Editor's note: SXSW is a launching pad for so many artists' careers. To celebrate its legacy, CultureMap presents 30 Days, 30 Artists, a special series running now through the festival. These SXSW spotlights will shed light on the up-and-comers and music names you should know from around Texas, the country and the world. Join us in learning about these showcasing musicians, who will play SXSW from March 11 - 16, 2014.

Name: A.J. Croce

Featured track: "Rollin' On" from Twelve Tales

City of origin: San Diego, CA

Genre: Singer-songwriter

In one sentence: "With his music, he represents his generation with a profound sense of honesty in his lyrics and quality in his delivery." - Willie Nelson

Why we chose him: The son of songwriting legend Jim Croce, A.J.'s style is influenced by his father, but representative of the next-generation songwriter. "Rollin' On," from the just-released 2014 album Twelve Tales, was co-written with piano master Leon Russell. Fueled by rock 'n' roll keys and roots, it's a feel-good tune reminiscent of rock's glory days.

SXSW official showcase: 9:30 pm onSaturday, March 15 at St. David's Bethell Hall