"I buy everything second hand and like tiny fits now. I look for a lot of vintage brands or designer stuff, sometimes you can find a gem for cheap."
Born and raised in Vienna but now based in London, we spoke with Dirty Hit's Vanilla Jenner AKA Viji to talk creative direction, fashion influences and to get a closer look at what to expect from the Alt-pop artist in 2021.
Can you tell us a bit about what you do and where you are from?
Hi my name is Vanilla. I’m a musician and release music under the alias ‘viji’. I was born and raised in Vienna but now located in London, UK.
Who inspired you to pursue a career in music?
Music was always around and I got super into writing my own songs. There were definitely artists that I was obsessed with that had a big part in me wanting to play. Also though my older cousin was in a band and I thought it was like the coolest thing ever.
How would you describe your sound to a new listener?
Lofi hip hop drum samples, 90’s grunge guitar sounds and pop melodies. For fans of ‘Pixies’, ‘Clairo’ and ‘Blood Orange’.
Featuring: Viji, Photographer: Ben McQuaide, MUA: Laura Kate, Clothing: Fendi & Versace.
What is your favourite part of the creative process when writing new music?
I think when you’re writing a song and it feels like it’s just streaming through you rather than having to try really hard. That’s magic. Also when you’re in the studio recording and then for a moment listening back it’s your favorite song of all time.
Featuring: Viji, Photographer: Ben McQuaide, MUA: Laura Kate, Clothing: Fendi & Versace.
You released your debut EP 'Are You In My Head' last year, how did it feel to put your music out there?
So cool! It’s awesome to see what songs connect with people. No matter how many times I’ve heard them in a way they don’t exist until they are out.
You also directed your music video for 'Cherry', do you see yourself continuing to direct your videos in the future?
Yeah I love making vids. I am used to doing everything myself so shooting with directors and stuff is a new thing. I think there’s a time and place for both. I guess now I only commit to doing it myself if I’m confident I can do it. I love making BTS stuff still and actually am making one of the official music videos for my new EP myself too.
Featuring: Viji, Photographer: Ben McQuaide, MUA: Laura Kate, Clothing: Fendi & Versace.
How would you describe your fashion style and who influences your style?
I’m just coming out of my ‘baggy-everything’ phase. I buy everything second hand and like tiny fits now. I look for a lot of vintage brands or designer stuff, sometimes you can find a gem for cheap. It’s very y2k meets anime demon now, or at least that’s what I’m going for haha.
Featuring: Viji, Photographer: Ben McQuaide, MUA: Laura Kate, Clothing: Dior, Fendi & Versace.
Are there any specific artists that you would love to collaborate with?
Hmm always. I’m really into Dominic Fike atm and there’s a few artists on the label that are super sick!
What can we expect from Viji in 2021?
More. More music, more artwork, more vibes hehe. I have an EP ready to go that will come out this side of summer, and already deep into the music that will follow that.
