Houston-born and now Los Angeles-based musician DE’WAYNE is confidently establishing himself at the intersection of rock, funk, soul, and alternative pop. Renowned for his electrifying performances that blend emotional urgency with an undeniable physical presence, he stands out for his ability to bridge diverse musical traditions while delivering a distinctive and personal voice. In July, he released his powerful third studio album, june, through Fearless Records, marking a bold new era defined by sonic expansion and introspective storytelling. This summer, the Vans Warped Tour returned to Long Beach for its thirtieth anniversary, attracting large, multigenerational crowds to the city’s shoreline park. The lineup not only celebrated the festival’s legacy acts but also showcased innovative artists redefining the contemporary landscape of alternative music. DE’WAYNE’s presence in this lineup highlights this exciting shift, positioning him at the forefront of where the festival has been and where contemporary alternative culture is heading.

During his Long Beach performance, DE’WAYNE delivered selections from june, including recent singles “Sundays” and the album’s title track. The material explores themes of personal reflection, love, identity, and resilience, presented through arrangements that lean into rhythm-driven rock, incorporating elements of funk and melodic pop. His live delivery emphasized clarity in message and emotional directness, supported by a band whose pacing and transitions allowed the songs to expand without losing structure. The set highlighted DE’WAYNE’s role as a vocalist and front person who controls the stage through movement, vocal dynamics, and audience communication, rather than spectacle.

The performance showcased significant cultural relevance, particularly in the context of the music industry. Historically, artists of color have faced substantial underrepresentation in the lineups of major rock festivals, limiting the genre’s diversity and richness. This situation highlights the critical importance of events like the Warped Tour, which not only showcase various musical styles but also serve as essential gathering places for alternative communities that promote inclusivity and diversity. DE’WAYNE’s inclusion in the 2025 Warped Tour lineup marks a positive step forward for the rock genre, reflecting an essential movement toward greater representation. The enthusiastic reception in Long Beach underscores a growing audience interest in new rock expressions that draw from diverse musical backgrounds and personal experiences. This shift suggests a promising future for rock music, one that is more vibrant, dynamic, and inclusive than in previous eras.

Following the release of his album june, the rollout included a sold-out release show at The Viper Room in Los Angeles, followed by a busy summer touring schedule. The momentum continues with pop-up appearances throughout the rest of the year, along with more tour dates in the new year. DE’WAYNE will perform at The Troubadour in Los Angeles on December 4 as part of the Big Damn Charity Jam, benefiting Musicians on Call and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. He also has a show with The Struts on December 10 in Seattle. Additionally, he will release a new single, “Yes I Do,” featuring Leon Knight, on November 3. Looking ahead, DE’WAYNE is scheduled to perform on The Rock Boat from January 29 to February 5, traveling from Miami to St. Maarten and San Juan. He will also join Machine Gun Kelly’s “Lost Americana” tour for ten dates in June 2026.