“We love the old shit” screamed one dedicated and outspoken fan at the Fleming Steakhouse. But that did not stop him. This was Shakey Graves, playing on stage.

Story by Hayli Rudolph

South by Southwest was blessed with a free intimate show from one of Austin’s own, Alejandro Rose-Garcia, known as Shakey Graves. Presented by Texas A&M University and Champion, the Fleming Steakhouse was transformed into Rose-Garcia’s stopping grounds on Monday.

Taking the stage at 7 p.m. sharp, the Austin-native found his heels on his trusty red suitcase drum swiftly. Throughout the hour and a half long set, the Americana singer played a diverse set of tracks from several albums, like “Stereotypes of a Blue Collar Male” from the 2017 Nobody’s Fool and Donor Blues EP worked its way to stage, for a surprise appearance. Fans, new and old, were uncontrollable charmed, swooning even. The 31-year-old was nothing short of remarkable as he played half a solo set, only bringing out his drummer Chris “Boo” Booshada to accompany him on a few tracks.

Rose-Garcia spoke of a time when it was just him and Boo playing shows, looking back now from his five-piece ensemble. “Us doing duo stuff, well that’s family shit right there,” Rose-Garcia said.

The evening continued with an interactive and candid crowd and an equally honest and talkative performer. Near the end of the night as Shakey was concluding the show, he reached to adjust his tan hat only to find it on backwards. Shocked to have gone majority of the set without recognition from any of the many attendees, he let out a joking “fuck you.”

And just like that, as quickly as the night began, it drew to a hauling end. “Happy South by Southwest,” he said, waving goodbye.