Renny Conti: The New Voice in Indie-Rock
Photo credit: Gabe Long
Renny Conti stepped on to the Williamsburg Music Hall stage sporting a crewneck, carpenter jeans, and hiking boots. He came to the audience ready to share his reflective songs transparently and passionately.
Conti grabbed his red guitar strap, swinging his instrument into his hands, stepped up to the microphone, greeted the audience with a few humble words, then began playing. Within seconds the audience was smoothly swaying back and forth. Conti and his band opened with energetic hits like “Valley Ford” and “People Floating.” The singer's voice is melodic and optimistic, he reassures the audience with his remarks between songs and lyricism within. Throughout his discography he explores themes of wandering the open road, exploring outside and inside yourself and having faith in the future. His lyrics often reflect on his own love, family, grief and nature. He also touches on elements of nostalgia– naming street signs and ice cream flavors from his past. It is easy for any audience member to resonate with his songs and recounts of the past.
Conti's music blends indie folk, lo-fi rock, and experimental pop elements. Conti is widely regarded as an innovative voice in indie music with his simple arrangements, multi-instrumental talent and intriguing delivery. This is evident in his recent performances with Jay Som, Samia, sets at Pitchfork Paris and London. In 2025 he signed with “Mom + Pop” before releasing his single “Valley Ford,” following his third album release, “Renny Conti.”
Renny Conti began opening for Yot Club at the start of the 2026 "Simpleton Tour,” which kicked off on the West Coast in late May 2026. He has opened on numerous dates throughout the tour, including Portland, Seattle, Boise, Denver, Minneapolis, Cleveland, Detroit, Chicago, Boston, and Brooklyn. Towards the end of his set he shared that his last show was in Portland and they pulled into Brooklyn only a few hours before. Conti even shared a funny anecdote; thanking the band for dealing with his poor logistical planning– one of the Airbnbs he booked did not have running water. The band smiled and nodded, it was evident that they are a close-knit group experiencing the country and creating music as a unit.
After every song the applause grew louder and louder as this upcoming indie artist won the hearts of his audience. It is impossible to not feel uplifted, optimistic and connected after Conti’s set.
Indie folk remains a central genre in popular music today. Many younger fans are seeking music that feels more personal, acoustic, and songwriter-driven, which has helped artists find traction without major radio exposure. Artists like Conti keep the genre alive with thoughtful music and heartfelt sets with stories of life on tour around the country.
Listen to Conti’s three albums and his new single “Mona Lisa” on all streaming platforms.
Renny Conti: https://www.instagram.com/rennyonline/?hl=en
Interview by Maya Merante, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
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