5 Song I Love w/ Lilo

Following the release of her latest single 'You're Coming Over' we caught up with London-based pop artist Lilo to find out more about what influences her eclectic sound. If you enjoy Lilo's picks be sure to check out 'You're Coming Over' at the end of the article.

1. Only You - Yazoo

"I think this is one of the best songs of all time. From the dreamy chord progression,

the descending melody at the end of each line, there scattered synthy sounds panned to

sound all around you, it drew me in from my very first listen several years ago. The synth-

driven ballad creates a dreamy, enchanting soundscape, offering a calming effect when I listen to it, even though the lyrics talk about longing and desire. In turn, the song reminds of me those I’m missing - maybe my boyfriend, my family etc, however it’s resolving chord progression and soothing melodies make me feel at peace.. a reason I often go to listen to music."

2. Ceilings - Lizzy McAlpine

"I hadn’t fallen deeply in love with a new song for a while.. then Lizzy McAlpine released ‘Ceilings’ in February of 2023. Lizzy takes the listener on a journey, creating an intimate soundscape which carefully grows and transforms into a massive, ethereal world. However

unexpectedly, the track lyrically plot twists at the second pre-chorus. She sings of her love; someone she holds close and makes her feel otherworldly warmth until the truth is revealed and this blissful love is not reality - ‘but it’s over, and you don’t exist’. The vulnerable and honest lyrics give me chills. I love how her voice is breathy and gentle - it creates an intimate and confidential atmosphere, further pulling the listener in. Her harmonies are effortless ear candies throughout. As tension builds and builds lyrically, so does the texture of the instruments. This takes the listener on a journey that a lot of current mainstream music doesn’t. Lizzy is an incredible songwriter; this track introduced me to her and enabled me to explore her other incredible work."

3. Grace - Jeff Buckley

"This song was given to my class to study for GCSE Music - meaning we listened to it a lot in class.. once introduced and immediately addicted to this song, I began asking our teacher if we could put it on again and again. It was the only song of the 10 we studied that I couldn’t get enough of. The melodies, particularly ‘my faded voice sings of love, but she cries to the clicking of time’ are breathtaking. They are immediately followed with a playful response melody from strings. It’s contrasting yet perfectly complimenting sections take the listener on a musical and emotional journey, accompanied by ambiguous and uncertain lyrics. They are introspective and almost definitely about love and longing, however, there are several different takes on their true intent. I find it deeply saddening that Jeff passed away so young with such unfathomable potential yet unexplored."

4. Through The Echoes - Paulo Nutini

"I discovered this song as I was first falling in love; and now it makes me tear up with nostalgia when I listen to it. Paulo’s voice is magical; so pure yet so rugged, so silky yet so rasp. The simplicity of the chorus makes it immediately catchy, easy and undemanding which I think represents a healthy, pure relationship. It shouldn’t be complicated, it shouldn’t be hard to understand.. it should be clear and it should be calm. The lyrics remind me of the conversations I have with my boyfriend; me talking a bit of nonsense, curious at the world, expressing it naively and unfiltered; him grounded, patient, open and willing. My safe space. This is what this song means to me. It’s about your someone being there for you always - to listen, to comfort, to love. The song has hints of melancholy and yearning, however, the overriding feeling I believe, is honest and secure love."

5. Physical - Dua Lipa

"I don’t think any other artist does dance pop these days like Dua. Her songs are energising, immediate and overflowing with hooks and ear candies. This song got me through lockdown summer; it gave me endless enthusiasm and motivation (also a great workout song at 147bpm). The woodwind instrument sings it’s crafted melody to kick off the anthem; then the beat kicks in. Dua always nails concise, immediate hooks starting right from the very first line - ‘Physical’ being a prime example of this. Common love isn’t for us’ captivates the listener instantly and the consistent licks and riffs keep them engaged till the end. I particularly love the bridge. It’s the climax of the song - texture thick, pitch peaking.. energy bursting.. overall an energy-infectious song."

Listen to Lilo 'You're Coming Over'