Pillows’ Music is Equally Melodic and Upbeat

Pillows is a rising singer-songwriter, producer, and DJ who is currently based in Los Angeles. She produces chilled-out dance tunes that can ease the listener’s minds right away. Her music is melodic, soothing, and snuggle-ready, and her tracks can also energize public settings such as nightclubs, pool parties, and international music festivals. Her tracks have obtained millions of streams on many streaming platforms and they featured on prestigious record labels such as Spinnin’, Revealed, Monstercat, and ChillYourMind. On July 23, Pillows released a rework of Mary J. Blige’s R&B hit single, “Real Love” (check out the lyric video below).

Pillows’ version of “Real Love”, which also features Rino, is a song that will motivate each person to get through whatever difficult situation they are encountering. The smooth vocals from Pillows merge alongside house beats, upbeat drops, and melodic hook. “Real Love” is Pillows’ seventh release in 2020 and it follows her recent single, “Walkway“. Pillows’ “Real Love” is now available to download and stream via Parametric Records. Here is One EDM’s exclusive interview with the rising star whose tracks can equally calm down nerves and excite feelings.

Kenny Ngo: What was it like reworking Mary J. Blige’s hit song “Real Love”?

Pillows: When I was a kid, I used to listen to Mary J. Blige’s “Real Love” all the time. Re-working and putting my own new-age spin on the track brought back so many memories and took me back to such a fun time in my adolescence.

Did you have any songs from Mary J. Blige that you really liked back in the day?

Definitely! I used to jam out to “Just Fine.” I used to love that track (still do)! I also love “Family Affair.” It’s impossible not to bop your head to that beat.

Why did you decide to create your own version of “Real Love”?

I actually met Mary J. Blige at a party in LA once. She was incredibly sweet and cool. I told her how much I loved her work and admired her as an artist, and she invited me to take shots with her! I was blown away, I mean, she’s the Queen of Hip Hop Soul! That experience always stuck with me, so creating my own version of “Real Love” was kind of like my own personal way of paying homage to her for being such a rad artist and cool person.

What are the significant differences between your version of “Real Love” and the original composed by the chart-topping R&B star?

The original “Real Love” is a true R&B/Soul track. I took the track and turned it into a proper dance-pop song with faster BPM. I did keep all of the original lyrics as well as some of the elements and balance. Furthermore, I think my version is a little less melancholy with a more hopeful, chilled-out dance vibe. Perfect for a snuggle.

Can fans expect new music coming out from you this year or next year?

I have a lot of new music in the works! I’m gearing up to release my cover of “No Scrubs” next on Parametric Records. I have more covers and original singles in the pipeline as well.

Electronic music superstars such as Hardwell, The Chainsmokers, and Oliver Heldens have praised your musical talent. How does it feel to receive recognition from top producers like them?

I feel super honored and can’t believe they started supporting me at such an early stage in my musical journey. I feel extremely lucky to be able to work with such big dance music mainstays and to have their support, musically and professionally.

What was your most favorite and least favorite show and/or festival that you performed at in your career so far?

My favorite performances have been at Omnia San Diego. The crowd is so welcoming and always ready to turn up. People are there to have fun and the fans are really dance music savvy. Sometimes I drop crazy songs I discover into my sets, and people somehow know them. I love a good party, and I hope we can have an epic pillow fight when we return to Omnia again!

Did you have any plans or tours scheduled before COVID-19 occurred?

I was supposed to start a new residency at Omnia San Diego in March, which was cancelled at the onset of the pandemic. Sadly, subsequent concerts and festivals were also postponed or cancelled soon after.

If the pandemic ends today, which nightclubs in Los Angeles do you recommend people to check out?

I would recommend Exchange in DTLA (Downtown Los Angeles), and Academy or Palladium in Hollywood. I had the best times there!

Where do you want to travel first next year once everything gets better again?

Somewhere tropical, or somewhere in the Mediterranean where I could do a DJ set at a pool. Like St. Tropez or Mykonos. I love destinations where I can relax in my onesie, get some sun, and slip out for a fun party.