On Sunday, October 29, 2023, the Hitchhiker tour made a stop in Houston, Texas. Without any opening acts, Omar Banos, professionally known as Cuco, was able to perform a nearly two-hour long set for his fans on the Lawn at White Oak Music Hall.
At around 7:30pm, the lights on the stage turned to a deep green. This made the audience scream in excitement, before calling out for the singer.
Cuco, Cuco, Cuco!
Audience
In response, the singer could be heard from backstage chanting “Houston, Houston, Houston.” This made the anticipation grow even higher. A couple minutes later, the band came out in white cowboy hats and denim outfits. Following them was the man everyone had been waiting for… latin-indie singer, Cuco. As cheers erupted across the crowd, the show kicked off with, “Foolish.”
From the minute Cuco stepped on the stage, the energy was present until the moment he walked off. He paced back and forth between the sides, making sure everyone was feeling the love that he was projecting. His kindness was something that was shown all throughout the show and was very heartwarming to see.
After songs such as “Lava Lamp,” “Hydrocone” and “Bossa No Sé,” the singer took the time to express his gratitude for everyone who showed up to the show. He explained how each individual person present helped to make his job possible and the band and crew’s jobs possible as well. Many of the crowd members reciprocated the gratitude by shouting, “We love you, Cuco!”
The show continued with many songs across his discography. There were newer songs from his recent album, Fantasy Gateway, and older ones all the way from his first album released in 2016, wannabewithu. Many of the songs flowed together to create a pleasant mashup, which delighted the audience during each transition from one song to the next.
The kindness of the artist was shown again when he took a quick pause to make sure the crowd was okay. After asking for waters to be given out, he explained to everyone that is important to look out for one another because we are all a community. He also took the time to sign fans’ vinyls and posters, as well as asking security to bring up the gifts that people have brought for him. It was very nice to see the singer taking the time to interact with his fans.
As the performance came closer to its end, Cuco sang more of his big hits like “Lover Is a Day,” and “Amor de Siempre.” He also made sure to say his famous line for the crowd, which doubled as a reminder to stay hydrated.
Drink your f*ckin’ water!
Cuco to audience
This made the audience break out in cheers and laughter. It was a great way to lead into the final moments of an amazing show.
Overall, Cuco brought an amazing presence to Houston, which will be remembered by fans for time to come. While almost over, there is still time to see the performer on the Hitchhicker tour. You can find more information about the remaining shows here.
I am from Houston, Texas and currently attending the University of Houston as a marketing major! From attending concerts, playing guitar, and collecting vinyl, I love anything that has to do with music. Some of my favorite artists include The Strokes, Omar Apollo, and boygenius. Besides that, I really like shopping, watching Pitch Perfect, and discovering new places in Houston!
