What are the most meaningful songs to siblings Olivia Hardy and William Gao of the alternative pop-music duo Wasia Project? In our “Milestone Mixtape” series, we ask musicians to create a playlist of songs that mark important moments in their lives — from first favorite songs to coming-of-age songs and more. Wasia Project visited the Character Media office to make their own “Milestone Mixtape,” listing songs by Chappell Roan, The Beatles and even some of their own music.
Olivia Hardy and William Gao are Chinese British, hence the name Wasia Project, which references their mixed heritage. They released their first EP, “how can i pretend?,” in 2022 and now have over a million streams on Spotify. Their newest single “Takes Me Back Home,” releases tomorrow, July 11. Starting in September, Wasia Project will embark on its North American tour, playing several sold-out shows across the U.S. and Canada.
Here are all the songs that Wasia Project loves. Be sure to watch the full video above, and read our feature with Hardy and Gao to learn more about their musical journey!
First favorite song?
Hardy: “Hey Jude” by The Beatles
Gao: “Mr. Blue Sky” by Electric Light Orchestra
Song that reminds you of your childhood home?
Hardy: “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
Gao: “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen
Song that inspired you to start writing music?
Hardy: “Bundle of Joy” by Michael Giacchino
Gao: “Here, There and Everywhere” by The Beatles
Coming-of-age song?
Hardy: “Heroes” by David Bowie
Gao: “Sunflower” by Rex Orange County
Song that makes your heart stop?
Hardy: “When The Party’s Over” by Billie Eilish
Gao: “Lover Boy” by Sophie May
Song that got you through a hard time in your life?
Hardy: “Like a Tattoo” by Sade
Gao: “Go Easy, Kid” by Monica Martin
Summer song?
Hardy: “Buffalo Soldier “ by Bob Marley
Gao: “Move On Up” by Curtis Mayfield
Song that you couldn’t stop listening to on tour?
Hardy: “Good Luck, Babe!” by Chappell Roan
Gao: “Starburster” by Fontaines D.C.
Song that reminds you of each other?
Hardy: “Vienna” by Billy Joel
Gao: “My Future” by Billie Eilish
Song that you most enjoyed writing with each other?
Hardy: “My Lover Is Sleeping” by Wasia Project
Gao: “My Lover Is Sleeping” by Wasia Project
Find Wasia Project’s full “Milestone Mixtape” playlist below!
