Conan Gray released “Wishbone,” his fourth album, on August 15, 2025, through Republic Records, marking a pivotal moment in his career. The American singer-songwriter, known for hits like “Heather,” surprised fans with the project, crafted in secrecy over the past two years. Recorded with renowned producer Dan Nigro, the album delves into themes of love, rejection, and self-discovery, boasting an introspective and mature sound. The “Wishbone Pajama Show” tour is set for September and October, with performances across the United States and Mexico. The album’s title was inspired by an unusual source: a wishbone sculpture Gray spotted at an airport. Hailed as a milestone, the album solidifies the 26-year-old artist’s evolution.
The creation of “Wishbone” was deeply personal. While touring for his previous album, “Found Heaven,” Gray wrote over 300 songs, narrowing them down to 12 for the new project. He described the process as a journey of rediscovery, with lyrics reflecting childhood memories, loves, and painful breakups. The lead single, “This Song,” released on May 30, came with an emotive music video, while “Vodka Cranberry” and “Caramel” complete a visual trilogy narrating a queer romance.
- Key creation moments: Lyrics penned in hotels and backstage at shows.
- Central themes: Love, rejection, and identity with a cinematic touch.
- Collaborations: Reuniting with Dan Nigro, producer for Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan.
- Initial impact: Fans praise the vulnerability and authenticity of the tracks.
The album has already garnered positive reviews, with CLASH magazine awarding it an 8/10, praising Gray’s vocal maturity and polished production.
Meaning behind “Wishbone”
The title “Wishbone” holds unique symbolism. Gray revealed its inspiration came from a 30-foot wishbone sculpture at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. Initially hesitant, he embraced the name for its superstitious meaning, reflecting the album’s themes. The lyrics explore the fragility of desires and the complexity of human relationships. In interviews, Gray shared that the project was a way to confront personal truths he was reluctant to reveal.
The creative process was marked by secrecy. Gray wrote in solitude, often in hotel rooms or backstage. This introspective approach resulted in a work he calls “the most fun to create.” His collaboration with Dan Nigro brought a rich sound, with strings and arrangements evoking comparisons to classic alternative pop. The album also marks a significant milestone: it’s the first for which Gray owns the publishing rights, a major step in his career.
- Visual inspiration: The album cover features a crow, tying back to “Kid Krow.”
- Production: Dan Nigro as executive producer ensures a cohesive, modern aesthetic.
- Lyrical themes: Songs explore summer romances to reflections on identity.
Impact on fans and critics
The reception to “Wishbone” has been enthusiastic. Fans, dubbed “Coneheads,” flooded social media with praise, particularly for “My World,” hailed as a bisexual anthem. Its lyrics, like “It’s my girl and it’s my guy / I’ll kiss ’em if I might like,” resonated with the LGBTQ+ community for its representation. Critics also lauded Gray’s evolution, with the Associated Press calling the album a “return to form” and a milestone for Gen Z pop.
The music videos for “This Song,” “Vodka Cranberry,” and “Caramel” form a continuous narrative centered on a queer romance between characters Wilson (Gray) and Brando (Corey Fogelmanis). Set in a rural town, the story captures the intensity and melancholy of a summer love. Fogelmanis, known from “My Life with the Walter Boys,” brought added attention to the trilogy, with fans praising their chemistry.
- Fan reactions: Social media posts highlight identification with the vulnerable lyrics.
- Critical acclaim: CLASH and Associated Press praise the emotional depth and maturity.
- Music videos: The visual trilogy strengthens the album’s cinematic narrative.
- Representation: “My World” is celebrated as a landmark for queer youth.
“Wishbone Pajama Show” tour
To promote “Wishbone,” Gray announced the “Wishbone Pajama Show” tour, kicking off on September 11 in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, and wrapping up on November 19 in Monterrey, Mexico. He encouraged fans to wear pajamas and sailor hats, fostering a relaxed, interactive vibe. Rising indie artist Hemlocke Springs will open the shows.
Tickets sold out quickly in several cities, reflecting Gray’s popularity. He also announced special events, like an acoustic performance and Q&A session in London at The Garage in July 2025. The tour promises intimate performances, with Gray prioritizing connection with his audience.
- Key dates: Starts in Ohio, ends in Mexico.
- Tour style: Fans encouraged to wear pajamas for a unique atmosphere.
- Opening act: Hemlocke Springs adds fresh energy to the lineup.
- Special events: Acoustic shows and Q&As strengthen fan engagement.
Production and collaborations
The partnership with Dan Nigro was pivotal to “Wishbone’s” success. Nigro, who worked with Gray on “Kid Krow,” brought his experience from projects with Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan. The production blends alternative pop with orchestral arrangements, balancing vulnerability and grandeur. Gray also collaborated with Corey Fogelmanis for the music videos, enhancing the album’s visual storytelling.
Gray emphasized the creative freedom he enjoyed during production. Unlike “Found Heaven,” which leaned into 80s synthpop, “Wishbone” returns to his introspective, acoustic roots. Recording in unconventional settings, like hotel rooms, added authenticity to the project.
- Dan Nigro: Executive producer brought cohesion and sophistication.
- Recording locations: Songs crafted in unique settings like backstage areas.
- Sonic style: Blends alternative pop with cinematic touches.
Visual narrative and cultural impact
The “Wishbone” music videos form a trilogy exploring a queer romance, delving into themes of love, rejection, and self-discovery. The story of Wilson and Brando, set in a rural setting, captivated fans with its authenticity and emotion. Addressing a queer romance was praised for its representation, especially as LGBTQ+ visibility in pop grows.
Gray drew from personal experiences, including childhood memories in San Diego, exploring tide pools. These personal touches appear in the lyrics and visuals, blending nostalgia and modernity. The album cover, featuring a crow and a “shooting star” aesthetic, ties “Wishbone” to his earlier work.
- Video trilogy: Continuous narrative explores love and separation.
- Personal inspirations: Lyrics reflect childhood memories and past loves.
- Visual aesthetic: Cover and videos blend nostalgia with modern elements.
Legacy of “Wishbone”
The release of “Wishbone” cements Conan Gray as a leading voice in Gen Z pop. His ability to pair vulnerable lyrics with sophisticated production places him alongside artists like Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodrigo. The album also marks greater creative control, with Gray owning his music’s publishing rights.
The tour and videos strengthen his bond with fans, who see their own experiences reflected in his lyrics. The queer representation, particularly in “My World,” amplifies the album’s cultural impact, already hailed as one of 2025’s most significant releases.
- Creative control: First album with Gray owning publishing rights.
- Fan connection: Lyrics and performances foster emotional bonds.
- Cultural relevance: Queer representation enhances the album’s impact.