Olivia Rodrigo and Conan Gray Disclose How They ‘Offer Each Other Poor Guidance’ on Song Releases
In a recent exchange for Interview magazine, Olivia Rodrigo and Conan Gray opened up about their tendencies to dissuade each other from releasing certain tracks as singles. The pair, known for their great chemistry, revealed a humorous side to their relationship when it comes to giving advice on music releases.
During their candid conversation, Rodrigo, 22, shared an anecdote about Gray advising her against releasing “Vampire” as a single. She mentioned, “On Superache, you played me ‘Memories,’ which turned out to be the biggest hit on the album. Everyone loved it. And I remember hearing it for the first time being like, ‘I just think you have better songs.'”
Likewise, Gray, 26, expressed his reservations about Rodrigo’s choice of “Vampire” as a single from her project Guts. He recalled, “When I played you Guts, I played you ‘Vampire’ and I was like, ‘Isn’t this good?’ And he’s like, ‘Not for a first single,'” illustrating how their close relationship may cloud their judgement on song selections.
Despite their occasional missteps in advising each other, Gray disclosed that Rodrigo’s mother was a fan of his track “Vodka Cranberry.” He shared, “My mom loved it. My mom’s such a huge Conan fan. My whole family, actually. They travel miles to see you in concert,” highlighting the personal connections that extend beyond just musical collaborations.
The Interview article comes on the heels of Gray’s recent release of his studio album, Wishbone, on Aug. 15. In a social media post in May, Gray reflected on the creative process behind the album, describing it as a reaffirmation of his identity during a transformative period in his twenties.
Rodrigo and Gray’s friendship dates back to their shared passion for music and mutual acquaintance with producer Dan Nigro. Rodrigo has previously praised Gray, stating, “We’re just pals and I think he’s so brilliant.” Gray reciprocated the sentiment, lauding Rodrigo as “a wonderful person and a very, very talented songwriter.”
Their lighthearted banter extends to social media interactions, with Gray celebrating the release of Rodrigo’s single “Vampire” by playfully referencing the characters from Twilight. Their supportive dynamic showcases a blend of camaraderie and creative respect that defines their collaborative relationship.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, the camaraderie and shared experiences between artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Conan Gray offer a refreshing insight into the personal connections that underpin creative collaborations. As they continue to navigate their musical journeys, their playful exchanges and mutual admiration serve as a testament to the enduring bonds forged through a shared love for music.