Fluctuating between unleashed and sweet, Guatemalan singer-songwriter Mercedes Escobar’s raw, guttural vocals dominate any stage. Her voice has been likened to a mix between Linda Ronstadt and Howlin’ Wolf. She’s created a unique genre which blends the rawness of old blues and country vocals and guitar, with the intensity of magical realism lyrics and the sonic traditions of her home culture; All while staying true to her modern values against prejudice in music, race and gender. She calls this “Latin Americana.”​

​

Mercedes has shared the stage with artists such as Gaby Moreno, Rubén Albarrán (Café Tacvba), Malacates Trébol Shop, etc. She is also featured in the soundtrack of acclaimed independent films Temblores (2019) and Cadejo Blanco (2022; the latter also credits her as music supervisor). After receiving a scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music and graduating in May 2024, Mercedes is working on an upcoming bilingual album, produced by Grammy-winning producer and artist Gaby Moreno. It's release is set for March 2025.

 

Following a great reception to her first headlining shows in the USA (most of which sold out, such as the one at the legendary venue Club Passim in Cambridge, MA). Mercedes received a nomination as Latin Artist of the Year at the Boston Music Awards (click here to vote by Nov 22).

 

Other than her work in music, Mercedes organized the first Pride event in Antigua Guatemala, and was appointed "Ambassador Against Violence Against Women and Girls" by UN-Women Guatemala.