Concert Review: DE'WAYNE Brings Love, Heart, and Rock to Philadelphia

The City of Brotherly Love is alive and well, filled with a warm energy as I stand at the corner of Chestnut and 11th Ave. The popular two-story music venue and bar, Milkboy, is illuminated in red lights as the after-work crowd begins to trickle in. Milkboy is a staple in the Philly music scene, garnering talent from near and far, and tonight its stage is set. On the second level, fans stake their claim at the front of the stage for the show. The talented Red Leather is headlining the evening on his 'Put It All On Red Tour.' But at this moment, as the clock strikes eight, our attention is on the exciting and captivating artist DE’WAYNE, set to kick off the night. 

For those who might not be familiar with the name, allow me to introduce you to this rock star without boundaries. DE'WAYNE is a multifaceted talent: a singer, songwriter, and musician making waves out of Los Angeles. Growing up in Spring, Texas, his musical foundation was shaped by his time singing in church and by the hip-hop scene. But it wasn't until he moved to LA, at the age of 19, that he was introduced to the world of rock. He has been releasing music since 2016, creating quite a catalog of music ranging from a string of singles to a compelling EP and two studio albums, Stained and My Favorite Blue Jeans. Over the course of his career, you can clearly define an evolution of his work. His earliest material was rap-influenced, then shifted to a more pop-punk feel in his second album. However, DE'WAYNE's newest album, june, set for release on July 30, 2025, with three songs already out, marks his entry into the rock realm. With intriguing hints of funk, soul, and jazz, he creates a foundation that promises to take fans on an exciting and freeing journey, one we are excited to see here tonight. 

From the moment DE'WAYNE weaved his way through the crowd and onto the stage, there was a presence about him that was undeniable. Wearing light denim bell-bottom jeans and a black long-sleeved shirt accented with a white collar and cuffs, it spoke volumes of vintage cool, accentuated with gold necklaces, a black studded belt, and black boots. He kicked off the night with "Lady Lady" from his anticipated new album 'june,' wasting no time winning the crowd over. He performed a seamless mix of old and new tracks, such as "Biological" and "Highway Robbery," accompanied by a cool rendition of "I Wanna Be Your Dog" by The Stooges. DE’WAYNE’s impressive vocals were on full display as his magnetic energy flowed throughout Milkboy as he moved and danced freely, making sure everyone felt seen. Peering into the crowd, he acknowledged his joy for being on stage and how he felt at ease, as tonight was his first show on Red Leathers' Tour. He gave insight into his new album, june. When asked by a curious fan who june was, he explained that june wasn't just one person but rather a culmination of all the love he has felt in his life. It represents an energy that celebrates love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, and maternal. His energy was warm and fun, laughing at himself and shaking his head at "I just want to bring a little love and chocolate to Philly"—a phrase that just came out of his mouth, yet perfectly summarizing his desire to spread love.

His set continued with high-energy songs like "june", "Home Wrecker," and "Sundays" as DE'WAYNE rocked out on stage with his talented bandmates Dominic Stepanian and Terry Craft. Dominic shredded on a pure white Fender Telecaster guitar while providing background vocals. Terry amplified the energy of the night, keeping the beat going on a sick, clear Remo drum kit. Watching the band interact, there was no doubt they were all having a blast. To see DE'WAYNE perform on stage was like peering into subtle nuances of some of the greatest rock stars that have graced the stage and paved the way for rock's evolution. Legends like Lenny Kravitz and Prince come to mind—having the same raw charisma, effortless cool, and theatrical flair, which were all present in DE'WAYNE's captivating stage presence. DE'WAYNE's journey is only going to continue, and I look forward to where it will lead him, as he is destined to leave an impact wherever he goes.