The Dream
Folks call me Dei, Denise, and most recently Dillbilly. Since writing my first song at age 15 to impress a crush, my passion for music has grown into over 300 songs, 9 albums, and 1 original soundtrack for film. I've played my heart out across this country for over 20 years and during that time I’ve produced most of my own albums.
I’m ready to record my TENTH release and Julie Wolf, of Julie Wolf Music, has agreed to produce this record. Having a visionary like Julie on board for this project is a dream come true. Funding this campaign will allow us to make the dream a reality, bringing in stellar musicians and experienced engineers to give life to my songs in a new way.
We are excited to bring this work into the beautiful 25th Street Recording in Oakland, California and Bird & Egg Studio in Richmond, CA. We aim to to start recording in November 2018 and release the record in mid-late 2019.
![]()
![]()
The Roots
My past records were released under my birth name, Denise Dill, but when I moved to the Bay Area from Maine 5 years ago, I decided to rename my musical self. The name Dillbilly emerged and with it came freedom from the confines of gender. Moreover, it’s an ode to where I come from in Southern Indiana. It means midwestern charm, country music, farming, working class sense of humor, and the complexities of being white and queer in a red state. My values may not align with some of the most conservative parts of where I come from, but it is a piece of what shaped me and I hold responsibility for that in my music and in my actions.
When I moved to the Bay, I was introduced to phenomenal artists who have sparked new life in me creatively. From my time as “Christie McVie” in the San Francisco cover band Fleetwood Macrame, or a “jerk” in the 50s and 60s dance/doo wop band Jenni and the Jerks, to my collaboration with Anita Lofton in our folk duo Gussie and Grits, I have learned that there is no end to the possibilities of growth as an artist. Currently I’m honored to be in collaboration with members of my band that include: Rhonda Kinard, Jenni Willow Cleary, Kofy Brown, and Jesse Strauss who are some of the most talented and lovely people on this earth.
The Numbers
I am raising a total of $30,000.
Here is a breakdown of exactly where the funds will be going:
- Producer and Studio (Tracking/Overdubs/Editing/Mixing): $20,000
- Musicians: $9,650
- Piano tuning: $150
- Rehearsal space: $200
I'm really excited about some of the perks I'm offering as a part of this campaign. Early bird copies, limited edition Vinyl, voice lessons, YOUR NAME in the liner notes of the album, song requests, house shows, dinner parties, and a song composed just for you!
![]()
![]()
![]()
The Ways You Can Help
Any contribution helps, no matter how small or large. If you are not in a position to donate, sharing this campaign would be a HUGE help! Posting on social media and sending personal emails to folks who might be interested helps make campaigns like this successful.
You can use IndieGoGo's share tools to help spread the word on social media by scrolling up to the top of the page.
As a genderqueer musician and organizer, I know that community is what makes our passions possible. I’d be honored to have your support on this incredible journey. With your contributions, we can continue moving forward with pre production and start getting some dates on the calendar at the studio to track the record. I used to record my albums alone, but this album will be made through community with donations and support from all of you.
Thank you for all of your love and support now and over the years!
Musically,
D
![]()
![]()
Recognition & Credits:
Campaign Video by:
Dillbilly
Campaign Photo by:
Rhonda Kinard
Campaign Video appearances:
Rhonda Kinard
Kofy Brown
Julie Wolf
Jesse Strauss
Squeak (Mika Anami)
Jenni Willow
Mary Tilson (KPFA RADIO)
Ari Langer
Fundraising Saint and Emotional Support:
Femminary