Meet Lillvi, 90s-inspired electronic side of singer songwriter Lillvi Agnarsson. After growing her moniker for only a few years ,the UK artist goes beyond the confines of pop music in order to heavily emphasize imagery and mood by exploring the depths of synth pop, 90s influences, and uptempo dance floor music. “Down With You” is the latest single from her debut self released EP incorporating dark and captivating electronica elements for those late night drives popularises appealing 80s drum rhythms recently utilised by artists such as Weeknd, Lady Gaga, and Dua Lipa. Lillvi's latest offering combines the aroma of an elusive nightclub with a contemporary take on modern electro pop, displaying her ability in a range of genres, and it is nothing short of a musical sensory experience.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
Hey Lillvi, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What drew you to the music industry?
I believe I was always creative, and music just spoke to me! It also appears to be one of the most powerful and simple ways to express yourself creatively! I also grew up surrounded by music, so it came naturally to me.
How do you balance your time in the studio with other commitments such as a part-time job, family, education?
Well, I'm studying songwriting and production at the world-renowned Tileyard Music and Education facilities, and my studies and career coexist, so I'm very fortunate in that regard. Music is something that is always around me; it never feels like I have to make a decision, which I am grateful for.
Your latest song is 'Down With You'. Can you tell us more about the making of it and if there were any unusual things happening during the process?
Because I was experiencing anxiety and insomnia during the recording process, this song really put me to the test. The song was written and recorded in Digbeth, Birmingham, where my long-term producer also records and produces with me. Initially, we had the beat made and I took it with me to listen to on the way back to London, but I was feeling sad that day and sleep deprived. The music was originally much softer, and I wrote the lyrics and melodies to it, but we went back and recorded the vocals and layers for the entire song. My producer then recreated the song to include the power sax solo as well as more driving hard hitting elements like the bass. We ended up with a completely different vibe than where we started, which is interesting.
What are your songs about?
My songs tend to have no boundaries, however I tend to be a rebel and create stuff that has more of an edge while not following traditional songwriting formula. I dont want to write a ballad or pop song like everyone else, I want it to sound rough or unorthodox. I've always enjoyed writing stories and poems since I was a child, and being able to combine that with music was and continues to be amazing. I feel like it’s evolved a lot over the years, but I’ve realised that there is no right or wrong way to write a song, and it’s a practise like anything else; the more you do it, the better you get. No two songs are alike, and it also depends on what stage of your life you’re at that adds colour to a song. Sometimes it takes 100 bad songs to get one great one, but I believe the best songs create themselves.
What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?
I honestly don't know; I suppose I'd do music in some capacity or something creative. I've always been fascinated by human behaviour, so I could be a therapist or do something else social.
How do you know when a work is finished?
I understand when I have nothing else to say or add. It's hard to put into words how you feel when your work on the song is finished. Its not like a plumber or builder who carries out job knowing when the job is complete. Creating songs requires imagination and creativity is subject to taste. The same with writing a book or creating film how do you ever know if something is completed.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of music?
I enjoy reading and have recently begun to write fantasy on an amateur level for fun lol. Who knows, maybe one day I'll have a number one best-selling book, anything is possible.
When were you generally fulfilled in your position as an artist?
When I believe that people understand it, they listen to it and generally enjoy it. There is nothing more satisfying.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
You don't have to conform or fit in; just be yourself and do what feels right. Ideas are limitless, but don't sacrifice yours for someone else's opinion or you'll end up going in circles.
What are your plans for the future?
Keep realising more music and do more live performances.
Yes, I intend to release new singles throughout 2023, with the goal of releasing an album or EP. The priority right now is to be consistent with music and live performances to come. So far, this single has received a positive response, and I believe things will continue to improve throughout 2023.