Hailing from London, Max Dean is a self-taught DJ/producer who made a remarkable entrance into the music industry at the age of 22. With a passion for crafting his unique sound and a collection of unreleased tracks, Max has garnered support from artists worldwide and is poised to make a lasting impact in the music game.
Photo credit: Max Dean – Facebook
Max has quickly established himself as a rising star in the industry, with releases on renowned labels like Solid Grooves and Repopulate Mars. Through his talent as a DJ, producer, and label owner, Max has proven his dedication and skill.
Beyond his solo career, his passion for music extends to his platform neXup. Through the label he is committed to showcasing and supporting emerging artists.
EG had the privilege of interviewing Max Dean, exploring his latest release, ‘KILLERZ’, the launch of his own label, neXup, and his future projects. This interview provides valuable insights into the artist’s artistic journey, his creative process, and his perspective on the current trends and challenges in the industry.
EG: Hi, Max! Welcome to EG. It’s a pleasure to have you here with us. How have you been? Where are you right now?
Max Dean: Thank you for having me on! I have been very well! Happy and healthy! I am very grateful for life at the moment! Currently in Australia.
EG: First of all, congratulations on the success of your latest single, ‘KILLERZ’! Were you expecting this kind of fanfare? How are you feeling with the initial reception?
Max Dean: Thank you! You are never really sure what to expect when you release music! I was definitely very happy with the response and extremely grateful to all the people who are buying and streaming the record!
EG: So, what’s ‘KILLERZ’ all about? Is there an emotional trigger for this one? What specific themes and ideas did you explore during its creation?
Max Dean: This track was one of the first tracks I made after coming back from the Ibiza season last year, so it was definitely inspired by those peak-time DC-10 moments. I’ve always listened to old-school hip hop, and I’m a massive fan of Mobb Deep; the sample was from their record ‘Shook Ones’, and I grabbed one of the first lines they said in the track. As soon as I heard it, I thought I could definitely put a little spin on it using that short snippet of the sample. And here we are!
EG: And now, you’re behind the launch of neXup recz, your own label, with the release of the ‘neXup recz: NX-GEN’ compilation. What can fans expect to find on this VA? Why did you decide to go with a compilation as its first release?
Max Dean: The whole ethos behind neXup is to push the next generation. So, doing a VA felt right as I can instantly start to promote a large group of artists who I feel are making incredible music.
“The whole ethos behind neXup is to push the next generation”
EG: Why did you feel the need to have your own imprint? What kind of music can we expect from neXup recz in the future?
Max Dean: It was the next step for me. I’m really enjoying the process of building neXup and bringing my visions and ideas to life. Music-wise, I wouldn’t say we are going for a strict sound, just good music that is current and represents and highlights the artists who release with us.
EG: And you’ve just had two neXup record day & night launch events spread across two of London’s most prestigious venues, 93 Feet East and E1. What was that experience like? Any personal highlights?
Max Dean: The whole day was just unbelievable; at both shows, I just took a moment to absorb the energy and appreciate what was happening. A little idea I had came to life with the help of all my friends and family. It was a very special day not only for me but for the whole neXup family. We are only just getting started!
EG: On to current issues, how do you feel about the increasing use of AI in the music industry?
Max Dean: I don’t think AI is the problem. I think it’s the people who are using it that are the problem. You can use AI in many great ways. However, there are people out there who are using it to cut corners and spoil it.
EG: And what do you think about the current trend that has seen these larger-than-life visuals take center stage? Are they overwhelming the musical aspect instead of just “enhancing” the musical experience?
Max Dean: For me, I think it’s great that people are creating new experiences and finding ways to incorporate mega production into the music and club scene. If you’re not into that sort of thing, then simply don’t attend. However, I do think we are moving into a time of new technology, and it’s important to be innovative and create new user experiences.
“It was a very special day not only for me but for the whole neXup family. We are only just getting started!”
EG: What’s next for Max Dean? What new milestones are you looking forward to now?
Max Dean: Well, I’m really looking forward to touring Australia and Bali right now as we speak. We are also planning another neXup UK tour. Then, I will be touring the USA next March.
EG: Thank you for your time, Max! We’re excited to see what’s in store for you. Take care!
Max Dean: Much love, guys! Thank you
Max Dean ‘KILLERZ’ is now available via BOX RED. Stream and download here.
Follow Max Dean: Spotify | Soundcloud | Instagram I Bandcamp
