SXSW UPDATE: HANSON SAYS HELLO, G-MAN SAYS GOODBYE

All-grown-up boy band Hanson will be making the rounds at South By Southwest next week. Tay, Isaac and Zac perform at a “Grammy Block Party” 3/16 at the Four Seasons from 5:30-9 pm. along with Texas Country vets the Randy Rogers Band. The MmmBoppers will also represent at the Tulsa Music Showcase later on 3/16 at Bungalow. Other Okies on the bill: Cassi Stephan and the Midnight Sun, Wink Burcham, RVRB and Broncho. Show begins at 7 pm. Hanson’s due on at 11:30.

As Hanson invades Austin, America’s top G-man is beating a hasty retreat. Due to speak 3/13 at the Hilton Austin Downtown, FBI Director James Comey has cancelled, citing "scheduling conflicts." It’s alleged he will be too busy investigating the mystery of his missing spine. He’ll be replaced by FBI General Counsel James Baker.

Speaking of political intrigue, following severe blowback from artists–including an open letter signed by more than 80 performers demanding that SXSW “cease collusion with immigration officials”–festival organizers announced today it will drop controversial immigration language from its performance agreement, starting in 2018. It clarified its policy in a statement issued by the festival. “In this political climate, especially as it relates to immigration, we recognize the heightened importance of standing together against injustice,” the statement read.