Nick Barbaro: The Man Behind South by Southwest and the Austin Chronicle

Mbcoats, NickBarbaro 05APR2025, CC BY 4.0

You know Nick Barbaro as a significant figure in Austin’s cultural scene, growing up as the son of notable parents and honing his passion for cinema. He moved to Austin in the 1970s, became a film critic, and eventually served as publisher of the Austin Chronicle for over 40 years.

He played an essential role in co-founding South by Southwest, helping transform it into a global event. There’s more to this story that continues to shape Austin’s lively identity.

Early Life and Background

Although Nick Barbaro’s later accomplishments became widely known, his roots are equally fascinating. You might not know he’s the son of Marilyn Buferd, Miss America 1946, and Francesco Barbaro, an Italian naval officer.

Growing up in Los Angeles and Dallas, Nick eventually made his way to Austin in the mid-1970s—a move that would shape his legacy as a cultural leader.

While in Austin, he began writing film criticism for The Daily Texan, but his biggest influence came through publishing. His involvement with the Austin community was key to the growth of both South by Southwest and the Austin Chronicle, cementing his impact on the city’s artistic landscape.

Educational Journey

Nick Barbaro’s educational journey laid the groundwork for his achievements in media and the arts.

He began his studies at UCLA, where he first explored his passion for film. Eager for deeper immersion, he moved to Austin in the 1970s to attend the University of Texas at Austin.

There, he enrolled in the Radio-Television-Film program, which gave him valuable experience in journalism and media studies.

While at UT, Barbaro developed his voice as a film critic for The Daily Texan, sharpening his skills in writing and cultural analysis. This academic foundation helped direct his future roles with the Austin Chronicle and South by Southwest.

Career Beginnings

At the start of his career, Barbaro merged his love of film and writing by contributing to The Daily Texan during graduate school at UT Austin.

Before settling in Austin, his passion for cinema had already been nurtured at UCLA. His talent for storytelling and media critique helped shape his future ventures.

He wasn’t just a writer—he was a builder. As publisher of The Austin Chronicle, he championed independent journalism for over four decades.

His dual roles in publishing and as co-founder of South by Southwest highlight his dedication to expanding cultural horizons and supporting local creatives.

The Austin Chronicle Legacy

Barbaro’s long-standing leadership at The Austin Chronicle left a lasting imprint on Austin’s media culture.

As publisher for over 40 years, he helped grow the Chronicle into a vital source of independent news, covering politics, music, art, and local affairs.

Upon his retirement, the publication’s leadership transitioned to Cassidy Frazier, a longtime staff member with over 25 years at the Chronicle.

Here’s how Barbaro helped build a media legacy:

• Independent Journalism: Prioritized community-centered reporting.
• Community Support: Transitioned the Chronicle to a nonprofit model.
• Continuity in Leadership: Frazier ensures the Chronicle’s mission endures.

No discussion of Austin’s media landscape is complete without recognizing Barbaro’s contributions.

Impact on South by Southwest

While SXSW is now a global brand, much of its identity stems from Nick Barbaro’s vision and foundational role in its creation.

Alongside Louis Black and Roland Swenson, Barbaro co-founded South by Southwest in 1987, leveraging the Austin Chronicle’s influence to promote the new festival.

He helped SXSW evolve from a local music gathering into an international convergence of music, film, and interactive media.

Although events outside Austin like SXSW Sydney came much later under different leadership, Barbaro’s foundational guidance kept the festival aligned with creative independence and community values.

Despite industry changes, his voice has helped preserve SXSW’s inclusive, exploratory character.

Continuing Influence in Austin’s Cultural Scene

Nick Barbaro’s presence continues to echo throughout Austin’s artistic and civic life.

His time at the Austin Chronicle shaped independent media in the city. Even in retirement, Barbaro remains active as president of the Chronicle’s board, supporting new leadership under Cassidy Frazier.

• Advocacy: Championed artists, writers, and musicians in Austin.
• Leadership Transition: Still involved in a guiding capacity.
• Nonprofit Commitment: Strengthened donor-supported journalism.

His influence is evident throughout the music and film communities, in venues like ACL Live and underground spots like the Elephant Room, which continue to thrive thanks to the ecosystem he helped nurture.