Hackney songwriter Millie Turner is gearing up for a top summer – fresh from releasing her new single ‘Swimming Pool’ (“it’s about rebellion, liberation and then escapism”), she’s taking her understated pop gems to a number of festivals over the next few months, including Barn on the Farm, which she’ll play alongside Maggie Rogers, Lewis Capaldi and more.
Hey Mille, how’s it going? What are you up to at the mo?
Hey! I’m currently taking a quick rest from shooting an official video for my new song, ‘Swimming Pool’.
When did you first realise you wanted to make music?
It wasn’t ever a goal; it kind of just happened. I’ve always loved playing the piano, and my sisters and I used to sing a lot together, but it never left my bedroom. I never would’ve dreamt of sharing anything with the world. But I’m so glad I have. It’s been a big deal for me.
Is being a musician everything you hoped it would be?
Not at all, it really came as a surprise! The best surprise. But I’ve definitely always wanted to do something creative, and be able to share it in some way. I never had the confidence to share anything, so to think I have come all this way is a bit crazy.
What would you most like to achieve during your music career?
I want to be able to create something that both connects with and inspires people. And at the same time really experiment and explore ways I can do this through all creative platforms, whether it be music, film, art, etc.
What’s the best song you’ve written?
I don’t think there is a possible answer for this; it’s hard to compare things that represent different points of myself. But I definitely say ‘eyes on you’ was a song that really resonates with me, just through honest the lyrics and the meaning was at the time. It’s something which I think stands out above a lot of my other songs. But overall I think they all tell a different story which is hard to compare.
Are you creative in non-musical ways too?
I’d like to think so! Art is something I’ve always been passionate about, before I was ever into music. I’ve really tried to incorporate it and involve it in my music. Writing as well, when I was younger, I wanted to be a writer, which has really helped to articulate what I really want to say in my music.
What do you do for fun?
Everything and anything apart from playing video games, I suck at that.
You’re playing Barn on The Farm soon, have you been before?
No, but I’m really excited to see what it’s all about though! Maybe I can give you some tips afterwards.
Are you going to hang around to see other acts while you’re there?
Absolutely, quite a few upcoming acts I’d be curious to check out.
What makes a good festival, do you think?
For me, I don’t mind if I don’t know the people performing. There’s something nice about discovering people without any expectations. At smaller festivals, it can feel a lot more intimate and personal, which I think music should be. You end up discovering a lot more.
Who’s the most exciting band or musician around right now?
Billie Eilish hands down, she’s really mixed things up.
What else have you got coming up?
I have lots more releases which I’m working on at the moment, including ‘Swimming Pool’ which I’m so excited to share with the world, as well as getting ready for summer festivals!
Millie Turner plays Barn on the Farm (4th-7th July) and more this summer.
