In the dynamic realm of electronic music, Marian Hill stands out as a duo that has successfully blended various genres to create a distinctive and compelling sound. Comprising Jeremy Lloyd and Samantha Gongol, Marian Hill has captivated audiences with their innovative approach to production and their ability to push the boundaries of electronic, pop, and R&B music.
Marian Hill first caught the attention of music enthusiasts in 2016 with their breakthrough single, “Down.” The track showcased their signature style—a minimalist yet powerful sonic landscape that set them apart from their contemporaries. With Samantha Gongol’s sultry vocals paired with Jeremy Lloyd’s intricate production, “Down” became an anthem, propelling Marian Hill into the spotlight.
Marian Hill first caught the attention of music enthusiasts in 2016 with their breakthrough single, “Down.” The track showcased their signature style—a minimalist yet powerful sonic landscape that set them apart from their contemporaries. With Samantha Gongol’s sultry vocals paired with Jeremy Lloyd’s intricate production, “Down” became an anthem, propelling Marian Hill into the spotlight.
Following the success of “Down,” Marian Hill continued to explore new sonic territories. One notable collaboration that showcased their versatility was “oOo that’s my type,” featuring Yung Baby Tate. This track not only highlighted Marian Hill’s production prowess but also demonstrated their ability to seamlessly incorporate different vocal styles into their music. Yung Baby Tate’s dynamic presence added an extra layer of energy to the song, making it a standout in Marian Hill’s discography.
Another gem in Marian Hill’s repertoire is the track “Back To Me,” featuring Lauren Jauregui. This collaboration saw the duo joining forces with the former Fifth Harmony member, resulting in a mesmerizing blend of electronic and R&B elements. Lauren Jauregui’s soulful vocals complemented Marian Hill’s production, creating a track that resonated with fans of both artists. “Back To Me” showcased Marian Hill’s ability to collaborate seamlessly with other talented musicians while maintaining their distinctive sound.
Since their rise to prominence, Marian Hill has continued to evolve and push the boundaries of their musical style. Their albums, including “Act One” and “Unusual,” reflect a commitment to experimentation and a refusal to be confined by genre labels. Fans can always expect the unexpected from Marian Hill, as they weave together elements of electronic beats, pop melodies, and R&B sensibilities.
In the ever-evolving landscape of music, Marian Hill has solidified their place as innovators, crafting a unique sonic identity that captivates listeners around the world. From the breakout success of “Down” to the dynamic collaborations in tracks like “oOo that’s my type” and “Back To Me,” Marian Hill continues to leave an indelible mark on the electronic music scene. As they navigate through different genres and collaborate with diverse talents, Marian Hill’s journey promises to be a captivating exploration of sound and creativity.
1-Where did you come from and where are you based now, and why?
Samantha – We both hail from the suburbs of Philadelphia, and are now based in New York. Although I was in-between apartments when covid hit so I unintentionally ended up back in the Philly suburbs for most of this past year. Wild.
Jeremy – Started in the Philly suburbs because my dad was a music professor at Haverford College. Been in NYC since 2013 because my parents met here and it’s the greatest city in the world. 🙂
2-Why did you guys moved to Los Angeles?
Samantha – I have not yet moved to Los Angeles though I always threaten.
Jeremy – I like visiting LA for a week or so, and having a packed schedule. But I love walking everywhere in NYC and having a quieter life that isn’t 100% music industry all the time.
3-Is Marian Hill still a duo, and what is the meaning behind the name?
Samantha – Marian Hill is still very much a duo. Jeremy and I played opposite each other in an eighth-grade production of the Music Man. He played Harold Hill and I played Marian Paroo. We combined our character names to create Marian Hill.
Jeremy – When we came up with the name we did not entirely consider that we were branding the rest of our professional lives. But I’m not mad at it.
4-Who inspired you to pursue your music career?
Samantha – My parents were big influences and supporters from an early age.
Jeremy – I grew up surrounded by music. I credit my parents for encouraging me to learn violin at a super young age and always creating an environment where artistic pursuits were encouraged. They were always at the piano and singing and it was the easiest thing to sing along.
5-Could you talk about your experience working with Lauren Jauregui and how the song came together?
Samantha – Lauren is the best. Back to Me came together fairly quickly- Jeremy and I had written the first verse and Lauren recorded her part in Jeremy’s then Brooklyn apartment in a few hours. I miss performing it together!
Jeremy – The coolest part was Lauren showing up with her verse already written – but we hadn’t heard it yet! The first time we heard it was when she recorded it. And she absolutely killed it. I love Lauren dearly and making music with her is always a joy.
6-How do you see the music scene that you are in right now?
Samantha – It feels limitless honestly. I’m inspired by what’s being created and the artists that are just constantly raising the bar and pushing boundaries.
Jeremy – It’s certainly an interesting time – the height of the streaming era in a post-covid world – I’m really excited for the next paradigm shift. We came up in an era when mp3 blogs shaped culture and iTunes sales were the holy grail… Everything’s changed so much in just a few years and I’m so curious to see where it will all go next!
7-What is the message behind oOo that’s my type, and who masterminded the music video?
Samantha – Mitch DeQuilettes came up with the idea for the video. We’d worked together previously on the Was it Not a music video, and were excited to collaborate again. We want people to feel so hot when they listen to the song. Untouchable. 0 capacity for bullshit. And with the video we thought it would be fun to subvert the typical choice. Instead of the “hot guy” maybe choose the quirky one, or the grandma.. or the dog.
Jeremy – Couldn’t have said it better myself. Mitch is an incredible collaborator and he kept me 100% part of the creative process even though I wasn’t vaccinated yet and couldn’t participate in the shoot.
8-What are you completely over and done with?
Samantha – lol. So much. Construction in the city.
Jeremy – Uncomfortable clothes. There is always something more comfortable that looks just as fly. Cannot believe how many years I spent in skinny jeans and dress shoes.
9-What memory do you just keep going back to?
Samantha – The last concert I went to in New York before covid stopped the world. It was a Moses Sumney concert- he was incredible, and I really miss live shows.
Jeremy – My 30th birthday party – I had just moved in with my girlfriend in a beautiful new place and we had all my favorite people over to celebrate. We had no idea it was the last time we’d see each other indoors for over a year.
10- What is your favorite TV show?
Samantha – ooo. Schitt’s Creek atm. If I’m not Moira in 30 years I’ve done it all wrong.
Jeremy – Tuca & Bertie!!!! Bojack Horseman is one of the top 5 greatest shows of all time and T&B is such a worthy successor from the same creative team. The scoring and sound design is absolutely out of this world good. And the vision is so unique while covering more true-to-lifematerial than any show I’ve seen. A++
11-What’s the most ridiculous argument you’ve had?
Samantha – Haha. The meaning of having your cake and eating it too. I just can’t get behind it.
Jeremy – Sam. If you eat your cake, you no longer have it! It’s in your belly! You can’t eat it again 🙂 Sam and I have definitely had a few, I wish I could remember…
12-What’s the biggest lesson life has taught you?
Samantha – That the best laid plans are futile.
Jeremy – The most important skill to practice and hone: understanding what is actually worth getting upset about and what is not.
13 -Which message do you have to your fans and people who are following up on your work?
Samantha – We know we’ve been pretty dormant this past year, but we’re putting out our third full-length record this fall. It’s called Why Can’t We Just Pretend, and we’re very excited for you to hear it.
Jeremy – I’m more proud of it than any record we’ve ever made. It’s mature, bold, raw, and beautiful. We can’t wait for you to hear it.
14- What is next for Marian Hill?
Samantha – In addition to our third record, we’re going on a mini-tour in September. I cannot wait to see our fans in person. ❤
Jeremy – Tour will be wild. I will probably cry a lot.
That is it for now, see you guys on tour, until next time.
The Hollywood Six 
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