[Exclusive Interview] MILLI Talks HEAVYWEIGHT, HITC LA, and Life as an Artist-Athlete
A Heavyweight Return to LA
If you’ve been watching the Asian pop scene, you already know MILLI. Thailand’s powerhouse rapper and singer has built a reputation for breaking boundaries, mixing genres, and delivering energetic performances that hit hard every single time. Now, she’s back for her third appearance at Head In The Clouds LA, bringing a new album, a secret music video drop, and a whole lot of momentum.
Her second full-length album, HEAVYWEIGHT, is set to drop June 26. Add in her “MILLI TO THE RING” Muay Thai docuseries and a high-profile fight at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, and you have an artist in her prime. Before she heads to LA for HITC and takes on her next big challenge, MILLI shares her thoughts on growth, music, and what’s driving her in 2025.
Who is MILLI?
For those new to MILLI’s world, she burst onto the Thai music scene as a teenage prodigy. She’s known for her sharp lyrics, bold visuals, and fearless approach to both music and performance. With each project, she brings something new, building a global fanbase along the way.
The Interview
MILLI’s comeback this year is more than just music. She’s ready to show fans a new side of herself, on the mic and in the ring. We kicked off our chat with what’s behind her new album.
Mikan Box: Congrats on your latest single, “One Punch,” and your upcoming second album, HEAVYWEIGHT, coming June 26. What can you share about the inspiration behind HEAVYWEIGHT, and how does it reflect where you are right now as an artist?
Milli: “So, I compare myself as a boxer, starting from atomweight and gaining more experience and keep practicing till I can fight in Heavyweight. This album will give you the heavy energy in both terms of instrument and emotional. I’m glad that I know myself and sharing it through my art much more than the first album so hope you all like it too.”
Returning to Head In The Clouds LA for a third time is a major milestone. MILLI let us in on what this year means to her.
Mikan Box: This will be your third time performing at HITC LA. How does it feel to return, and is your approach to the festival any different this year?
Milli: “I’m glad to be going back to HITC this year because I will go back with my new album called HEAVYWEIGHT, lots of songs are ready to serve!”
While many artists are prepping for festival season, MILLI is also training for a real fight. Her “MILLI TO THE RING” series is showing fans a different side of her, and the support is real.
Mikan Box: You have been training for your first Muay Thai match at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, and fans are following your “MILLI TO THE RING” journey. What has this challenge taught you about yourself, your artistry, or your fans?
Milli: “If you wanna do it, just do it, do your best till you know that you won’t regret it. And thanks to all my fans that support me whatever I wanna do.”
Juggling music, fighting, and live shows takes discipline. I asked how she manages to stay grounded and keep moving forward.
Mikan Box: Balancing music, intense training, and live performances takes a lot of focus and energy. What helps you stay motivated and grounded with such a busy schedule?
Milli: “Cuz I know that all people around me will believe in me, so I do believe in myself. I want to do it so I do it and I don’t want to regret the things after. I want the result from both parts of my life to be perfect as much as I can do it so I have to put all of my effort and energy and I’m happy with that.”
Naturally, we wanted to know what song she’s most hyped to share in LA—and if fans can expect a surprise.
Mikan Box: Is there a song from HEAVYWEIGHT or your setlist that you’re especially excited to perform live in LA? Why that one?
Milli: “Yeah! MILLI is going to perform MENACE, one of the songs from the HEAVYWEIGHT album. There will be a special surprise on the HITC LA stage!”
No LA trip is complete without a classic food run or a little people-watching at the beach. MILLI shared her must-hits for every visit.
Mikan Box: When you’re back in LA, is there any food you have to get, or a place you love to visit?
Milli: “I wanna go eat In-and-out (cliché right?). I will order a double cheeseburger and hot chocolate marshmallow. And then I wanna go to Venice beach, watch skateboarding. SO CLICHÉ!”
Every performer wants to leave a mark. We asked what she hopes HITC first-timers will remember after her set.
Mikan Box: For fans discovering you for the first time at HITC, what do you hope they remember most from your set?
Milli: “I hope they feel tired from my set because I want them to dance and go crazy with me. I hope they have tons of good energy and happy fun with me.”
MILLI closed with a message for everyone cheering her on—whether in the crowd or through her Muay Thai journey.
Mikan Box: Finally, can you share a message for fans supporting you both at HITC and through your Muay Thai journey?
Milli: “Actually I would love to have the second fight though, and I am a co-founder of a boxing gym in Bangkok called Rope a Dope [Facebook Link], so if you are interested in boxing/muaythai, please come to my gym. I would love to spar with you hahaha.”
What’s Next
Catch MILLI at Head In The Clouds LA and circle June 26 for the drop of her album HEAVYWEIGHT. Watch for something special on the HITC LA stage soon, and if you find yourself in Bangkok, maybe stop by Rope a Dope and spar with her in person.
Special thanks to YUPP! Entertainment for making this interview happen and for their help every step of the way. The support from their team made it possible to bring MILLI’s story to our readers.
Follow MILLI: [Instagram] [YouTube]
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