The concert line outside of The Fillmore Theater transformed into a red carpet as leather boots, flowy garments and funky patterns strutted across the sidewalk.
Chandeliers along the ceiling added elegance to a jazz club-like atmosphere, along with a live drummer and pianist. Touring for his 2025 debut album, “Love on Digital,” which explored love connections and experiences, Destin Conrad was welcomed by many at The Fillmore Silver Spring following his opening act, Matt Keen.
With a line wrapped around the corner, bold jewelry and plaid were almost as loud as the audience as Grammy-nominated R&B singer and songwriter Conrad graced the stage. His concert acted as a modern-day version of a 1950s jazz club.
Born in Tampa, Florida, Conrad was originally popular on Vine, attaining over one million followers on the now-defunct short-film video app before making his presence known in music.
After earning songwriting credits on singer Kehlani’s album, “It Was Good Until It Wasn’t,” which debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200 in May 2020 and opening for her tour, Conrad’s talent was recognized by many, and he was able to make a name for himself in the music industry.
The young artist is known for his queer storytelling and jazz musicality, displayed in his recent jazz album “wHIMSY.” Released in August of 2025, the album reached #1 on iTunes’ contemporary jazz chart.
Green and orange ambient lights, soon accompanied by Conrad in a sequined-covered bomber jacket that glittered like the chandeliers, enlivened the crowd as he made way from behind the curtains in a composed, practiced manner.
Nala Millier was in attendance for the second time, having first discovered Conrad’s videos in 2019.
“He really stands out because he’s not afraid to try new sounds, and when he tries a new sound, he goes all in. Even with this jazz album, it was unexpectedly dropped and he did his research on what artists would be good to collaborate with,” she said.
Miller went on to describe how she became more connected to Conrad’s musicality.
“I followed him for all those years and Kehlani kept promoting his music, so I just started listening to it, and I really resonated with it. Every album made me fall more in love,” Miller said.
The crowd was in harmony with Conrad as he moved along the stage, engaging with the audience and doing multiple wellness checks.
Wellness checks came after multiple supporters fainted in the crowd due to extreme heat, causing Conrad to pause the show multiple times. People were escorted out for medical attention. He ensured concert goers were well before continuing, urging fans to drink plenty of water. Eventually, the AC was turned on after a few more people fainted.
Conrad made his exit, or so people thought. After saying goodbye to the audience and leaving through the stage curtains, Conrad returned a few seconds later, closing out the show with his final song and fan-favorite, “Kissing in Public.”
Copy edited by Daryl R. Thomas Jr.
