Conan Gray, a staple musician in today's pop culture has been shelling out catchy hits and emotional ballads since before he was old enough to drive.
Beginning his early days on YouTube, like many viral sensations of our time, Conan began posting videos like any other. Trending challenges, life stories, and of course, his own songwriting. Through this, he developed a loyal fanbase that aided in the popularity of his first single in 2017 titled, "Idle Town."
Following this, he went on to sign with Republic Records, released his first EP "Sunset Season," and embarked on his first US Tour.
Although the day 1's were here for his first release, he eventually caught everyone's eyes and gained viral attention when he posted a snippet of his song "Heather" onto TikTok. 2020 was the perfect time to gain attention through social media, and with Conan's past endeavors, it made it all that much easier.
Through three more album releases in the past 4 years, "Superache" (2022,) "Found Heaven" (2024,) and his most recent, "Wishbone" (2025), as a fan I have has the pleasure to not only see him live, but witness the evolution of his sound, aesthetic, all while staying unapologetically himself, which is what originally drew so many in.
Opening up this leg of tour is solo artist, Hemlocke Springs. As a fellow North Carolinian, seeing her in Charlotte was the perfect twist.
Immediately as she hit the stage, I was obsessed with her overall vibe — funky colors and fun outfits are the way to my heart. Coincidentally, her style of dress made me think of Chappell Roan, whom she just opened for prior to hoping on tour with Conan.
Even with a rain delay, Hemlocke Springs was able to put on an energetic memorable show that the crowd loved. This is my first time seeing her live, but I can say it definitely won't be the last.
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There is something so special about witnessing a Conan Gray concert. As someone who has had the pleasure of being on both sides of the barricade (working, and as a fan), the pure connection that surges throughout the venue is unmatched. One thing that many fans love about Conan's music is its emotional vulnerability, diving into hard to speak about topics in a way that's easier to digest, as well as having the funkiest dance songs thrown in (I'm looking at you "Bourgeoisieses.")
Crowd Shots by @ashleyymck
The amount of thought and attention put into the set, lighting, and costume of this show can not go without mention. Multiple costume changes in itself is a daunting task, and when they are all so intricate, it steps up the game even fruther. One of my favorite things about Conan is the attention to detail in his performance and public appearance outfits.
His "Superache" era was full of dark sequin sets, "Found Heaven" was all leather and flares with the perfect hint of spikes, all while "Wishbone" has been everything you could ever imagine. The sailor look inspired by the album shoot, striped pajamas paying ode to the tour name, glittering suits and matching hats, and angelic shirts with ruffles that are as dreamy as the nap he takes on stage. (Yes, he does have a full bed set as a prop, how cool right?!)
This years set was the perfect mixture of old and new. We were able to bask in the sadness of his discography all while saving room to dance and scream our heads off like a "Maniac" (song pun absolutely intended.) I also loved the aspect of an interactive setlist, Conan chooses a fan from the crowd each night to break a wishbone with him. Whoever gets the longest piece wins the right to choose.
In Charlotte's case, two fans dressed up as koala's were the lucky winners to choose "Alley Rose" (vs. "The Exit.") this show. Both being some of my favorites, I would have been elated either way, but I'm glad I had the opportunity to hear "Alley Rose" live for the first time... or should I call it "Koala Rose," which is what Conan declared it as, anyways.
Starting with "Found Heaven," I noticed Conan started playing even deeper into the story aspects of his album more than before. He has transported every show into a whole different world, whether it was an 80's dance club, or now this cozy country set, the dedication that follows is unmatched.
I always find myself being more in-tune with an album/show when I am able to appreciate the amount of work and thought that has gone into developing the aesthetic and carrying it out for so long... and Conan has proven yet again, that this is what he was made for.
Conan Gray by @ashleyymck
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