Formula Indie Sessions _ Interview with XIXI
Producing music since 2018, XIXI unveiled his debut album Blue Border last January, inviting listeners into an intimate journey shaped by personal narratives. At the crossroads of melodic house and contemplative electronica, his productions carve out a sonic space where emotion and introspection intertwine.
Now, with the release of an extended version of Blue Border, XIXI deepens this exploration even further. Expanding on the album’s core themes, he refines his approach to self-analysis and contemplation, offering a more immersive and nuanced dive into his inner world. This new chapter reinforces his singular musical identity while drawing listeners into a shared experience that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
XIXI is the echo of a populated solitude, the reflection of an overflowing inner world, a rare alchemy of fragility and strength.
What is your earliest memory connected to music?
My father is a guitarist, and when I was a kid, he used to play concert DVDs on the TV. I could spend hours watching them. I would grab whatever objects were around me and pretend I was playing the guitar.
How did your passion for creating music begin?
When I was a child, I loved creating melodies in my head. When I started learning how to use my music composition software, I was finally able to bring those melodies to life, and I could spend hours doing that. Later on, I really used it as a way to express myself, since I’m someone who tends to keep my emotions to myself.
What’s the story behind your current music project?
I created the XIXI project during my studies. My artist name comes from a nickname my friends used to call me when I was a child, since my name is Alexis.
I immediately felt the need to find a musical identity, and creating a project around my music allowed me to do that. The simple fact of releasing music on streaming platforms and that anyone could listen to it felt crazy to me.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
It’s music that’s both dreamy and rhythmic, filled with nostalgia and melancholia. I like to think that people can cry and dance at the same time to my music.
What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?
The most important thing I’ve learned is not to limit yourself in creation. You have to follow your ideas through and sometimes allow yourself to step outside the standards. That’s what will make your art unique.
What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?
Lately, I’ve mainly been using analog synthesizers and far fewer VSTs. Being able to physically turn knobs and shape the sound exactly how I want really stimulates my creativity. I couldn’t part with my Prophet synth, most of my sounds come from it.
Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?
I completely fell in love with ORBIT’s latest album “Countless Feeling But So Few Words.” This guy has a unique musical signature that you won’t find in anyone else.
How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?
As I mentioned earlier, I’m someone who keeps my emotions to myself. Before discovering music, I internalized a lot. When I learned and understood that I could express myself through music, it became essential for me.
What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?
I try to create an introspective journey that allows people to take the time to analyze and understand each of their emotions. In a world where everything is a race and everything moves so fast, I try to slow down time with my music.
What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?
Music has allowed me to truly get to know myself and to understand who I was whenever I felt lost.
What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?
My dream venue would be Red Rocks Amphitheater. Such a unique place to perform.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
I’m going to cheat and give two answers, haha.
As for singers, I’d say Billie Eilish. She has a signature vocal style that conveys so much emotion. As for producers, I’d say Fred Again; he embodies everything I love in an artist and in his vision of music.
Where can our listeners follow and support your music? (Website,Spotify, IG, links)
They can follow me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/xixi_music/) or on any streaming platform! (linktr.ee/XIXIMusic)
Looking toward the future, what’s your dream for the next chapter of your musical journey?
I’m working on the live (concert) side of my project. I hope to connect with my audience beyond the digital space and be able to tour around the world.
What do you hope listeners will discover about you along the way?
I hope they can relate to my music. What I love is that everyone can create their own story or come up with their own interpretation of a song.
