Daniela Di Lillo is better known as her stage name “Nora En Pure” has become the pinnacle in the industry for Deep House. She has curated her Purified shows featuring the likes of Pete Tong, Gorgon City, Kidnap, Moonwalk, Eelke Kleijn, and Sonny Fodera. We had a chance to interview Nora En Pure before her Purified show in Montreal.
Interview
CR: Where did your name “Nora En Pure” come from?
NEP: I had to pick a name when I first started putting my tracks out there and I just wanted something that was a little different from what was out there at the time. The ‘Pure’ in it definitely relates to my sound and the organic instruments and sounds that I use in my productions.
CR: With your Purified podcast at Episode 167, which guest DJ would you bring to the decks next?
NEP: I like to display the sound of the line ups, so in that episode, I featured more music of these DJs. I play quite diverse music on my radio show too, but often feature acts like Yotto, Rüfüs Du Sol, Lane 8, Claptone, Bob Moses and also a lot of smaller acts. So anyone along those lines would be very welcome on the decks :)
CR: We know this question has been asked many times, but which one do you prefer more club events or Festivals and why?
NEP: I genuinely love them both. Club nights are much more intimate, you feel the sound and energy much more than at festivals. Then again festivals can be so much fun too. Curated stages usually have cooler crowds to play to as they are more into that specific music and the big stages blow you away just because they are so large. I think no matter where I play, as long as the crowd is feeling it, I am happy!
CR: In your tracks, there is a lot of relaxing and chill melodies, where does the inspiration of that come from?
NEP: It's simply the music I most connect with and the inspiration comes from nature, wildlife and I try to take the listener away on a journey, taking a break from everyday stresses.
CR: We have seen you play different venues in Canada; Which venue would be the most memorable one?
NEP: I think my favourite is Coda in Toronto. Or obviously Shambala was also next level. In general I actually always have a good time in Canada, people really know their music.
CR: Congratulations in order, for receiving the IDMA award for the best female artist of the year!! What advice would you give to the young female producer that is trying to get into the industry?
NEP: Thanks! I find this topic a little tricky because I don’t believe there should be separate awards for different genders - while it's probably made with the intention to help the females, I think it's also counterproductive. Ideally, people should be judged on their music regardless of their gender. I do think things are beginning to change in a positive way. My advice to any young producers trying to make it in the industry is… be yourself. Find your sound and hone in on it. When you have it, make sure you stay firm and believe in it. There are way too many DJs or producers out there that sound the same, so try and not be influenced by what is popular or what others are doing.
CR: What do you like to do during your downtime other than producing music?
NEP: I love photography! My ideal day when I have some time off is to go have a hike in the mountains with my dog and my camera. I like to be out in nature and just have some time away from computers, social media, stress, etc.
CR: I know DJs/ Producers travel with multiples of that one item, what is that item for you?
NEP: I have several pairs of in-ear headphones. I always listen to music or watch something to fall asleep in the planes. I hate the surrounding constant noise in planes and absolutely need these to get rest.
CR: We have been asking this question to every DJ/Producer, what is the one must-have item on your rider in the green room?
NEP: My drinks are usually vodka with the yellow Red Bull or a Rosé if its early in the morning for my body clock ;-) I often have fresh fruits as well. All these things aren't must-haves though, they are just nice to have :)
CR: Do you have any pre-show rituals? Is it any different from Festival vs Clubs?
NEP: I just like to have a drink before, catch a bit of the vibe may be, check out the stage or set up. I don't like to get in last minute and have to rush straight to the booth.
Here are some of the latest releases she worked on, check them out!!
Also check her latest Purified podcast!!