Billie Eilish is touring solo for the first time, without her brother Finneas O’Connell

Billie Eilish has transitioned from a teenage sensation to a fully-fledged adult, a transformation noted by her brother and collaborator, Finneas O’Connell. This shift is one of the key reasons why, for the first time, he won’t be joining her on her “Hit Me Hard and Soft” tour, except for a handful of selected dates. In the past, Finneas has always been by her side, playing guitar and providing support during her performances.

In a recent interview with Vogue, O’Connell reflected on his past commitment to Eilish’s touring schedule. “There were many years where I sort of felt like I would never miss a show because, you know, Billie was 16 or 17 and I really had this feeling of needing to be there for every minute,” he shared. He acknowledged that as Billie has matured, so has their dynamic. “The truth is,” he added, “over the last few years of touring she’s really become an adult.”

This newfound adulthood has manifested in what O’Connell describes as Eilish’s “disciplined way of existing on tour.” At 22, she has developed a rigorous routine: she prioritizes rest by sleeping through the day, dedicates hours to physical therapy, and engages in vocal warm-ups to ensure she’s fully prepared for each performance.

Meanwhile, Finneas is gearing up for his own solo venture. He announced that his solo tour, titled “For Cryin’ Out Loud!,” will kick off in February, following the recent release of his latest album by the same name.

Eilish’s parents, Maggie Baird and Patrick O’Connell, have been prominent figures in her touring life, with Baird managing everything from scheduling to ensuring Billie stays fed, while Patrick has played a role in her stage crew. In her candid comments to Vogue, Baird humorously remarked, “I will get your tampons and cook you a burrito on a moment’s notice, even if I have to use an iron to do it.” Despite her belief that having a “mom on tour” is beneficial for performers, both she and Patrick have decided to step back this time, allowing Billie to embark on a journey they view as akin to her “college years.”

However, Eilish won’t be completely on her own. She is joined by indie-rock duo Nat and Alex Wolff, who are not only her opening act but also some of her closest friends. The tour, which kicked off late last month, marks a significant milestone for Eilish, as she is also touring with her own live band for the first time, alongside some of her childhood friends.

In her conversation with Vogue, Eilish expressed her excitement about the tour, hoping that “it’s going to be the f***ing fun.” This new chapter in her career showcases her growth and independence, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating experience.