Conan Gray, the pop sensation known for his heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies, recently sat down for an exclusive interview to discuss his latest album, Wishbone. In this candid conversation, Gray delves into the album’s themes of heartbreak and self-discovery, while also sharing insights into his personal life, including his thoughts on relationships and his experiences working with other artists like Addison Rae. The interview offers a unique glimpse into the creative process behind Wishbone and the emotional journey that inspired its creation. This article explores the key highlights from the discussion, providing fans with a deeper understanding of Conan Gray’s artistry and his perspective on love, loss, and finding oneself.
The Inspiration Behind ‘Wishbone’
Wishbone, Conan Gray’s surprise new album, marks a departure from his previous work, drawing inspiration from an actual breakup. “I was almost trying to write to understand what they would feel like,” he says, reflecting on his earlier songwriting. The album, crafted over two years in secrecy, features twelve tracks selected from over 300 songs, each capturing different facets of his emotional journey. Gray’s willingness to confront his vulnerabilities has resulted in his most mature and resonant work to date.
Reuniting with Dan Nigro
Conan Gray’s reunion with producer Dan Nigro on Wishbone is a significant highlight. Nigro, known for his work with artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan, initially collaborated with Gray on his debut EP, Sunset Season. Gray emphasizes Nigro’s role as a mentor: “Dan adopted me, basically. I legitimately went from being a Texas high schooler—no nepo story, nothing—straight into his arms. He’s truly like a father to me and Olivia and to Kayleigh [Chappell Roan].”
Exploring Superstitions and Fate
Wishbone delves into themes of superstition and fate, particularly evident in the track “11:11.” Gray, though not a believer in superstitions, found himself intrigued by the idea of assigning meaning to coincidences during a period of personal turmoil. He explains, “During that time, I got paranoid, but I also romanticized fate. I gave meaning to coincidental things—numbers on a microwave, star signs, seeing someone’s initials in strange places. I kept hoping the universe would explain what the fuck was going on.”
Early Listener of Addison Rae’s ‘Diet Pepsi’
Conan Gray shares a surprising anecdote about being one of the first to hear Addison Rae’s song, “Diet Pepsi.” He recounts, “I’m close with Luka [Kloser] and Elvira [Anderfjärd], who made Addison’s record. It was their first day working together, and I stopped by with a friend. I’d met Addison a few times—she’s insanely talented and hardworking. They played me just the chorus, and I said, ‘This is awesome. Please finish this.’ They did their magic, and it’s a smash. I was there during the painting of the Mona Lisa.”
Pre-Hangout Research
Gray humorously admits to conducting thorough research before meeting new people: “This feels pointed. I 100% know your home address [before we hang]. It’s become an issue though…” He shares a story about his past obsession with Josh Hutcherson, illustrating the extent of his pre-hangout investigations. “When I was younger, I was obsessed with Josh Hutcherson after Bridge to Terabithia. I learned everything about him. Watched every movie…Anyway, Josh Hutcherson, if you’re reading this: You’re a legend, and I’m sorry I knew you were from Kentucky and on the basketball team.”
Lip Care Secrets
When asked about his lip balm, Conan Gray reveals an unconventional solution: nipple balm. He explains, “This is gross, but I had an era where I had insanely chapped lips, because I was on medication for my skin, and it was like, fucking up my life. The only solution that worked was this thing called nipple balm—don’t look at my boobs right now. It’s made for people who are breastfeeding…So thank you to the nipple community for my nourished lips.”
Instagram Explore Page
Gray describes his Instagram Explore page as a reflection of his fascination with marine life and vintage media. “Do you know this thing called tide pooling? When the tide goes low, all of these little pools are revealed in the beach, and you can find the most incredible creatures…That’s a lot of my explore page. Also fossils and old Hollywood audition tapes. I don’t need to see real people today, I need to see sea slugs.”
Final Thoughts
Conan Gray’s interview provides a comprehensive look into the making of Wishbone, revealing the personal experiences and creative collaborations that shaped the album. From his deep connection with producer Dan Nigro to his exploration of superstitions and his unique approach to relationships, Gray offers an intimate glimpse into his world. Wishbone, released on August 15, 2025, stands as a testament to Gray’s growth as an artist and his ability to transform personal experiences into compelling music. This exploration underscores his dedication to authenticity and artistry, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in contemporary pop music.
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