1. Introduction: A Chart-Climber With a Classic Sound
“Until I Found You” was released on September 1, 2021, as the lead single from Stephen Sanchez’s debut EP, What Was, Not Now. The song quickly gained traction on social media, particularly TikTok, and later reached #23 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #8 on the Billboard Global 200. Its meteoric rise also led to a remix featuring Em Beihold, which further boosted its reach.
Written by Stephen Sanchez himself and produced by Ian Fitchuk (known for his work with Kacey Musgraves and Leon Bridges), the song stood out for its authentic 1950s doo-wop feel. The production includes vintage instrumentation and analog-style reverb that perfectly complements Sanchez’s soulful voice. The track became even more iconic after Elton John invited Sanchez to perform it as a duet at the 2023 Glastonbury Festival, introducing him to an even wider audience.
2. History of the Band or Song: From Bedroom Demos to Stardom
Stephen Sanchez, born in 2002 in California, began his musical journey by posting cover songs and original demos on TikTok. His breakout moment came when “Until I Found You” went viral on the platform, showcasing not only his vocal talent but also his uncanny ability to channel the emotional intensity of old-school love ballads.
The song was reportedly inspired by his real-life romance with a girl named Georgia, whom he references directly in the lyrics: “I would never fall in love again until I found her.” It’s this sincerity and raw vulnerability that has resonated with millions, drawing comparisons to legends like Roy Orbison and Elvis Presley.
3. On the Videoclip: A Retro Love Story in Motion
The official music video for “Until I Found You” was released on April 29, 2022, and was directed by Andrew Donoho, a visual storyteller known for his cinematic approach. The video features Sanchez in a 1950s-style setting, complete with vintage cars, tuxedos, and romantic slow dances under neon lights.
The choreography is subtle and elegant, capturing the essence of a simpler time. The female lead in the video is portrayed by actress Jolie Poirier, bringing a soft, romantic energy that matches the song’s dreamy aesthetic. The video serves as a visual love letter to mid-century Americana, amplifying the nostalgic charm of the track.
4. Talk Nerdy to Me: Music Theory Behind the Magic
“Until I Found You” is set in the key of B♭ major, with a slow tempo of around 60 BPM, giving it that sultry, sway-worthy groove. The chord progression—B♭–Gm–E♭–F—is a classic doo-wop pattern that evokes instant nostalgia.
Musically, the song employs rich vocal layering and subtle tape-saturation effects to mimic the sound of 1950s and early 60s recordings. Sanchez’s vocal technique also borrows from crooners of that era, using head voice and vibrato in a way that feels both romantic and hauntingly familiar. The production avoids modern synths and electronic elements, favoring tube-driven guitar amps, upright bass, and a soft brush snare drum, giving the track its vintage warmth.
5. More from the Artist: What to Listen to Next
If “Until I Found You” made you fall in love with Stephen Sanchez, there’s plenty more to explore in his growing discography. Highlights include:
- “Evangeline” – Another retro-inspired love song with cinematic flair. This track feels like it belongs in a Tarantino film soundtrack.
- “Only Girl” – Released in 2023, this ballad continues Sanchez’s homage to vintage romance with poetic lyrics and orchestral backing.
- “Hey Girl” – A doo-wop infused single released in 2022 that showcases Sanchez’s vocal versatility and flair for storytelling.
