VisitTulsa: Leon Russell to help promote Tulsa at SXSW

Tulsa music is heading down to Austin this weekend for the annual SXSW (South by Southwest) event.

Abby Kurin with The Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts & Culture made an announcement Tuesday morning that VisitTulsa will host their own SXSW party in Austin when the festival kicks off March 11th.

Nine Tulsa-based bands will play at the concert, including Oklahoman Leon Russell. A statement said officials regard Russell as a major marketing opportunity for the music and entertainment industry in Tulsa. Officials say Russell will help expose T-town to a global market, and allow the city's growing entertainment scene to shine in the spotlight.

SXSW an annual set of film, interactive media and music festivals in Austin, Texas. This year's event kicks off March 11.