Dean Lewis, an Australian singer-songwriter, has built a reputation for crafting heartbreaking and sad songs, even admitting in a 2024 interview that “[sad songs] they are just easier to write.” But while his lyrics may tug at your heartstrings and make you buy another box of Kleenex, his live performances are anything but melancholy.
On April 8th, Lewis lit up the iconic 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C., with a sold-out show that was uplifting, emotional, and unforgettable. The performance felt significant as it took place during Stress Awareness Month—an ironic twist, given that Lewis’s presence on stage brought nothing but comfort and joy. Whether you had a spot in the front row or in the back where you couldn’t see the stage, he created a way of making everyone in the crowd feel seen, valued, and at ease.
Dean’s Empire
The night began with a powerful entrance from Dean singing “Empire”, the first track off of his most recent album. The blue and indigo lights made it clear that this was not a sombre night. His position in the middle of the stage showed the audience that this was only the beginning. There was plenty of space to jump and get closer to the fans. Dean knew what he was doing; he was building his empire.
From there, he skipped around the set list to play an oldie but goodie, “Hold of Me,” the first song off his album released in 2019. This track originally reflected Dean’s previous struggles with gaining trust in a relationship. Six years later, performing it in D.C. gave it new meaning—it became his way of building trust with American fans and showing he is a gentle, kind presence in a new place.
Making Memories
During his performance of “Memories,” “7 Minutes,” and “All I Ever Wanted,” Dean waved up to a young girl standing high on the balcony. Her face lit up with the biggest smile as she turned to her mom, beaming with excitement. Nearby, a father filming the moment had tears in his eyes, overwhelmed with happiness for the young fan. A couple sitting on the stairs swayed together, quietly crying as the music washed over them. And this was only halfway through the set. Throughout the venue, people were swaying, clapping, singing along, and connecting deeply with Dean—especially those near the barricade on the first floor, who reached out to him.
An unforgettable moment of the show came when Dean leapt down to the right side of the floor mid-song, still strumming his guitar, and handed his microphone to a fan standing just in front of the barricade. At first, people on the balcony chuckled at his playful behavior—until they realized what was happening. Dean wasn’t just goofing off; he was giving that fan a moment to shine, turning her into his human mic stand during the emotional track, “Cold.” The fan held the mic confidently, singing along word for word as the crowd joined in. It was fitting given the chorus: “You’re the only thing that keeps me from the cold / You’re always warmin’ me up with your ‘please don’t go’ / You’re my heart and soul / You’re the only thing that keeps me from the cold.” In that magical moment, she was not only a fan—she was part of the performance.
Covers, Commemorations, and Changes
After singing a new song titled “I Hate That It’s True,” which is set to be released on April 11th, he took a brief break backstage. Then, after the lights dimmed for about 30 seconds, Dean got up to perform not on the stage but on the left side of the balcony. He sang “Half a Man,” the last track on his debut album, and “The Last Bit of Us,” the last track on his most recent album. It was a change of pace, an excellent way to engage with new fans, and a different perspective.
Dean shared that his original band couldn’t join this leg of the American tour due to visa issues, so he pulled together a new group two weeks ago, who impressively learned all his songs and covers in time and are now part of his empire. After telling the story, he launched into a high-energy cover of Gracie Abrams’ “That’s So True,” tossing his guitar, jumping around the stage, and connecting with fans. From the balcony, Dean was making new friends with every song.
Just before the encore, Dean explained that he took this cover off the set list and added it back for North America. He then brought his opener—and now close friend, whom he could call a brother —Henry Moodie. Together, they performed a duet of “Iris” by the Goo Goo Dolls. Their performance left the audience in awe of their combined talent.
We’ll Be Alright
At the end of the night, it didn’t matter if you showed up with your partner, a parent, your best friend, or solo—no one felt alone in that venue, not physically, not emotionally. Dean’s live performance was nothing short of unforgettable. At one point, he charmed the crowd by saying, “I love your [American] accent” during “Be Alright”, all while draping himself in an American flag.
“So thank you for all the memories / ‘Cause you’ll never know what it meant to me / ‘Cause you were the one who gave me peace / When I had none left.” – from “Be Alright” by Dean Lewis
Listen to his recent release, “I Hate That It’s True,” now.
You can pre-save “The Epilogue” (Deluxe) set to release on July 11th, 2025.
Tickets for the rest of his tour are available on his website.
