CONAN GRAY: FOUND HEAVEN
At just 25 years old, Conan Gray has rapidly ascended to stardom, becoming the musical spokesperson for Gen Z’s unrequited romantic longings and angst. Gray grew up in a suburb of Georgetown, Texas, where a predominantly older community surrounded him. Feeling isolated during his teenage years, he wrote love songs in his bedroom as a hobby. These intimate creations soon found a broader audience through YouTube, where Gray began uploading videos of his songs, leading to his initial recognition.
In 2017, Gray went viral with his song “Idle Town,” an aching tribute to his hometown, complemented by shaky hand-cam visuals that added to its aesthetic. The song resonated deeply with listeners, and Gray embarked on a journey that led GQ magazine to dub him “this generation’s new prince of sad songs.”
After high school, Gray enrolled at UCLA but decided to cut his academic journey short after signing a record deal. His formal recording career was a natural extension of the impressive fan base he had built on YouTube, which consisted of millions of subscribers. Even now, Gray primarily engages with his fans on TikTok, sharing his life and addressing his followers as “besties,” similar to his approach in songwriting.
Gray’s debut album, “Kid Krow,” released in March 2020, debuted at #5 on the Billboard 200 chart. Soon after its release, the world faced unprecedented circumstances due to the pandemic. However, Gray’s highly expressive music, with themes of angst, loneliness, and unrequited love, resonated with the overall emotional atmosphere of the time. The single “Heather” from the album cemented Gray’s unique place in the global pop scene. The song, an ode to the ugly jealous emotions that arise when in love, struck a chord with listeners and remains Gray’s most significant single.
Gray’s music is often compared to that of his contemporary and friend Olivia Rodrigo, as both employ similar songwriting themes and techniques, inviting listeners into their inner emotional worlds and musings about love. Despite these comparisons, Gray insists his music is a reflection of himself. Unlike Rodrigo and other lovelorn confessional writers, Gray has not been in a serious relationship, which he emphasizes in his sophomore album “Superache.”
Released in 2022, “Superache” represents a natural progression of Gray’s sound, with lyrics demonstrating increased maturity and subtlety. The album delves into sensitive themes, such as familial trauma, handled tastefully with subtle metaphors. It is a fitting successor to “Kid Krow,” showcasing Gray’s evolving artistry.
While some may dismiss Gray as just another pop singer-songwriter, his massive fanbase indicates a growing demand for music perceived as genuine and confessional. Although Gray can be considered a superstar, he treats his fan base as his confidants and closest friends, ensuring continued support and love for his future projects.
Conan Gray is preparing to embark on his forthcoming concert run, "Found Heaven on Tour." The singer and songwriter will stop in North America, Australia, and Europe in 2024 to promote his latest album, Found Heaven, released on April 5.
