SXSW Day Six: A Dive into Quantum Tech and Global Rhythms

Day six at SXSW offered a compelling juxtaposition of cutting-edge innovation and time-honored tradition, blending a deep dive into the future of computing with the vibrant energy of the Radio Day Stage.

The morning kicked off with a highly anticipated fireside chat titled “Quantum Computing—The What, Why, and When.” Charina Chou, COO for Google Quantum AI, provided an accessible and engaging crash course on this often-misunderstood technology. Moving beyond the sci-fi hype, Chou discussed what quantum computing truly entails, its potential real-world applications, and its intersection with AI. Attendees learned how to assess genuine breakthroughs, explored encryption concerns, and even touched upon the philosophical implications of the multiverse, all presented in a straightforward, no-sales-pitch format. The session aimed to demystify quantum computing, offering a candid look at its transformative potential.

Meanwhile, a cornerstone of SXSW, the Radio Day Stage, hummed with global musical talent. This traditional venue showcased five diverse acts, treating audiences to a rich tapestry of sounds. Sonido Gallo Negro, hailing from Mexico, brought their psychedelic Peruvian cumbia. Susobrino, a Brussels-based artist born in Bolivia, fused Latin American rhythms with electronic music, creating unique acoustic and digital soundscapes. Volcán, an 11-member Indie Latin collective, celebrated Latinx culture with a pan-Latin fusion of cumbia, salsa, and rock. El Dusty, the Grammy-nominated “nu-cumbia pioneer” from Corpus Christi, blended traditional Latin sounds with hip-hop and reggae. Finally, Amantes Del Futuro rounded out the stage with his futuristic cumbia, known for its digital take on chicha and cosmic bass production, reflecting the new generation’s approach to musical culture.