Hey Mr DJ
If there was an ideal example of the electronic dance music fantasy, it would have to be Martin Garrix. What makes this Dutch DJ so awesome is his inerrant spunk to be himself. We caught up with him to chat about his amazing rise.
What’s up, Martin?
Hey, all good thanks!
Fourth time in India. How would you describe your experience here?
I love India! The fans are so dedicated, and I love the vibe here. Also, dance music is getting bigger and bigger here, which makes every gig even more fun.
Can you give us a little hint as to what we might see and hear during your set at TIMEOUT 72 in Goa?
It will be a mix of old classics and some new music. Also, I love to experiment a lot and support upcoming talent.
You’ve become an authority on electronic music at such a young age, where did this inspiration come from?
I learned to play the guitar at a young age; it helped me with understanding different chords. I have to say back in the days I was a bit of a computer nerd. After seeing Tiesto (Michiel Verwest) playing at the Olympics, I downloaded a music program on my computer and messed around for a long time. I loved the creative part that I was able to make, that was exactly what I wanted to hear.
What keeps you occupied when you are not creating music?
That doesn’t happen a lot since I’m busy with music 90 per cent of the time, but if I’m not I like to hang out with friends and family and visit cool places.
What are three locations, places, events around the world where you would most like to perform?
That’s a very difficult question. I’ve performed at so many amazing locations, but I would like to do a solo arena tour all over the world, that’s still on my bucket list!
How did your relationship with David Guetta work for you?
David is like a big brother for me, he is such a nice and understanding person. It’s always nice when you can share your biggest passion with someone you can really get along with.
You have had a busy, nonstop season – how do you stay healthy and sane? Do you try and eat well and do sport or anything?
I try to watch what I eat and that I get enough sleep. Also, I have some amazing people around me who help me out with this.
As an artist, what is your approach to your sets? Do you prefer longer showcases or shorter festival sets?
I like both actually! I think the diversion between different shows in length, atmosphere etc. make it special and different every single time.
Anything else you’d like to share with your fans?
Thank you so much for supporting me. I appreciate you guys!
After seeing Tiesto playing at the Olympics, I downloaded a music program on my computer and messed around for a long time.
Quickfire questions
If I wasn’t doing what I’m doing now, I’d be eating pizza.
My favourite hairstyle I always rock messy hair.
If I could swap hair with someone for a week, I would swap it with David Guetta’s hair before he cut it. Don’t think it would look good on me, but would be funny to try for a week (haha).
The quote I live by work hard and never give up.
The best piece of advice I’ve received from my parents, they really taught me to do what I love to do, I think this is the best advice you can get.
My New Year resolution is to keep doing what I love the most.
If there is one thing that I can change in the world, I would end wars.
Now That I've Found You with John and Michel
Please note that this interview took place before TIMEOUT 72.
From the January 2018 issue of FHM India.
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