On the night of August 31st, 2024, American singer and songwriter Stephen Sanchez performed at the State Fair Grandstand. He is best known for his song “Until I Found You”, originally released on September 1, 2021, it peaked at No. 23 on Billboard Hot 100, No. 8 on Australian ARIA charts, and No. 14 on UK Singles chart. He has also received nominations for the Billboard music awards, MTV video music awards, as well as nominations for iHearRadio Music Awards and People’s choice awards for new artist of the year. With his Retro-pop style, baritone voice, and ability to hit and hold high notes, Sanchez evokes the sound of the 1950s and 1960s, reminiscent of famous artists like Roy Orbison and Patsy Cline. In addition to his vocal talent, he plays the guitar and piano.
Sanchez has four albums: “What Was, Not Now”, “Easy On My Eyes”, “Angel Face”, and most recently, “Angel Face (Club Deluxe)”. Each record tells a different love story. His latest album “Angel Face”, narrates the story of the Troubadour Sanchez and his love triangle. His secret love is a girl named Evangeline who is trying to escape her boyfriend, Hunter, and run away from L.A. with the Troubadour forever. Spoiler alert, Hunter kills the troubadour after discovering their romance. The concert setlist covered most of the “Angel Face” album, along with several other popular songs from different albums.
The concert was themed around “The Connie Co.” TV show, which Sanchez appeared on, featuring a host, vintage-style cameras, and a backdrop that connected to his 50s and 60s vibe. The show begins with an upbeat song “Only Girl”, getting everyone on their feet to dance and sing along. With vibrant lights, a fantastic band, and dance moves just like Elvis Presley, Sanchez rocked the night away. His charismatic charm, heartfelt lyrics, vintage sound that evokes nostalgia, makes him beloved by many. Among his setlist he covered two songs, “Oh, Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison, and “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” by Paul Anka.
While singing “Put Your Head On My Shoulder”, Sanchez disappeared from the stage, came down to the main floor (still singing) and walked through the aisles quickly meeting some lucky fans. To end this truly extraordinary night, Sanchez sings his most famous song “Until I Found You”, which had everyone singing their hearts out. Before exiting the stage, he quickly tossed his guitar to the host, grabbed the microphone again and performed his song “Shake”, a very upbeat and catchy song with a mix of pop and vintage rock, sounding similar to “Twist and Shout” by the Isley Brothers or “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by the Beatles.
The next time Stephen Sanchez comes to Minnesota I will definitely be there, and I encourage all of you to give his music a try. It may change your life like it has mine. His ability to connect with his audience and create such a memorable experience is truly special. Music has a unique power to unite us, and Sanchez’s songs are a perfect reminder of that.
