Who is Conan Gray? Learn More About the Artist's Heartbreaking Music

Conan Gray released his first single, “Idle Town,” in 2017, followed by his debut EP, Sunset Season, in 2018. Four albums later—each depicting his heartbreaks, relationships, and life experiences—the 26-year-old singer-songwriter’s vulnerability welcomes fans into Gray’s world of tragic, unrequited love. 

His most recent album, Wishbone, chronicles what it’s like to be a part of the push and pull of an on-again-off-again relationship. Gray performed his song “Vodka Cranberry” on the VMA stage dressed in a prince costume, while his scene partner, Corey Fogelmanis, lay dead on a bed of flowers—an ode to the famous tragic love story, Romeo and Juliet. Fans and fellow musicians were stunned by the artist’s VMA debut performance, dancing and singing along to the song.  

This performance was also an extension to the video storyline Gray has been perpetuating through his music videos of “This Song,” “Vodka Cranberry,” and “Caramel.” Each video stars Fogelmanis and chronologically depicts the story between the two complicated lovers described throughout Wishbone. 

Since his debut EP, Gray has worked alongside producer Dan Nigro, who is also known for his collaborations with Olivia Rodrigo. Gray and Rodrigo became quick friends online and through Nigro— they are now known as an unstoppable pop duo. The two best friends post videos online promoting each other’s music while also celebrating birthdays and the release of new projects. Rodrigo even brought out Gray to sing with her during her Sour tour in 2022. 

Even though Gray just made his mainstage VMA debut, he has been touring and playing festivals around the world since 2018. 

Gray’s first tour started off as a limited run in the U.S., but quickly became a multiple-leg tour in North America and Europe. Gray’s shows were intimate and connective, featuring a bedroom setup on the stage, ensuring his fans truly felt like they were right where Gray was when he wrote the songs they were singing along to. 

The Kid Krow tour, also known as the “Comfort Crowd Tour,” showcased Gray’s debut album about the coming-of-age experience with performances of hit songs such as “Heather” and “Maniac.“ His Superache Tour featured stages with hearts and huge red, pink, and purple light shows as Gray sang about his complex relationships. 

Gray’s Found Heaven Tour was an energetic ’80s-themed experience that reflected the songs featured on the artist’s studio album. This album was unlike any other piece of work Gray had ever released, with an edge of synth-pop and dramatized vocals.

The Wishbone tour has yet to be seen, but if the tour is anything like Gray’s memorable VMA performance, fans can expect a garden-themed, love-stricken atmosphere that’s impossible to look away from.