In addition to new-artist discovery, which is the most important element to behold at SXSW, the festival has another tradition that’s emerged over the past five years or so: surprise collaborations, often of the unlikely variety. 2013’s least expected and most oddly rewarding was the reunited alt-rock band Afghan Whigs joined by Usher at Fader Fort.
The full story behind the impromptu team-up may never be told, but Usher himself put it best: “SXSW is all about having a good time,” he declared onstage, likely referring to the loosely-knit yet inspired jams to come from the one-off lineup. Collaborative takes included Usher’s 2012 hit “Climax,” Afghan Whigs’ “Somethin’ Hot,” “Runnin” by and featuring Sinkane, and another Usher tune, “OMG.”
Footage of the full event was caught by a few pro photographers. While Usher doesn’t join until a quarter into the set, at about 15:45, but the whole show is well-worth a watch after jumping around for highlights. Check it out above along with a backstage photo from the band’s Facebook below.
