Inside SXSW Winner “STAGES” | Ryan Booth, Leslie Grace & David Ramirez on Music, Uncertainty & Finding Your Voice

What does it really mean to keep going when no one is watching?In this exclusive interview from the SXSW Film Festival, I sit down with STAGES director Ryan Booth alongside stars Leslie Grace and David Ramirez to talk about their award-winning film, which took home the Best of Texas Award.Unlike traditional music films that focus on fame and success, STAGES explores the uncertainty of the journey—following a singer-songwriter navigating life, identity, and relevance on his first solo tour.We dive into:The emotional final performance scene that left audiences stunnedWhy the film embraces uncertainty over inevitabilityRecording all music live on set for authenticityThe personal connection each artist has to the storyHow STAGES became a love letter to places like Austin and NashvilleThis is more than a film conversation—it’s about what it takes to keep creating when success isn’t guaranteed.Topics Covered:The reality of building a career in musicCapturing raw emotion on cameraThe power of performing without validationBehind-the-scenes of the film’s most powerful momentFull-circle SXSW premiere experienceGuests:Ryan Booth (Director)Leslie Grace (Jessie Ramos)David Ramirez (Ben Garza)