Exclusive Insight: Cil Shares Musical Roots and Dream Collaborations

Cil, the rising singer-songwriter from the United States, has opened up about her eclectic musical influences and the legendary artist she dreams of collaborating with. In this exclusive interview, the Colorado-born, Los Angeles-based artist dives into her genre-blending sound, deep-rooted inspirations, and the story behind her latest EP, don’t hold me accountable.

“I’m influenced by people and places everywhere,” Cil says, reflecting on the diversity in her music. “I draw a lot from Madonna, but also The Platters, Gary Moore—honestly, it’s a wide mix of everything.”

Despite incorporating multiple genres, Cil aims to maintain a consistent thread in her music: herself. “What stays constant isn’t the genre or a specific sound. It’s me anchoring each piece of music,” she adds.

Best known for her tracks like “One More Shot” and “Bloodsucker,” Cil predominantly creates in the soul and R&B space. “That’s the music I grew up on,” she explains. “Lately, I’ve found myself gravitating toward nostalgic sounds from the ’80s and ’90s—think Phil Collins influences sneaking in.”

When asked about her dream collaboration, Cil doesn’t hesitate: “Can I mention someone who’s passed? Because Prince would’ve been my ultimate dream collaborator.” She describes him as an unmatched creative mind and says working with someone of his visionary caliber would be a career milestone.

“I’m also curious to explore something more experimental, though I haven’t yet found the person for that,” Cil continues.

One of her favorite Prince tracks? “Purple Rain,” of course—but “Call My Name” from the 2004 album *Musicology* left a lasting impact on her. So much so that it inspired her recent song “forgot to be my lover,” featured in her newly released EP, don’t hold me accountable, launched on May 30, 2025.

“That song holds so much meaning in my life. It was deeply influenced by Prince’s ‘Call My Name,’ which I was obsessed with while creating it,” Cil shares. “It’s one of his lesser-known tracks, and when I found it—wow, it instantly became one of my top favorites.”

Working alongside producer Evan Blair, Cil crafted her new EP to reflect emotional depth and build a stronger connection with listeners. “This project was about truth, vulnerability, and pushing my sound to a place that feels truly mine,” she says.

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Cil first gained attention in 2023 with back-to-back releases that showcased her raw vocal power and lyrical sincerity. That same year, she opened for legendary artist Stevie Nicks in a major arena show, further solidifying her place in the music scene. Music outlets and critics have since praised her as one of the brightest new stars in pop and soul.

With a style that’s both nostalgic and forward-looking, Cil continues to define her path in the industry on her own terms.