwest, it’s how important it is to roll with the punches. When an intense lightning storm shut down all of the festival’s outdoor venues on Thursday night (March 16), SPIN moved things indoors, salvaging a chaotic night with headliner Killer Mike performing an unforgettable set to a packed crowd.
And when a cold front rolled in the next morning, SPIN kept that same spirit going with its Recovery Pool Party at Austin Motel, hosted with sponsors Freevee, Monster Tour Water, InnerSleeve, Guayaki Yerba Mate, and Remedy. Despite the chillier-than-expected weather, guests were eager for the chance to lounge by the pool and unwind after a week of parties and showcases.
Oakland, Ca.-based artist Ry Toast is both a yoga teacher and a DJ, so it’s no surprise she was able to curate the perfect restorative vibe with an eclectic mix of jams ranging from Janelle Monáe and Cardi B to Queen and Beyoncé.
With the Corndog Company catering, guests enjoyed corn dogs and fried Oreos (when in Texas, right?) as they lounged in the courtyard. Partygoers were also treated to Monster Tour Water, an assortment of Guayakí Yerba Mate, and drinks at the motel’s colorful pool bar. Guests soaked up the sun, danced to the music and relaxed by the pool, with some even braving the waters by dipping their feet in as the afternoon warmed up.
By far the biggest treat of the party, though, was free vinyl giveaways courtesy of Innersleeve. While everyone at the VIP event walked away with a SPIN towel and an Innersleeve t-shirt, a lucky few rushed up to the DJ booth for a chance to win a brand new vinyl from Mac Miller, Lana Del Rey, and others.
After a memorable week of shows, including sets from Blondshell, Urban Heat, and Robot Sunrise at SPIN‘s Wednesday night bash at the Pershing, the pool party was the perfect way to cap things off and recharge. By the end of the afternoon, there was only one thing left to do: jump in. One attendee finally embraced the spirit of the event, changed into swim trunks, and had the crowd count him down into a cannonball. This SXSW, SPIN certainly made a splash.
