Belfast, Northern Ireland-based DJ/producer Billy Gillies returned alongside Welsh singer-songwriter Betsy for ‘Fair’, just a couple weeks ago. The track, which already proved to be a viral fan favorite around the world via a series of popular TikTok videos has taken off even more, quickly becoming the producers most liked singles. This one followed last year’s ‘DNA (Loving You)’ ft. Hannah Boleyn, which proved to be Gillies’ biggest success thus far with more than 100 million worldwide streams and over 100 million creations on TikTok to date. We had the pleasure of chatting with this emerging talent about this single, his brand new one, and a number of other topics.
Hey Billy Gillies, thanks for taking the time to chat with us, how are you doing today?
Hey I’m really good, just touched down in Magaluf for a sold out show at Mansion Mallorca tonight so I’m buzzing to be here, played here a few times last year and it’s always great energy so let’s go!
Let’s kick things off with your brand new single ‘Fair’, how happy are you for it to be out now?
I’m absolutely delighted to finally get it out, it’s been one of my most requested tracks to be released and the feedback I’ve had from it so far has been amazing.
The single is almost like a homage to the uplifting era of trance, is that something you aimed for or did it come as you were making the single?
Trance is where it all started for me and it will always hold a big place in my heart. When I heard the Betsy vocal I knew I would do something amazing with it. The project just flowed and I’m really happy with the outcome, I have a huge trance fan base and wanted to bring out something for them, as that’s where my music career started and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. So a special thank you to all my loyal fans.
This single follows on from the massively successful ‘DNA’, did you feel any pressure to follow up on that single with another hit?
I definitely felt the pressure with the follow up. With DNA being my first original release on Atlantic Records, I never really knew what to expect with it and didn’t expect it to go as big as it did. I’m still on a buzz with how successful it has been. For me it’s never been about making “hits,” that will always be a massive bonus. For me it’s about staying true to my sound and making music I enjoy whether it’s underground club music, trance, house, techno or anything in between.
Speaking of ‘DNA’, when creating it and getting it ready for release, did you have an idea on how big it might be?
I knew it was going to be a big hit in my dj sets but I never would have imagined it going as big as it did. I think it will definitely go down as a dance classic.
That single, along with your new and old releases, all seem to have a slightly different style/vibe to them, how important is it for you to be as dynamic as possible with your releases?
Yes I love to be as diverse as possible with what I produce. For me it’s all about stepping outside the box, keeping an open mind and experimenting while staying true to what inspires me, that’s what keeps it fun in the studio.
You’re heading on the road to play a number of shows, what is it like for you to step on stage and the crowd recognise your singles?
Honestly it is the best feeling in the world hearing the masses sing back a track or even just chanting back the melodies. For me this is something I’ve always dreamed of and I have to really pinch myself sometimes. I don’t think it will ever really feel real. I feel so blessed to be in this position. Sharing my music with different audiences around the world is something I’m very grateful for.
What is the one tune that you must play when performing?
There are quite a few but over the past couple of years, “Lagoon” has been a track I have always included in my sets as the reaction that one gets every time is just crazy. I actually have something special coming with an amazing singer on it. It’s a perfect summer track so keep your eyes peeled on that!
Thanks for taking the time to speak with us, do you have anything else you’d like to say to our readers?
Just want to say thank you for taking the time to check out this interview. Also a massive thank you to all my loyal fans around the world. I wouldn’t be where I am today without you’s. Keep an eye out for more releases this year, I have got a lot more amazing music to share with yous all.
