FINNEAS at the Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium was alive with anticipation as Finneas took the stage for the first night of his highly anticipated “For Crying Out Loud Tour.” Kicking off with Bad Suns’ opening set, the audience was immediately treated to a burst of shimmering alt-pop energy. Their new single “Communicating” had the crowd swaying and moving, setting the perfect tone for the night.
When Finneas emerged, it was clear that he had every intention of making this night unforgettable. The soft spotlight revealed him seated at his piano, a calm yet powerful presence…
The first notes of “Lotus Eater” sent the audience into a frenzy, and from there, the night was a journey of music, emotion, and connection. There was an undeniable chemistry between Finneas and the crowd, as every song prompted an eruption of cheers.
Notably, Finneas acknowledged the significance of the first night of tour, lightheartedly mentioning that his voice was fresh, and that he had actually managed to get eight hours of sleep—an amusing but welcome bit of honesty before diving into the lush, mellow “Sweet Cherries.” It was a moment of joy, with his easy banter and engaging storytelling drawing fans in deeper.
One of the most magical moments of the evening came during “Little Window,” where the room was filled with the warm glow of phone flashlights, creating an ethereal, almost intimate vibe. You could feel the connection between Finneas and the crowd as he shared that personal, reflective track, allowing everyone to bask in the glow of the song’s beauty.
During the set, Finneas dedicated “Family Feud” to his sister, Billie Eilish, sharing that this tour marked the first time in a while that they wouldn’t be on the road together, as she’s in Australia prepping for her own tour. The heartfelt mention added another layer of personal depth to the night, further solidifying Finneas’ ability to open up with his fans through his music.
As the night drew to a close, it was clear that the set had built to a crescendo, with Finneas delivering an iconic rendition of “Let’s Fall In Love For the Night.” But the real surprise was yet to come. As the final notes of “For Crying Out Loud” rang out, Finneas brought out Hayley Williams, his mentor and a massive influence on his musical journey. Together, they tore through an electrifying cover of Paramore’s “crushcrushcrush,” sending the crowd into a frenzy of nostalgia and excitement.
The night was a testament to Finneas’ raw talent, the chemistry he shares with his audience, and his ability to create unforgettable moments. From the organic grooves to the heartfelt dedications and the surprise collaboration, this was a concert that will be etched in the minds of those lucky enough to witness it. Finneas has firmly established himself not only as a skilled musician but as a true showman, one who knows how to connect, engage, and deliver a set that leaves you wanting more.
**All photos by Andy Barron**
