Get To Know: ILIA
- 58 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Emerging artist ILIA sits down with Curious For Music to discuss his latest release, a striking reinterpretation of Halsey’s “Gasoline,” blending cinematic intensity with raw, alternative energy. Known for his intuitive and visceral approach to songwriting, ILIA channels emotion over calculation, embracing both vulnerability and authenticity in every note. In this interview, he reflects on the challenges of self-doubt, the evolution of his sound toward more anthemic and epic textures, and his mission to create music that moves listeners in a desensitized world, without losing sight of his artistic independence and personal vision.
Welcome to Curious For Music! Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your latest release?
I was always a fan of Halsey's debut record, Badlands. Gasoline was one of my favorite tracks off that record so I felt it would be cool to do my own interpretation of it while honoring the foundation of the original.
What was the creative process like for this project?
Visceral and intuitive. When writing music or doing a cover, I don't really have everything mapped out initially. I adhere to a sense of flow. I prefer to be a vessel and channel in a manner that is unobstructed.
How does this new release differ from your previous work?
I feel there is a thematic cohesion to all the songs. If I were to isolate discerning variables, I would probably state the obvious and say this one differs because it's a cover. The execution and performance still honors my alternative and cinematic inspirations.
Were there any particular challenges you faced while making this music?
Same challenges I always face, thinking my work sounds horrible half the time and that I should probably scrap it. I try not to be my own worst enemy but that battle is inevitable. I usually opt to just release as soon as possible so I don't start over-tweaking everything.
Did you collaborate with any other artists or producers on this project?
I did not. I do everything.
What message or emotion do you hope listeners take away from this release?
I never have an expectation of what I want people to feel when they listen to my music. All I really care about is that they feel something. We live in such a desensitized climate and my hope is there is still some room left to feel moved and inspired.
Is there a story or concept that ties the songs together?
No concept or story, just bound by the same goal, to be raw, authentic, and present.
How has your sound or style evolved on this release compared to your earlier work?
I would say the latest EP has more of a cinematic/epic/ballad quality to it. It's probably the most anthemic of the 3 EPs I've released in the last year.
Is there a track in your music discography that feels especially meaningful to you?
What makes it stand out. Charlatan is probably one of my favorites. I was quite proud of how it came out. I think it stands out from the other tracks because of its heavier sound and execution.
How do you plan to share this release with your audience? Are there any upcoming performances, videos, or special projects in the works?
The video for Gasoline is available to watch on Youtube, and the song, including all others, is available to stream on DSPs. I'm currently working on new material I'll be releasing in the spring along with a new video in May. Performances should follow shortly after that.
This artist was sent to us via Decent Music PR
