'Jimmy Kimmel Live' seeks hottest musical act at SXSW

"Jimmy Kimmel Live" and technology platform WHOOZNXT announced today that Jimmy Kimmel will attend the 2011 SXSW music festival in search of the hottest musicians coming out of this year's festival. In partnership with SXSW and WHOOZNXT, the most "Buzzed"* about musical act will perform on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" on March 29.

Well known for showcasing many one-of-a-kind concert experiences and first-time late-night television performances by The Ting Tings, The Bravery, 50 Cent, Kanye West and Lady GaGa, "Jimmy Kimmel Live" brings its audience another way to experience music by showcasing the hottest SXSW musical act on the WHOOZNXT platform.

SXSW-registered musical acts can register for the casting call, without the need to perform, starting March 16 at WHOOZNXT.com, a new, audience-validated, technology platform that gives the power of success back to the musicians and their fans. This is the only platform that rewards online activity with real-world exposure. All SXSW musicians are eligible for the casting call and the opportunity to appear on "Jimmy Kimmel Live." The musical act selected to appear will be announced March 24.

"I am thrilled to be coming to Austin to find new bands and eat fried pickles," Kimmel said.

"Jimmy Kimmel shows a deep, sincere commitment to up-and-coming musicians, and boasts one of the most influential platforms for artists today," says WHOOZNXT CEO and founder Jeff Yapp. "Without question, we are honored that he will be able to work with us to help the world discover who is next."

Beyond SXSW, "Jimmy Kimmel Live" and WHOOZNXT are collaborating to showcase the hottest musician on the WHOOZNXT platform each month. The power is in the hands of the audience. Fans directly influence who is featured on "Jimmy Kimmel Live."

[*Buzz meter is measured by hits on Facebook, Twitter and WHOOZNXT.com. Musicians with the most activity will be considered the most "Buzzed" about artists]