PIAO is a rising pop artist known for her ethereal vocals, genre-blending sound, and emotional storytelling. Born in Shanghai, raised in Toronto, and now based in Los Angeles, she brings a global perspective to her music—rooted in personal experience and cultural identity.

PIAO broke through with her debut EP Tissues, earning placements on Spotify’s New Music Friday, Fresh Finds Pop, and Sad Hour. With standout tracks like “Haunted by Potential” and “Hannah Montana,” she has quickly built a loyal following. She has performed at SXSW, opened on Marianas Trench’s North American tour, and is now taking the stage at Head In The Clouds Festival 2025, marking a major milestone in her live performance career. With momentum building, PIAO is cementing herself as one of the most exciting voices in the next wave of alt-pop.

How does it feel to be performing at your first Head In The Clouds?
“Pretty crazy, girl. I first heard about this festival when I was in high school—then to attend it two years ago and now to perform this year is wild. Makes you think that the universe is always working and setting things up long before we know what’s going to happen!!!”

Your song “just a girl” with Stephanie Poetri just came out. How was it collaborating with your bestie?
“The song is truly the child of friendship. Steph is pookie, and it’s like… what’s pasta without the sauce?!”

Are there any artists you were excited to see this weekend?

“GD, 2NE1—duh. Porter is life as well. Super proud of 4EVE!!!! I wrote all the songs on their new project!”

If your song “flip phone” was a lip gloss flavor, what would be in it and why?
“Best question hands down!!!!! Definitely a very synthetic green apple—think Lip Smackers, Jolly Ranchers, and Dollarama roller lip oil. IYKYK.”

Do you have any pre-show rituals or routines you’ll be sticking to?

“Going nonverbal like three hours before set time—doing my makeup reallllyy slowly while listening to AITA Reddit stories.”

Is there one song in your setlist that holds a special place in your heart—or that you can’t wait for the audience to hear live?
“‘Pagingbubu.’ I get to talk about my hamster Bubu.”

What’s in your festival survival kit? What are the three things you must have on you today?
“My Sumikkogurashi umbrella, cute bandaids, and my Gentle Monsters. I could be naked, but if I have these, I’m rockin’.”

Are you a “wander around and discover new acts” type, or a “backstage only, catch me with snacks” type?
“Days when I’m not performing—an explorer.
Days I am—backstage snacks and chill.”

9. What’s your go-to hype song when you’re getting ready for a big performance?
“‘Cheerleader’ — Porter.”

If you could collab with any artist on the HITC lineup but had to switch vibes completely for the track, who would you pick and why?
“Porter. Because… Porter.

You just released the music video to your song “IMYSM.” How was the filming process, and what inspired you to write such personal lyrics like that? What does the song mean to you?
“Bubu makes it into space and becomes a messenger!!! She probably has a cute bag to carry all the messages too!!!
IMYSM is how I’ve dealt with grief the past two years—losing my childhood dog and my dad within one week of each other was pretty bad... What better way to imagine their eternity than through space travel in a hamster spaceship?”

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It’s been such a joy watching PIAO grow not just as an artist, but as a person — and getting to share this moment with her at Head In The Clouds feels incredibly special. Her honesty, humor, and heart shine through everything she does, from her music to the way she connects with fans. If you haven’t already, do yourself a favor and dive into her discography — and trust me, you’ll want to stay tuned for what she has coming next. This is only the beginning.