“And in every beginning dwells a magic,” wrote Hermann Hesse — and it’s true. That subtle magic that helps us move from one chapter to the next. The magic of childhood might be the most special one of all — when the world still sparkles, everything feels infinite, and life itself seems made of light. Keeping that sense of wonder as we grow up is hard, almost impossible. But sometimes, music brings it back — for a few seconds, a few notes, a few lines that remind us of who we once were.
“As I grew older, I started to feel that the world was losing its sense of magic,” says Belgian singer Idyl — and her words couldn’t describe her new single ‘Illusion’ any better. Carried by her beautiful voice and great writing, the track captures that bittersweet moment between childhood and adulthood — when the comforting illusions fade, and reality quietly takes their place. Yet through it all, Idyl holds on to hope. The French language brings that magic even closer — making the song feel playful while bringing out its most beautiful nostalgic undertones.
Produced by Simon Le Saint, ‘Illusion’ opens the world of her upcoming EP ‘Naïve’ — set for release in early 2026 — a poetic, introspective project that explores disillusionment, empathy, and the courage to keep dreaming. Between folk, pop, and subtle electro textures, her music finds beauty in sincerity and strength in vulnerability.
We sat down with the talented artist to talk about the story behind ‘Illusion’, growing up, and the importance of empathy in today’s world.
photography by Simon Vanrie
Do you remember the moment when that feeling first surfaced — when you realized the world’s magic was beginning to fade?
Yes, actually I was quite young when I realized it. Sometimes, when I didn’t have school, my parents would take me with them to their workplace. Very quickly, I noticed there was a certain contrast: the silence, the minimalist décor, the restrained way of speaking. You understand that something feels odd without being able to put it into words. I was just happy to go back to school!
Where and when did this song come to life? Do you have a special place where you like to be creative?
In my teenage bedroom. (laughs) With a guitar that I was given during my adolescence — though I never became a guitarist, even if the ambition is still there! I originally wrote it in English. And when I had people listen to it (much) later, I was advised to rewrite it in French to see how it would sound, and because my project was starting to take shape in French. Well, I love the direction it took just as much!
The track is out of your upcoming EP. The EP title “Naïve” suggests both innocence and sincerity. What does “naïve” mean to you in this context?
Naïve in the most literal sense of the word. Basically, I’m someone who takes things at face value. I had to learn to read between the lines and take some things with more distance. As I grew up and entered the working world, I had to protect myself from that naïveté. Because I approached it thinking it was just a continuation of school and learning. But in reality, you’re faced with colleagues of different ages, their own realities, values, new codes, a boss — and less and less room for mistakes. Everything has to be relearned. This time it’s real life. In the end, it was a privilege to be in my little student bubble! Except that most of us aren’t prepared for that.
“As I grew older, I started to feel that the world was losing its sense of magic.”
Let’s go back to your beginnings. How did your path toward music begin? And which instruments do you play?
I took my first steps in discovering music by learning music theory from the age of six. At the same time, I took piano lessons and then choir classes. But it was later that I realized I truly loved it!
Your music blends country pop, folk, and electro-pop. How did you discover these directions for yourself, and how did you find your own sound within them?
I grew up with a huge musical diversity! At home, we listened to everything from classical music to Seal, Phil Collins, and even film scores like Vangelis. But what really caught my attention was the sound of the guitar! So I have to admit, the ones who really won me over are the Cyrus sisters (Miley and Noah). They also blend all these styles without choosing just one, and I was captivated by their tone of voice and their sincerity. And of course, the one and only Tracy Chapman! For the more country side, I really love First Aid Kit!
You’re bilingual and sing in both French and English. Do you have a preference for one language over the other, and does it feel different when you sing in each?
I don’t have a preference. Both languages have their own character and convey a unique emotion when singing. But in my opinion, you often need fewer words in English to express the same thing as in French. On the other hand, French has something more poetic about it.
In your songs, you touch on themes like boredom, abandonment, and hope. What kind of personal connection do you have to boredom and abandonment?
I’m someone who can get bored quite easily, unfortunately! In my songs, I talk more about a vision of life that becomes a bit dull as soon as we become “adults”. And often we drift away from our friends, who we can end up losing touch with. I can experience that as a form of abandonment (on both sides, of course) — even if it’s not intentional, sometimes life just goes that way.
What illusions did you have about the music industry before you stepped into it?
A lot of things! (laughs) I really had no idea what was behind it all — both the positive and the negative sides. All I can say is that it’s so important to have the right people around you and to learn to listen to yourself! Build confidence and don’t be afraid to say no.
“It’s so important to have the right people around you and to learn to listen to yourself. Build confidence and don’t be afraid to say no.”
Is it through your art that you keep dreaming — that you hold on to the possibility of a better world?
Yes, absolutely! It’s what allows me to explore the field of possibilities. Through art, we can raise awareness, bring people together, communicate, inspire, or even support listeners through a tough time. And I’d love for my music to play those roles as well.
How do you see the role of empathy and solidarity — two values you mention — in today’s world?
I truly believe it can save lives! Social media has its downsides, but I feel like there can be real listening and support within the community you build. I’ve seen so many followers contribute to fundraisers for complete strangers, helping them avoid the worst!
On your Instagram page, it says you’re an introvert. How do you recharge your batteries so you feel ready for the world again?
I’ve become quite the homebody. (laughs) As a singer, it’s a job that involves a lot of meetings, events, long studio days, shoots, or rehearsals. And on the other hand, you work a lot from home during creative periods. You don’t always realize that your whole life revolves around music — but it’s still a job. So I had to find a balance and take breaks sometimes so I wouldn’t lose myself in work. So yeah, I’m also a big fan of cinema, sports, and manga!
The last movie you saw in the cinema? And what’s one of your all-time favorite films?
The Black Phone 2 because I really like horror movies. I have several favorite films and it’s hard to choose! But if I had to pick just one, it would be Back to the Future!! The actors are so talented and the soundtrack is just magic!
What were your dreams as a child — what did you want to become?
A lot of things too haha! First I wanted to be a lawyer to fight against injustice, then a journalist, and later an archaeologist. And finally, the wonderful profession of being a singer. (smiles)
And if you could send a message to your younger self — the “child” you sing to in “Illusion” — what would you say?
It won’t be easy — many times you’ll wonder why you’re doing this, and many times you’ll question all your choices. But every time, it will only take one single event, one encounter, one message to confirm that the path you’re taking is the right one. So hang on, because it’s really worth the ride!
Listen to Idyl’s ‘Illusion’ on Spotify
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www.instagram.com/idyl_hic
