BMI, UMG, Sony, WMG, ICM Join Growing List Of SXSW Cancellations

BMI has officially canceled its presence at SXSW, the performing rights said in a statement, joining a growing list of companies pulling out over coronavirus concerns.

“Out of an abundance of caution, BMI has decided to cancel its planned events at this year’s SXSW Festival,” the PRO said on Friday. “The health and safety of our team members and our songwriters is of paramount importance, and we regret any inconvenience this may cause.”

UMG, Sony and WMG’s exit from SXSW did not come in a press release, but rather in similar memos to all staffers advising them not to attend. The advisory allows for exceptions but, as one company source told Variety it, “no one has asked for one yet.”

Major agency ICM Partners has canceled its Austin plans, Deadline confirmed.

Earlier in the week rival agency CAA banned virtually all travel by its employees for at least two weeks. CAA agents have also been asked to hold virtual meetings instead of bringing clients to its offices.

Other major companies canceling include Apple, Netflix, Amazon, Facebook, Vevo, Intel, TikTok and Twitter