Music is universal — one of the few constants in life that connects instantly and deeply. That’s the sentiment of Juno-winning guitarist Oscar Lopez, whose music transcends language and speaks directly to the soul.
“I may have a strong accent, but I communicate with people in my own way — and they understand the message, which is that we are all human beings and we are here,” said Lopez.
Ahead of his May 31 performance at the Cochrane RancheHouse, Lopez caught up with The Eagle to talk about love, life, and his lifelong love — music.
“I am here for a reason,” he said. “My purpose is music, and to bring happiness to myself and to others. Believe me, it's very important not to be depressed. It's very important to do your best to be happy in life, and to be grateful for what we have, not just what we wish to have.”
At 71, Lopez still radiates the same fiery energy he had when he began performing professionally at age 17.
“I may be 71 now, but I’m still kicking,” he laughed. “Music is the language of love. It’s the language of peace, clarity, sincerity — and that’s what I spread when I play.”
Speaking of love, Lopez’s connection to Cochrane goes beyond music.
“To tell the truth, my lady lives here,” he shared. “I've played here before, but now I’m romantically connected to the town. It’s my home away from home.”
From the beef quesadillas he enjoys to the sound of the passing trains and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, Lopez says he’s grown fond of the little things that make Cochrane special.
“My lady and I go over to the local park for beautiful walks and sit down at the bench,” he said. “We take in the view — this town is so beautiful.”
Lopez will take the RancheHouse stage, for the first time, as part of his Ahora o Nunca (“Now or Never”) concert, alongside Maximiliano Cerda Appelt and Marcelo Andres, his “Power Trio.”
“My guys are fantastic musicians — and good looking, too,” he joked. “They follow me everywhere I go. We have this musical connection, that magic that’s not easy to get.”
When asked which songs he’s most excited to perform, Lopez laughed at the challenge of choosing.
“I probably have 100 to 150 songs recorded,” he said. “They’re all my babies — it’s hard to pick a favourite. They’re all beautiful.”
Lopez, who was born in Santiago, Chile, has released 10 albums blending Latin, jazz, blues and even folk influences. He’s earned multiple accolades over his decades-long career, including two Juno Awards.
“My music’s been called many things — even folk,” he said. “But I don’t like to put my music in a box. Coming from Chile, I can’t avoid my Latin roots. But I follow my heart when I record. It doesn’t matter what style it is, as long as the people enjoy it.”
Oscar Lopez will perform at the Cochrane RancheHouse on May 31 at 8 p.m.
Tickets are available at: eventbrite.ca
