Billie Eilish, the enigmatic pop sensation, has graced the cover of Rolling Stone for the third time, and this time, she takes us on a wild ride into her latest album, “Hit Me Hard and Soft.” In this exclusive interview, Eilish reveals candid insights, quirky facts, and hidden gems that didn’t make it into the cover story. Let’s dive in!
1. Almost Called “Patheticville”
Before settling on the album title “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” Eilish toyed with the idea of naming it “Patheticville.” Inspired by a gem dropped by Kelly Kapoor in “The Office,” Eilish found the title fitting for the themes explored in her third record. As a longtime fan of the show, she laughed and wrote it down, knowing that the perfect title would eventually emerge1.
2. Lana Del Rey Homage
Eilish’s admiration for Lana Del Rey runs deep. She cites Del Rey as a major influence on her career, and when conceptualizing the album cover, Eilish drew inspiration from Del Rey’s iconic music video for “Blue Jeans.” The underwater imagery pays homage to Del Rey’s aesthetic, and Eilish hopes to create her own video that echoes the same vibe1.
3. “The Greatest” Saves the Day
“The Greatest,” a track written during a toe injury, holds a special place in Eilish’s heart. It serves as the “black hole center” of the album, shaping the rest of the songs around it. This five-minute heavyweight culminates in rock & roll euphoria, showcasing Eilish’s vocal prowess and emotional depth. Without a doubt, it’s the beating heart of “Hit Me Hard and Soft”.