California-raised artist Stephen Sanchez has captured the minds and hearts since late 2021 when his song "Until I Found You" rocketed Sanchez into fame, eventually securing him his first record deal. Generations are being brought together through his unique sound and persona, resembling the 1950s and '60s. For those of us that weren't lucky enough to be alive for Sinatra, and Elvis, there's no need to look far when we were blessed with Sanchez.
Australia's own The Paper Kites kicked off the night. The five-piece had the crowd entranced with their alternative/ folk style, which immediately feels reminiscent and warm. The band, which first came to light in 2009, have been lifelong friends; which obviously contributes to their welcoming and almost family-like stage presence.
Listening to The Paper Kites feels like folk music meets a fairytale. You can't help but create stories in your head of grassy meadows, warm sun, and childhood nostalgia with their comforting sound and laid-back aura.
The Paper Kites: Red Hat Amphitheater, Raleigh, NC, 10.15.2024, Captured by Ashley McKenzie
Following the incredible performance by The Paper Kites, The Troubadour himself, and his band deemed The Moon Crests, (Watson Maack, Jesse Houle, Brooks Gengenbach, and Anson Eggerss,) took the stage. This year's setlist, which heavily favors his most recent Album release, Angel Face also included songs from his prior EP releases: Easy On My Eyes and What Was, Not Now. The night was embellished with multiple covers, including "Put Your Head on My Shoulder" by Paul Anka, which Sanchez sings from points within the crowd. There is just something to say about his performance, and love for his craft, which is evident at this point in the show. He laughs, holds hands, and dances with fans of all ages. Stephen truly has a heart of gold and anyone can see that, in my opinion, this is one of the driving factors of why he will stand the test of time within the music industry.
It isn't anything new that Stephen draws one of the most diverse crowds I've ever seen. From Fathers dancing with their children, your Grandma and Grandpa reminiscing, and lovers embracing the music. They all have one thing in common: a love for music, and the specific community Sanchez has created.
The first time I had the chance to see Sanchez live was in February of 2023, his first tour included a stop at Columbus' Iconic Newport Music Hall, and on a chilly winter night, my friends and I made the trek to catch a glimpse of him. The Sold Out show, which filled the hearts of many, especially made a lasting impact on me. Sanchez performed in such a raw way that you couldn't help but feel connected to not only his music but him as well. Performances like these were the driving factor in me knowing I wanted to work in the music industry. I knew I was meant to showcase how music has impacted my life, as well as many others.
Having the chance to grow up alongside Sanchez has allowed me to see his growth not only vocally, but production-wise. This year's show isn't just about the music. A whole storyline has been created, with keen attention to detail on set design and clothing. Leaning into his "Troubadour" persona he created a segment called "The Connie Co. Show," hosted by Austin Cain (deemed "Connie" ) where he answers "fan mail." In today's segment, we learned Lord Huron and Bon Iver were some of Sanchez's biggest inspirations growing up. We were also blessed with a game called "Can he sing it? Austin ("Connie") and Stephen pulled from two separate bowls: one filled with songs, and the other filled with artist names. We ended up with "Take Me Home Country Roads" (John Denver) Which Stephen was tasked to deliver in the style of Kermit or Nat King Cole. Leaving it up to the crowd, we chose Kermit, although in Stephen's own words, "it sounded more like The BeeGees." This personal touch is just one clever way he stays in tune with the crowd, which is something coming from a fellow fan, that can make someone's entire year.
Alongside his chart-topping hits, Sanchez included two unreleased songs in Raleigh's setlist. "It's not over," which ended up being one of my personal favorites of the night, entails a story of the emotions of falling in and out of love, and doing everything in your power to stay with your significant other. Performed acoustically, this new tune instantly pulled at the heartstrings of fans. Switching gears, the group jumped into "Still Burning," which was just as upbeat it sounds. You couldn't help but move to the beat, although I don't think it's possible to dance as well as Sanchez.
Closing the night with one of his most upbeat songs leaves the crowd with a "High" they can't "Shake" for days. Fans Smiling ear-to-ear and many happy tears could be seen leaving Red Hat Amphitheater on that chilly October night. One thing will always be true, as sad as we are to see Sanchez go, we're just as exhilarated anticipating what The Troubadour will bring next time the wind blows him in.
Stephen Sanchez & The Moon Crests: Red Hat Amphitheater, Raleigh, NC, 10.15.2024, Captured by Ashley McKenzie
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