STORE MIX 124: ALICE LONGYU GAO

Not every artist can say they’ve been co-signed by Lady Gaga, but after cementing themself as a unique voice within the realm of hyperpop, it’s no surprise Alice Longyu Gao has been recognised as one to watch. Born and raised in China, now practicing art globally, this multidisciplinary talent first made their start DJing and soundtracking runways.

Foregoing a traditional single debut record, Longyu Gao released a debut trilogy of EPs, consisting of High Dragon and Universe; Let’s Hope Heteros Fail, Learn, and Retire; and Assembling Symbols into My Own Poetry, continuing their maximalist mechanical sound alongside elements of live instrumentation. Known for incredibly infectious choruses and one-of-a-kind perspective, Longyu Gao is the original artist and main creator for the viral hit track Gnarly by global girl group Katseye. They hope to practice art till the very end, and they hope to continue to invent the future.

Now, as the Lunar New Year approaches, LN-CC and Marshall collaborate to release this year’s limited edition Emberton III, for the year of the Fire Horse, and to join in on the celebration, Alice Longyu Gao has partnered with us to create their own Store Mix. We spoke with the artist about their artistic journey, creative approach, and gained insight into their mix.

You started out DJing in New York. What did you learn early on from that experience that has influenced your own music?

Nobody sounds like me and I sound like myself. Even if I don’t belong, I belong to myself.

Do you have any highlights from your time soundtracking runways?

I was making adjustment edits in my Ableton until 5 mins before the show started.

Best track to open a set with?

LoveKGirls remix by dj g2g and PZZS

https://open.spotify.com/track/50EaFn7229y7hVF51avRuj?si=83e727735eed4c70

Best track to close a set with?

Take Me To Paris (unreleased) - Lana Del Rey.

What were you listening to growing up?

Ryoji Ikeda, Visual-kei, J-Pop, Takarazuka stage troupe original soundtrack.

Can you talk about the decision behind having a debut trilogy, as opposed to a singular album statement?

Because there is no textbook for my artist's life. I need and I want to have as much time as possible, so I can practice.

How would you say your sound evolved across the trilogy?

I made new musician friends such as Danny Brown, Oli Sykes, underscores, etc. Their work inspires me and I am glad that we were able to collaborate for my debut trilogy.

Last year, you released your double single TURN UP THE MUSIC VOL. 1, which featured two rowdy bangers, including LSFG 2025. Will you be bringing this energy into 2026?

Girls be ambitious.

As it’s the Lunar New Year, do you have any memories tied to the celebration?

Good kids give their red pocket money from grandparents, uncles and aunties back to their parents – “Let mom and dad save them for me.” I don’t, I spend them all.

What music comes to mind with the Lunar New Year?

八方來財·因果 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoNH1HJr0OQ

How is the Store Mix inspired by the Lunar New Year, and where should it be heard?

Sounds from the moon, for those living in the dream.