Carín León Makes History on 'Austin City Limits'

Carín León taped an episode of the historic PBS series “Austin City Limits” on Saturday while in town for the first week of ACL Fest. The American-Statesman was there.

See highlights and read more about León’s performance in the Statesman’s full profile.

1. Carín León becomes 'ACL' show's first Mexican regional artist

In 1974, the televised PBS show debuted with Willie Nelson singing “Whiskey River.” Country artists dominated many of the show’s early years, though other forms of American roots music eventually took the stage. It took until the show’s 50th year for a Mexican regional artist to perform. (Find out why in our profile.)

2. Carín León’s large, eclectic band shines

León brought nearly 20 musicians to the Moody Theater’s stage Saturday, including an accordionist, trombonist, trumpeter, tubist, keyboardist, drummers, backup singers, and acoustic and electric guitarists. The combination was necessary to produce the varied sounds of León’s songs.

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3. New bilingual covers show Sonoran artist’s evolution

León performed two bilingual songs from his summer album, featuring Kane Brown and Leon Bridges. These songs illustrate the artist’s continuing evolution towards American sounds and markets. (Learn more about the evolution of León's style in our profile.)

4. Carín León steps into American country music

León paid homage to Johnny Cash with “Man in Black,” doubling the song’s tempo to create a rushing honky-tonk pace. In a show known for making legacies, León seemed invested in fitting himself into history.

Profile: In the first 'Austin City Limits' taping of música regional, Carín León fit right in