Conan Gray is diving deep into queer heartbreak with the release of his newest single Vodka Cranberry, a delicate and emotional ballad laced with longing and cinematic drama.
Dropped on July 11 via Republic Records and Universal Music Canada, Vodka Cranberry serves as the second single from Gray’s upcoming album Wishbone, set for release on August 15.
The track reunites Gray with producer Dan Nigro, known for his ability to craft sweeping, emotionally charged soundscapes.
Gray’s vocals, aching and vulnerable, explore the slow ache of a breakup that never quite resolves, a wound that throbs instead of heals.
“Vodka Cranberry” isn’t just a song—it’s a slow burn of sorrow and storytelling, unfolding like a cinematic short film for the ears.
The emotional depth of the track is amplified by a lush music video directed by Danica Kleinknecht (also known as Mk.gee), shot on Kodak 35mm film in Gray’s home state of Texas.
The video continues the visual narrative introduced in his earlier single This Song, starring Corey Fogelmanis from Girl Meets World as Gray’s onscreen love interest.
The story follows a couple, Wilson and Brandon, on a romantic road trip across the American Southwest, filled with dreamlike moments—tent cuddles, gas station snacks, lakeside kisses—and a sense of tender queer intimacy.
But as the journey continues, cracks begin to show. In a dimly lit dive bar, Conan’s character reaches for his partner’s hand and is met with silence, foreshadowing the heartbreak to come.
Eventually, the montage of memories gives way to a gut-wrenching twist as his lover quietly slips away while Gray’s character sleeps, leaving behind only tears and the jingle of keys.
Fans have reacted passionately online, flooding social media with comments like “album of the year already” and “this mv completely destroyed me.”
Many praised the video for its authenticity and emotional depth, as well as its unapologetic commitment to telling queer stories with nuance and beauty.
Some fans have already admitted to adding the track to their “cry in the shower” playlists.
With Wishbone set to arrive this August, it’s clear that Gray is leaning even further into cinematic storytelling, coupling raw vulnerability with striking queer visuals.
If Vodka Cranberry is any indication, Gray’s next album will be a heartbreak symphony wrapped in queer romance—and his most personal work yet.