Conan Gray gave a beautifully heartfelt performance at The Armory in Minneapolis last week.

A large LED screen placed center stage lit up with a graphic showing a crow in a cage, tying back to the title of Conan Gray’s 2020 album Kid Krow. The sweeping introduction of Wish You Were Sober marked Gray’s appearance atop a platform above the screen. Met by roaring cheers, Gray was all smiles as he began to sing. From the start, one could tell that this concert was going to be a party.

Gray paused to address the crowd after the first few songs, clarifying that he had a cold. Despite not feeling well, I was impressed by his ability to bring high energy and vocal strength to each song. Soon the LED screen parted, displaying a set resembling Gray’s bedroom. Gray remarked that most of his songs were written in his room, giving the audience a peek into his most authentic self. It is amazing to think that these anthemic pop songs had such humble beginnings. Under a spotlight, Gray delicately made his way through heartbreaking love song Astronomy.

After Affluenza, Gray paused to lead the crowd in singing Happy Birthday to a fan. This tender moment was followed by one of the most stunning highlights of the night. Introducing his song The Story, Gray discussed his childhood with the crowd, and how when growing up many would tell him, “It’ll get better,” which he didn’t believe at the time. “The funny thing is,” he added, “life actually does get a lot better.” It is amazing that Gray is willing to be so open and vulnerable with his fans.

Next, introducing Lookalike, Gray explained, “For a long time, there was somebody in my life who made me feel [badly], who made me feel so ugly… made me feel so undeserving of love. But the thing about love is, you don’t need to do anything to be deserving of love.” This was met with further cheers and cries of affirmation. Gray’s messages of love and acceptance and of realizing your self-worth are so incredibly important, especially for his largely younger fanbase. It is no surprise that his fans are so adoring and joyful in his presence.

Finally, Gray began to wrap up his set with heavy-hitting Little League, and his newest single Jigsaw. After ending his standard set with Maniac, Gray appeared for one last song, and perhaps his most popular, Heather. As the sold-out crowd filtered out into the street, I was again struck by the overwhelming sense of joy. I was reminded that earlier in the night Gray had expressed his gratitude to perform, and that he hoped his concert would bring everyone a little “joy in the darkness.” He achieved that.

Photos: Morgan Winston