Louis Black

I’m Louis Black—writer, editor, cultural agitator, and lifelong champion of the arts. I was born and raised in Teaneck, New Jersey, where I fell in love with comic books, movies, and the magic of storytelling. That early fascination shaped the course of my life. I moved to Austin in the 1970s to study film at the University of Texas, and I’ve been part of this city’s creative heartbeat ever since.

In 1981, I co-founded The Austin Chronicle with a vision to give voice to independent journalism, emerging artists, and the city’s rapidly evolving cultural scene. I served as editor for over three decades, during which time we built more than just a paper—we built a platform for free expression, community engagement, and relentless curiosity.

A few years later, in 1986, I joined forces with like-minded friends to launch South by Southwest (SXSW). What started as a modest gathering for music lovers quickly expanded into a global celebration of film, music, and technology. Helping nurture SXSW into one of the most influential creative festivals in the world has been one of the greatest adventures of my life.

Beyond those cornerstones, I’ve also been fortunate to help found the Austin Film Society, Austin Studios, and the Texas Film Hall of Fame—each one a testament to the power of community, storytelling, and grassroots innovation. I’ve spent my life connecting people, whether through a page, a screen, or a stage.

To me, success isn’t measured by fame or fortune—it’s measured by the stories we tell, the artists we elevate, and the communities we build. I’m just a kid from New Jersey who liked stories. And I got to tell a few of my own along the way.