Raíces: Madrid, Spain
Sounds Like: A mix of Tom Petty, Enrique Urquijo, Neil Young, and Antonio Vega
You should listen to Quique González because… He’s finally getting the exposure he deserves.
Quique González is a late bloomer. The singer/songwriter, born in Madrid in 1973, pursued his passion in music after years of working odd jobs in Mallorca and London. He returned to Madrid years later and made his national television debut alongside Enrique Urquijo (who clearly influenced González’ own work) back in 1998.
He wrote and recorded a number of albums but remained in obscurity until the release of Ajuste De Cuentas (2006) and Avería Y Redencíon (2007). He also got a huge boost when his song, “Bajo La Lluvia,” appeared in the Mexican telenovela En Nombre Del Amor the following year.
González’ earlier work featured a full band but he’s opted for a stripped-down, acoustic approach over the past few years. That’s no surprise, really, as it’s a more perfect match for his sensitive vocal delivery, which gives his lyrical poetry an added kick. His tales of love, regret, and solitude take on added weight in an acoustic setting.
He’ll be in NYC (flyer below) then SXSW the following month where he’ll play a few acoustic sets and some others with his backing band. Get a taste of both if you’re out there in Austin or the East Coast.
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Go to iTunes to download tracks by Quique González: