Written By : Killian O’Neil and Photographed by: Muriel Margaret
PHILADELPHIA — Finneas took the stage at The Fillmore to a sold-out crowd, proving that he’s carving his own path as a solo artist, distinct from his sister Billie Eilish’s massive success. The night was filled with moments that felt like the universe had conspired for me to be there. I had literally been belting out his hit “For Cryin’ Out Loud” just the day before in my car. So when I received an email to cover the show, it felt like a sign I couldn’t ignore.
Finneas, 26, stepped into his own spotlight at The Fillmore, with a setlist that spanned the breadth of his recent work, including Starfucker, Lotus Eater, Cleats, Sweet Cherries, and What’s It Gonna Take to Break Your Heart? The crowd couldn’t get enough, singing along to every word, filling the venue with an energy that was equal parts intimate and electric. The moment felt like more than just a concert — it was a celebration of Finneas’ evolution as an artist.
Finneas walked on stage dressed in a black leather blazer, white T-shirt, trousers, and Converse sneakers. His outfit fit the vibe of the night — casual yet stylish, confident yet understated. He moved through the setlist with a relaxed presence, effortlessly commanding the crowd’s attention with his voice and the authenticity of his performance.
His band — made up of two guitarists, a bassist, a keyboardist, and a drummer — delivered a performance that complemented Finneas’ sound. Their synergy made the performance feel seamless, the music flowing naturally and adding new dimensions to the songs. Each member played their part with precision, but it was clear that the night was built around Finneas, whose quiet confidence anchored the show.
The stage design added a nostalgic yet playful element to the atmosphere. The drapes that hung behind the performers reminded me of something out of a Looney Tunes backdrop, contributing to the surreal, whimsical quality of the show. The blending of vintage aesthetic with modern energy reflected Finneas’ own musical influences, which are rooted in both the past and present. There was a sense that, while he might have his influences, Finneas is firmly planting his feet in his own unique style.
As soon as Finneas opened with Starfucker, it was clear that the crowd was with him every step of the way. The excitement was palpable, and people were singing along, creating an immediate connection between Finneas and his fans. Each song that followed felt like another layer of his emotional range being revealed. There was a rawness to his performance that was hard to ignore — Finneas is a master at making the personal feel universal. His music is not just about melodies; it’s about storytelling.
One of the night’s most emotional moments came when Finneas paused to acknowledge his sister, Billie Eilish. He dedicated a song to her, singing the lyric, “a different shade of blue, a little family feud,” with a smile. The moment was brief but powerful, a glimpse into the sibling bond that has clearly shaped both of their careers. It was also a rare opportunity to see Finneas without the shadow of his sister’s fame looming over him. While his connection with Billie is undeniable, it’s clear that Finneas is forging his own path and creating his own identity as an artist.
Another powerful moment came during the stripped-down performance of Mona Lisa. With only an acoustic guitar and his voice, Finneas brought the song to life in an intimate and vulnerable way that had the entire room hanging on his every note. His voice, already rich and smooth, took on a new depth as he sang with raw emotion. It was one of those moments when the entire audience seemed to hold their breath, caught up in the sincerity of the performance.
Finneas’ ability to bring vulnerability to his music is one of the things that makes him stand out as an artist. His lyrics often dive into emotions that many would rather avoid, but he’s unafraid to expose those raw feelings, making his music feel like a reflection of something deeper. This was evident throughout the show, as each song seemed to peel back another layer of his soul. Whether singing about heartbreak, self-doubt, or the search for meaning, Finneas’ words resonate because they feel so honest.
The interaction with fans throughout the night only added to the sense of connection. Finneas is far from the distant, aloof rock star persona that many might expect. He took a moment to engage with the crowd in a spontaneous way, even grabbing a fan’s phone and snapping a selfie with the band. These little moments of spontaneity made the show feel more like a celebration of the music and the fans who support it. His approachability and openness were key in forging a deeper connection with the audience, further blurring the line between artist and fan.
Finneas’ relationship with his band was another highlight of the evening. Under the direction of Erin Forbes, the band played with impressive chemistry, making each song feel alive in its own unique way. The drummer, who also plays for the band Bad Suns, brought a punchy rhythm to the show that elevated the entire performance. There was a sense of camaraderie on stage, with each member feeding off the energy of the others, and it was clear that the collective effort was what made the night so special.
Finneas’ songwriting is undeniably his own. His ability to write deeply personal, often raw lyrics, while simultaneously making them universal, is a gift. His songs explore themes like love, loss, and identity, but they don’t just recount events—they make the listener feel them. Every word he sings seems to come from a deeply personal place, but the feelings behind the songs are relatable to anyone who has experienced the highs and lows of life.
As the night drew to a close, the energy in the room reached a fever pitch. Finneas finished the show with For Cryin’ Out Loud, and the crowd erupted in excitement. It was an explosive end to a night filled with emotional highs and intimate moments. For many, it was a cathartic release—a chance to connect with the music on a deeper level. It was clear that Finneas had not just performed a concert; he had delivered an experience that left the audience feeling seen, heard, and understood.
Finneas is no longer just Billie Eilish’s brother. He’s an artist in his own right, and his performance at The Fillmore proved that his songs belong to everyone willing to listen. His voice, his presence, and his authenticity were undeniable. This was more than a showcase of talent—it was a declaration that Finneas has arrived, and he’s here to stay.
Instagram |TikTok |Facebook| YouTube |Twitter
