Like Chappell Roan last year, Alex Warren is one of those artists who exploded between being added to the Osheaga lineup and taking the stage. As a result, Jean-Drapeau Park was already packed by 3 p.m. to welcome the Californian phenomenon—one of the largest afternoon crowds in recent years.
Topping the Billboard charts for eight weeks, “Ordinary” has changed the trajectory of the 24-year-old singer-songwriter. Although Warren has been releasing songs sporadically since 2021, it was with the release of this track in February that he truly established himself as one of the new sensations of American pop.
From the very first notes, his powerful voice hits you like a ton of bricks. Warren skillfully conveys the emotions of a journey marked by hardship, including the loss of both his parents and the ups and downs of his love life.
“I’m going to get some water and my guitar, then play a song I wrote for my wife,” he says before performing the touching “Catch My Breath.” It is precisely this sincerity and humility that charm his audience and explain the extent of his success. Throughout his performance, the artist repeatedly thanked the audience and engaged in warm exchanges with them.
Despite a still limited repertoire, he delivered a generous show, culminating in “Ordinary,” sung at the top of his lungs by a captivated crowd. Special mention goes to “Bloodline,” undoubtedly one of the most intense and successful moments of his performance.
Alex Warren may not be revolutionizing the genre, but he offers polished, unifying, and, above all, effective folk-pop. And judging by the enthusiasm he generates, his rise is only just beginning.
Crédit photo: Tim Snow
