“Sunset Tower” is a deeply emotional song by Conan Gray, released in 2025 as part of his album Wishbone. The song tells the story of dealing with heartbreak and the pain of watching someone you once loved move on without you. Conan sings about walking past places they shared, like the Tower Hotel, remembering moments and conversations, while feeling stuck in memories and unable to move forward. Hearing through friends that his ex is dating again brings mixed feelings of sadness, jealousy, and longing.
The lyrics capture the struggle between wanting to heal and still being trapped in emotional pain. Conan tries to hide how much he is hurting while wishing the best for the other person but secretly hoping they feel some of the same heartache. The repeated line “Don’t tell me” expresses the painful desire to avoid hearing about the ex’s new life or happiness because it only makes his wound worse. The song balances vulnerability and raw honesty, painting a picture of the difficulties in letting go after a breakup.
Lyrics from “Sunset Tower”
Heard you’re in the city, I felt like total shit
Walking past the Tower Hotel
I used to pick you up after shooting all day
We’d drive around talking ’bout how we hate this place
Luka says you’re dating again
It’s horrible getting all your news through a friend
Been tryna hide that I’m still here stuck in your hell
So really, man, if you’re out here doing well
Don’t tell me
Don’t tell me
I can’t hear it
Don’t tell me
Spare me all the stories of how you’re moving on
Lying to myself when I say that’s what I want
Part of me just wanted some proof
It’s hurting you in the way it’s hurting me too
And I know what you said as I was leaving your place
You’ve got a messed up head and you need some space
I said, “Yeah, that’s clear, go get some help,”
But if you’re working on yourself
Don’t tell me
Don’t tell me
I can’t hear it
Don’t tell me
I wish you the best but hope that you die inside
Every time I’m playing in London
If there is someone new that you’re out here fucking
Don’t tell me (It’s easier to never know)
Don’t tell me (Than face it that you’re letting go)
I can’t hear it (Sometimes there’s just so much to say)
Don’t tell me (That it don’t matter anyway)
Don’t tell me (It’s easier to never know)
Don’t tell me (’Cause I’ve still got a little hope)
I can’t hear it (That you might want me back one day)
Don’t tell me (And I can be the one to walk away)
Walk away
Walk away
Walk away
Walk away
Don’t tell me
No, don’t tell me
Meaning Explained
The song “Sunset Tower” explores the pain of heartbreak and the confusion when someone you loved moves on with their life. Conan Gray feels caught between wanting to heal and still holding on to the memories and feelings. He tries to protect himself from more pain by asking not to hear about his ex’s new relationship or happiness. The song shows how difficult it is to accept loss and the messy emotions involved in letting go while wishing an ex the best but secretly hoping for a connection.
This poignant track connects with anyone who has experienced the struggle of moving on while still feeling stuck in the past. Conan Gray’s honest lyrics and emotional delivery provide comfort to those going through similar heartbreaks.
