Last month, Pit Crew Media got the chance to sit down with rising star Stephen Sanchez at a press conference to discuss his sophomore album, “Angel Face” as well as the crooner’s fondness of the 1950s and 60s, and what he’d talk about if he ever had his own podcast. The conversation offered an intimate look into the 21-year-old singer-songwriter’s artistic process and influences as he spoke candidly about his approach to songwriting, storytelling, and the personal philosophies that have led him to this point.

Sanchez, who many may recognize from his 2021 hit, “Until I Found You”, has captivated millions with his velvety baritone and nostalgic take on classic pop crooners, culminating in his latest release, “Angel Face (Club Deluxe)” this past April. “Angel Face” tells the story of ‘Troubadour Sanchez’, a fictional musician from 1958, who finds himself entangled in forbidden love and a secret romance, which (spoiler alert) ultimately leads to his untimely demise. A true concept album, “Angel Face” brings a nostalgic 1950s/60s sound into contemporary media and allows Sanchez’ inspiration from artists like Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison and The Everly Brothers to shine. 

But for Stephen, Troubadour is more than just an idea to base the album on. With unlimited potential, the character presents a unique dramatization of elements of Sanchez’ own life, giving him the freedom to live and perform boldly, while dampening the inherent vulnerability of being in the spotlight. As Stephen told us, performing as Troubadour allows him to continue performing and emoting at a level that wouldn’t be sustainable for the average person after the inciting emotion passes - and the fans are here for it! The singer made note of how receptive fans have been to this choice to step out of the box and that they’ve become attached not only to him as a performer, but to Troubadour as a character. 

Unlike many artists touring today, Sanchez is a true performer, weaving intentional storytelling into every aspect of his performance. Where his last tour told Troubadour’s story from the perspective of he and his bandmates as ghosts, his current tour, “Stephen Sanchez & The Moon Crests: Live From the Connie Co Show” takes audiences back in time, predating the Angel Club shows. When seeing Stephen on tour, he says fans can expect to see a show as if you’re back in the 50s watching Troubadour perform live. With this in mind, Stephen recounted how he feels like he is carving out a unique space for himself in the music industry, and we have to agree. In an era where it can be easy to fall into pop melodies or this week’s trending hits, Sanchez’ vintage sound and vibrant public persona set him apart from many artists touring today.