Watch – “Vevo Artist Portrait” performance of “Actor” by Conan Gray
As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the incredible music we’ve experienced over the past twelve months. With year-end posts starting to surface online, I’m taking a pause from sharing new releases to highlight a standout album that truly captivated me: “Wishbone” by Conan Gray, released this summer. This remarkable album has not only showcased Conan’s artistic evolution. Still, it has also delivered an array of compelling singles, including “Vodka Cranberry,” “Caramel,” and “This Song.” It’s undeniably one of my favourite albums of 2025 and a must-listen for anyone who appreciates authentic and evocative music.
I was completely captivated by Conan’s televised performance at the Reading (“Leeds & Reading” festival) this summer. While his full set was undeniably impressive. Above all, I find myself even more moved by the stripped-back renditions of his songs that he shares. These intimate performances manage to evoke a deeper emotional resonance that truly captivates the listener. Therefore, it feels only right that as music video network Vevo launches its new original series, “Artist Portrait,” Conan should be the one to kick off this franchise with a heartfelt performance of “Actor.” ( i.e. the opening track from his remarkable album “Wishbone.”)
“Artist Portrait” spotlights the spirit of an artist outside of the studio. Where each piece of content providing an immersive, artist-led portrait in locations reflective of their creative vision and personal identity. Shaped by the artists themselves, the series’ performances and interviews are held in locations near and dear to their heart. Moreover, providing a unique look into their creative framework.
Filmed in the enchanting setting of Fire Island, New York, Conan’s inaugural “Artist Portrait” performance of “Actor” unfolds in a beautifully wood-panelled attic overlooking the sea. His poignant delivery resonates deeply as he lays bare the anguish of witnessing a love interest seamlessly feign that their romantic past never existed. Notably offering an emotional authenticity that compels you to question whether those cherished moments were ever real at all.
“Vevo’s Artist Portrait series delves into the spirit—the inner creative life—of an artist in the present tense,” explained Chris Pereira, Executive Producer, Vevo, For the launch of the series, we met Conan at a seaside writing cabin for some intimate performances, and spoke with him about the long, winding process of sifting through a body of material to find the eventual voice of his second album, “Wishbone.”
“Vevo has a rich heritage and vast expertise in capturing beautiful, top-quality content for artists. We’re expanding the Vevo Originals portfolio and building upon the success of our ‘Extended Play’ series, which marked our official foray into on-location short films that blend narrative with performance. With ‘Artist Portrait’, we bring the set to the artist, wherever they are. Meanwhile, fans get to enjoy the very best of their favorite artists, live, from select real-world locations that are special to them – where they can connect in a uniquely powerful way, unlike anywhere else,” said JP Evangelista, SVP, Content, Programming & Marketing, Vevo. “Having worked with Conan at Vevo Studios since the early days of his career, it is such a pleasure to see him flourish! In this series, fans will see Conan like never before, by the seaside: raw, authentic, and deeply personal.”
Connect with Conan Gray
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