BY SARA
Alejandro Escovedo, the son of Mexican immigrants, was born on January 10, 1951, in San Antonio, Texas, and grew up in a family of 13 children, eight of whom became professional musicians. His musical journey is nothing short of remarkable, as he has overcome life-threatening challenges and carved out a unique niche in the music world. In 2003, after collapsing on stage and being hospitalized, Escovedo was diagnosed with Hepatitis C, a battle that nearly claimed his life. Fortunately, after undergoing an intensive treatment regimen, he made a full recovery.
Escovedo’s musical career spans several decades and genres. He first made a name for himself with the punk band The Nuns before moving on to roots rock with The True Believers and alt-country with Rank & File. Eventually, he launched a solo career that seamlessly blends rock ‘n’ roll, Americana, folk, and his deep connection to Spanish-language influences. Over the years, Escovedo has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including Ian Hunter, Bruce Springsteen, John Cale, and Peter Buck, further cementing his legacy in the industry.
Now residing outside Austin, Texas, with his wife Nancy and their two dogs, Escovedo spends much of the year touring and continues to draw a devoted fan base that eagerly follows him from show to show, hanging on to every note he plays.
At last night’s performance in Ottawa, Escovedo treated the audience to an hour-long set at the TD Main Stage, having been moved to an earlier time slot of 7:10 p.m. due to a scheduling change. Backed by his power trio—Scott Danbom on keyboards and Mark Henne on drums—Escovedo delivered a high-energy, albeit shortened, performance. Fans had hoped for a longer set, especially since Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit had to cancel their appearance due to illness. Despite this, Escovedo’s performance was powerful and left the audience craving more. Maren Morris, who also took over the TD Main Stage, closed the night with her own impressive set.
Though I didn’t stay for Maren Morris’s performance, I later heard it was a solid and well-received show. As the CityFolk festival wraps up for another year, I can’t help but feel a mix of nostalgia and melancholy, knowing the colder months are just around the corner. The outdoor festival season is always a highlight, and it will be another long nine months before we can enjoy live music under the open sky again. This year, like every year, has been filled with unforgettable performances and exciting new discoveries. A huge thank you to the festival organizers for consistently putting together such a spectacular event. Until next year, when we can once again revel in the magic of live music!
ALEJANDRO ESCOVEDO – SETLIST
John Conquest
Sacramento and Polk
Bury Me
Everybody Loves Me
Break This Time
Luna de Miel
Sensitive Boys (Ode to the band “Spoon” and his oldest brother who recently passed away)
Sally Was a Cop
San Antonio Rain
Castanets
Too Many Tears
