Introducing Lili Chan, whose lifelong musical odyssey has taken her on a whirlwind adventure through the diverse sounds of Japan, Europe, and beyond. Her new EP, Rainbow Drops, explores the profound impact of nostalgia, uncovering how various sensory stimuli—scents, tastes, sounds, and experiences—can awaken memories from our past. We had the privilege of sitting down with Lili during her Rainbow Drops shoot to discuss the journey behind her craft and what the future holds for her.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey into the world of DJing?
A: I grew up in Japan on pop and western music and then moved to the UK to study music in Leeds and got lost clubbing in Europe. I’ve aways been a pianist and singer songwriter and really focus on emotions and connecting with people via songs. I’m fascinated by melody and lyrics and love finding a unique vibe for what I’m feeling – whether that be UKG, breaks, melodic house or techno.
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in music Lili, specifically as a Producer?
A: It’s my outlet for channelling my emotions. I don’t know a life without being musically creative in some form. I’m always writing songs or singing to myself. When Music touches peoples emotions that is just the best feeling.
Q: How would you describe your signature sound or style?
A: Always melodic, emotive, inventive. I want my music to sound familiar yet unique. I love Pop’s Instant gratification, but I also love marrying that with electronic music’s quest for invention and creativity.
Q: You’re about to release “Rainbow Drops” on Future Disco, what can listeners expect from this track?
A: A song that tries to convey a sense of wonder, of being lost in your own mind and infinite possibilities. I don’t need anything or anyone else, everything I need is right in here.
Q: What tunes are you loving at the moment? Lili’s on repeat’s let’s say.
A: Summer is here and at the moment I can’t stop listening to liquid drum and Bass in the sunshine. But if I’m DJing, I’m loving Dim Kelly’s new track Homily on all day I dream, Forester – Grow – Icarus remix and Wyn Starks – Who I Am.
Q: Were there any tracks which inspired “Rainbow Drops”?
A:-Want You In My Soul – Lovebirds (for the vibe) and Purple Rain – Prince (lyrically).
Q: How do you prepare for a live gig? Any rituals or routines?
A: I always try and rest, meditate and exercise. Stay calm and don’t eat a massive meal before I go and play! Also save my partying until after I’ve played.
Q: As an artist, what do you hope to communicate or evoke through your music?
A: Love, connection, community, inclusivity.
Q: Can you share any memorable experiences or highlights from your career so far?
A: Obviously playing Drumsheds and Fabric were amazing but for me a highlight was when I first connected with (Jaguar) when she supported my first release on Radio 1. It was such a thrill.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring DJs and/or producers looking to make it in the industry?
A: Be authentic. Make music for yourself and for no one else.
Q:How do you stay creative and inspired in an ever-evolving music landscape?
A: Quincey Jones said the beat may change but a good melody will never age. This is important for me because it gives me the freedom to create whatever kind of music I like, I just need the melody to connect.
Q: Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations we should keep an eye out for from you?
A: Apart from my Rainbow Drops release on Future Disco, I have new music coming with Hammer on HE.SHE.THEY, Hold Back coming on Colorize and a Moodymann remix coming soon.
Q: Finally, if you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
A: Four Tet. I just love his invention, his sense of Melody and the way he conveys emotion.
Lili Joins the Future Disco Family this Friday with the release of “Rainbow Drops”. Pre-Save it now and Listen to Lili’s eclectic Future Disco Radio Show to get in the mood for Friday.
Leave a Reply