MORE ABOUT ILI

ili is a Scottish multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, and performer who has been captivating audiences across the UK since the age of 9. Formerly known as Emily Middlemas, she first rose to prominence as a finalist on The X Factor in 2016, where she finished in the top four. Since then, ili has grown into one of the UK’s most exciting new voices, blending heartfelt storytelling with striking vocals and an authentic online presence that resonates with fans worldwide.

Her music has earned recognition from icons including Shania Twain, Willow Smith, The Jonas Brothers, Kylie Minogue, and RAYE. A platinum-certified songwriter, ili has penned hits for global stars such as K-pop group NMIXX, Polish superstar DODA, DJ/producer Ummet Ozcan, and Naomi Jon. She also co-wrote Switzerland’s entry to the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest and has already achieved No.1 success in Poland, as well as platinum certification in China.

This year marks a huge new chapter, with ili starring in the Netflix reboot of The Winx soundtrack. Alongside this, she is preparing for her biggest artist project yet: a brand new EP set for release in early 2026, beginning with her October single “Mean To Me”.

With over 350,000 followers across social platforms, playlist support from Spotify (cover star of Fresh Finds), BBC Introducing Track of the Week, and praise from BBC Radio 1 (“We are witnessing the birth of a superstar”), ili is solidifying her place as both a breakthrough artist and songwriter.