RILAN
Photo by Ryan Jerome, Writing Alex Bonnet
Rilan brings the heat when it comes to his style and music. Never sugarcoating, he writes down his lyrics in the utmost honest and raw form. When stepping onto a stage, he can feel his heart pumping and blood flowing: the stage is his fantasy world. Having gone through a hard time in 2020 as most of the world did, he almost threw his hands up in the air but luckily, persevered. Creating the world his 13-year-old self dreamed of living in has been his purpose, Rilan is an inspiration to all.
As a musician, what is one of the craziest musical concepts you have come up with?
I think the craziest thing about my music is its honesty. I don’t hide from my emotions. I don’t sugarcoat. I write them down blatantly and unapologetically. “H8me2” and “iFeel Nothing” are the names of some of my upcoming records. The imagery is even more in your face. Believe me – the craziest is yet to come.
What gets your heart pumping and blood flowing?
Performing. I feel most at home on stage. It’s my fantasy world where everything is exactly how I wish it were in the real world, and sharing it with an audience makes it real.
Describe your musical and fashion style in a few words.
I’m an undead gothic 2000s pop star sent from the past to change the future who loves Britney Spears as much as they love Nine Inch Nails. My style is a little goth, a little runway, and a lotta I don’t give a shit what’s cool or not.
Tell us about a time you “hit rock bottom” and how you climbed on out.
Probably like everyone else, 2020 was horrible for me on all levels. I was in the worst management deal of my life and forced to hide myself and my music from the world. I was depressed, broke, and overall miserable. I almost quit. But my favorite thing to do is take darkness and turn it into something beautiful. All the music that that terrible time created was worth it. It always is if you ask me.
When I say INTERVENTION, what is the first thing that comes to mind?
First, I think of the meme of that man ugly crying during one of the episodes of the A&E show. Second, I think of the bravery and strength of all of my friends who overcame and continue to overcome their addictions. They continue to be one of my biggest sources of inspiration. I’m so proud of them.
Do you believe you have found your purpose? Explain.
Yes. My purpose is to create the world my 13-year-old self dreamed of living in, be it artistically, socially, politically, and beyond. I’m just doing it one song at a time.