Belgium-born Maxi Meraki has quickly emerged as a highly talented artist, captivating audiences with his vibrant productions and mesmerizing sets. With boundless energy and an infectious smile, Maxi immerses himself in his music, delivering an unforgettable experience to his fans. His unwavering passion, boundless creativity, and genuine love for music have propelled him to become a rising star in the industry.
Photo credit: Maxi Meraki – Facebook
Since 2019, Maxi Meraki has been making waves in the electronic music scene with his exceptional releases. His tracks have garnered attention from renowned labels including Spinnin’ Deep, Monaberry, Nervous Records, Abracadabra, and Artbat’s UPPERGROUND. Maxi’s distinctive sound and undeniable talent have earned him the support and recognition of industry heavyweights such as Jamie Jones, Claptone, Black Coffee, Solomun, Blond:ish, and Pete Tong on BBC1.
The anticipation is mounting as Maxi Meraki prepares to take the stage at the highly anticipated Amsterdam Dance Event 2023, specifically the Electronic Groove’s ADE Week Animal Rights Fundraiser. This event is scheduled for Thursday, October 19th at the Duke of Tokyo, promising an unforgettable night. Joining Maxi Meraki on stage will be a stellar lineup including Atish b2b Mark Slee, Saqib, Ivan Sandhas, Arianna Danae, and Rivellino.
Recently, EG interviewed Maxi Meraki, where he shared insights into his upcoming performance, latest projects, and future plans.
EG: Hi Maxi! Welcome back to EG. It’s a pleasure to have you here with us. How have you been? Where are you right now?
Maxi Meraki: First of all, thank you for the invitation again! I’ve just returned from a show in Madrid, and now we’re heading back to the studio. Also, there’s a busy weekend ahead with three shows in Geneva, Vienna, and closing out in Ibiza.
EG: So, ADE is just around the corner, which has us all very excited! What are your plans this time around? What mischief will you be up to?
Maxi Meraki: I’m really looking forward to reuniting with some of my DJ friends whom I haven’t seen in quite some time. Additionally, I’m excited about finally meeting some of the artists and individuals within the music scene whom I’ve been conversing with for a while, but our paths always seemed to miss each other in the various cities where we perform. And, of course, it feels like it’s been too long since I last visited Amsterdam!
EG: And, of course, you’ll be a part of our ADE Week 2023 Fundraiser, which will take place on Thursday, October 19th, seeking to raise funds for AnimalRIghts.NL! What can we expect from your performance?
Maxi Meraki: For this year’s ADE, I’ll present a mix of my own ‘classics,’ along with some new tracks from some of my favorite artists, as well as some of my new track IDs that I can’t wait to share with you!
EG: Speaking about playing…What track has been doing the rounds the most in your recent sets? Why?
Maxi Meraki: There’s a new release I’ve been working on for some time now and has been in my sets for some months… Can you guess which one it is for the party on October 19th?
“For this year’s ADE, I’ll present a mix of my own ‘classics,’ along with some new tracks from some of my favorite artists”
EG: What’s an epic collaboration track you would play at this year’s ADE?
Maxi Meraki: Well, it’s been the collab of the year for me – a collaboration between two of my all-time favorite artists: &ME and Black Coffee with their magnificent ‘Rapture III’.
EG: Speaking about tracks and music…. rapid-fire round!
– Current Favorite Banger… Camelphat, Rhodes – Home
– Musical Pet Peeve… People pushing in the DJ booth.
– I hate it when DJs… Play to hard at an opening / early slot.
– I love it when DJs… Take the time to talk (mostly) after their show.
– Guilty pleasure track… Armand Van Helden’s ‘I Want Your Soul’
– When I’m not sure behind the decks, I reach for… Tequila seems like a wrong answer here. Let’s go for a deep breath!
– Your favorite music memory is when… People text you the day afterward thanking you
EG: What are three essential items you always carry in your DJ bag?
Maxi Meraki: Second USB, Painkillers, and Sunglasses.
EG: Amsterdam’s well known for its coffee shops – if your music was a marihuana strain, what kind would it be?
Maxi Meraki: The one that makes you euphoric. I heard it’s one of a very addictive kind!
EG: What’s your go-to pre-gig ritual or lucky charm that gets you in the groove?
Maxi Meraki: It depends on whether there was an early flight involved or not. Mostly, I’m happy with a good pre-dinner and a shower before the show. Oh, and a double espresso shot!
EG: Finally, what’s the one thing you’re most looking forward to at Electronic Groove’s ADE Week event this year?
Maxi Meraki: The free food? (Haha) Let’s go for meeting new and upcoming artists!
Maxi Meraki is set to perform at Electronic Groove’s ADE Week. Get your tickets here.
Follow Elif: Website | Soundcloud | Spotify | Instagram | Facebook