If you ever need proof that music can transcend space, sickness, and the limits of a tiny room, look no further than DeathbyRomy’s explosive show at Local 506 in Chapel Hill last night. On May 4, the rising dark-pop powerhouse played to a sold-out crowd that packed the intimate venue shoulder to shoulder — and let’s be real, “intimate” is just a polite way of saying sweaty shoebox with a killer sound system.
But for the lucky fans who snagged a ticket, and lined up around the block for hours get in, this was exactly the kind of cathartic, sweaty night they signed up for — and DeathbyRomy delivered in full.
Shout out to my sister with the freshly broken foot riding the rail all night! You’re the real MVP!
Who is DeathbyRomy?
For the uninitiated (where have you been?!), DeathbyRomy is the musical project of Romy Flores, a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter known for fusing alt-pop, darkwave, industrial, and emo into a sound that’s haunting, visceral, and unmistakably hers. Since breaking onto the scene with tracks like “Problems” and “Kiss Me Goodbye,” Romy has built a fiercely devoted fanbase drawn to her unflinching lyrics and magnetic stage presence.
Her latest album, Hollywood Forever, marks a major leap forward — a cinematic, emotionally charged collection of songs that dive deep into love, mortality, mental health, and defiance. She’s now embarked on her first-ever headlining US and Canada tour in support of the album, with a UK run lined up for July. Buckle up, Europe.
A Night of Chaos, Catharsis, and Connection
From the instant Romy stormed the stage to the opening blast of “XXXhibitionist,” the energy in Local 506 was electric. The crowd wasn’t just there — they were in it with her, screaming every lyric back like a collective battle cry. Romy wasted no time pulling everyone into her orbit, launching into a blistering set packed with fan favorites and deep cuts alike.
Despite battling illness (which she acknowledged with both gratitude and good humor between songs), Romy’s performance was nothing short of fearless. Highlights included “I Feel Like a God,” “I Kill Everything,” and “Corpse Kiss,” each delivered with raw urgency. The pounding “Hellhound” brought a dark, almost ritualistic intensity, while “No Mercy” had the floor shaking under a mass of jumping bodies.
An Encore to Remember
As the final notes of the main set rang out, the crowd roared for more — and Romy, running on adrenaline and pure willpower, answered the call. She returned to the stage to deliver a searing encore that was equal parts exorcism and love letter to the fans who had been with her every breath of the way. It was the perfect close to a night that felt less like a concert and more like a communal release.
Why This Show Mattered
What made the Chapel Hill stop unforgettable wasn’t just Romy’s talent — it was the connection she forged in that tiny, sweaty room. There’s a rare magic in seeing an artist at this stage of their career, still hungry, still raw, still climbing. It’s the kind of show where you don’t just watch the artist — you become part of the experience.
For many fans, the night was more than just entertainment — it was a cathartic, affirming moment in a world that can often feel isolating. And Romy gave everything she had, even when she probably should have been resting. That’s not just commitment — that’s heart.
What’s Next for DeathbyRomy?
With Hollywood Forever now out in the world, DeathbyRomy is stepping confidently into her breakout era. This North American headlining run is a major milestone, and the upcoming UK tour in July promises to push her reach even further. If last night’s show was any indication, Romy isn’t just gaining fans — she’s creating a movement.
For those lucky enough to catch this tour, savor it. These are the shows you’ll be bragging about for years — the ones where you saw a future icon up close, before the arenas and festival main stages. And for everyone else? Better get those tickets fast — or risk living vicariously through TikToks and regretting it.
Final Thoughts
DeathbyRomy at Local 506 was a masterclass in vulnerability, resilience, and the power of connection. Even under the weight of illness, Romy proved she’s not just an artist to watch — she’s an artist to feel. As she heads across North America and into Europe, one thing’s for sure: the world is about to know her name — and they’ll be screaming it right back at her.