BIMM at Reeperbahn Festival 2025: Lilly Marie interview
Every year, Hamburg’s St Pauli neighbourhood transforms into a hub of creativity as Reeperbahn Festival takes over the area. As Europe’s largest club festival, Reeperbahn brings together established names and emerging talent from across the world, alongside a packed conference programme that connects the international music industry.
This year, BIMM students were right at the heart of it, performing, networking, and gaining first-hand experience of one of the most exciting festivals on the calendar. We caught up with some of them to hear about their highlights, what they learned, and how being part of BIMM prepared them for the opportunity.
We spoke with Lilly Marie, a Songwriting graduate from BIMM Berlin, who performed at Reeperbahn on a FlixTrain from Berlin to Hamburg. Fresh off the train, she shared what it felt like to play on the festival train, how her sound has changed since starting BIMM, and her go-to karaoke songs.
Could you introduce yourself and tell us who you are as an artist?
I’m Lily Marie. I’m currently working on a new artist name with my upcoming EP. I’m an indie pop-rock artist, originally from Hamburg but now living in Berlin.
You performed on the FlixTrain from Berlin to Hamburg – what was that like?
I didn’t really think about how hard it would be to perform on a moving train! It was literally rocking side to side, and I kept leaning into the mic. It was hectic but super fun –people enjoyed it, and I loved it. It was definitely something I’d never done before. A Canadian manager came up to me afterwards, and she was super sweet. I’d never met anyone from Canada before, so chatting with her was lovely.
How has your time at BIMM shaped you as an artist and prepared you for opportunities like this?
I grew up in a really small town near Hamburg, where I didn’t know anyone else doing music. BIMM was my first introduction to people who also wanted to work in this industry. I met my bandmates, my manager, my producer, and my best friend there – it’s just been such a great community.
Over the three years, I discovered the genre I love and really developed my sound. Looking back, the music I wrote in my first year is so different from what I’m doing now. BIMM gave me time to experiment and figure out who I want to be as an artist.
What helped you most during your studies?
The performance classes really prepared me for being on stage, and the branding and masterclasses with industry professionals helped me figure out my identity as an artist. All of that gave me confidence to perform on the FlixTrain and know what I’m doing.
Tell us about your music – how would you describe your sound now?
I play with an all-FLINTA* band, which I love because they’re all close friends. I started out more indie pop, but I’ve always loved bands like Sam Fender, Fleetwood Mac, and Oasis. Now I’ve blended pop with rock, and I feel very comfortable in that space. Lyrically, I write about life – not just love, which everyone writes about – but the small, beautiful things.
What’s next for you?
I’m working on a FLINTA* queer collective in Berlin, creating a space where queer FLINTA* artists can share a stage together. It’ll start with music but also include other art forms. I also have a duo project with my girlfriend. And of course, I’m working on my EP, which will come out at the beginning of next year – that feels like the real launch of my career.
Let’s do some quick-fire questions. First up –What was the first concert you ever went to?
I think it was Leona Lewis here in Berlin. I remember we were late because my mom had a little car accident. I was really sad that I missed my favourite song – but luckily it was the encore, so I didn’t actually miss it. The security guy even let five-year-old me go right up front, which was amazing. Don’t worry, everyone was okay –it was just a small bump on the road and we had to wait for the police.
What’s your go-to karaoke song?
I don’t do karaoke often, but when I do, it’s usually Adele. There’s an Irish pub in the town I grew up in that only had about ten songs, and I’d always pick Adele. The last time I sang karaoke was about two years ago!
What’s a dream festival you’d love to play at?
Glastonbury – of course it’s huge, but a girl can dream. I’d love to play there one day.
Which artist would you most like to collaborate with?
Phoebe Bridgers, because her songwriting is so beautiful. She writes in a way that really inspires me. Also, Sam Fender – he’s the reason I’m doing the kind of music I do now. His stage presence is amazing, and it would be such an honour to share the stage with him.
Do you have a favourite on-stage move?
I love dancing with my bassist – she’s my best friend. Jumping around and having fun with her makes me feel so confident on stage. Interacting with her is definitely my go-to move.
