Dutch underground export Mau P is a rising star in the world of electronic dance music. His debut single “Drugs From Amsterdam” has amassed millions of streams and made him a household name across international dance floors. Drawing inspiration from his musical roots and personal experiences, Mau P’s unique blend of house and techno has been making waves. As he gears up for his Miami debut at Club Space, The Miami Guide had the opportunity to sit down with DJ Mau P and talk about his background, influences, and creative process.
Can you tell us about your background and how you got into music production?
“I actually grew up in a household of musicians, my dad was a saxophone player and my mom is a wonderful singer, so I had the luxury to have almost every instrument within reach from the moment I was able to walk. I started out on drums but that was mostly just banging and making noise, trying to create rhythms, not so much playing along with actual songs. After that I had piano lessons together with my sister but I hated that the songs we had to play were so childish. Then, when I was a teen I had my ‘rock phase’ so, on guitar I played Red Hot Chili Peppers, Arctic Monkeys, Nirvana, Paramore, you name it. Finally, my dad put a grand piano in the studio that sounded so good I had to go back to playing piano. I play mostly jazz or soul stuff nowadays. That’s actually how it all started.”
What inspired you to create “Gimme That Bounce”?
“It started out kind of innocent actually and it turned into a monster. I was just trying to make a cool beat and by some happy accident, I landed on heavy wubs and synths mixed with a classic house swing. I then let the track sit for quite some time because I didn’t know how to arrange it. When I went back into the project I found out I had also recorded my own voice talking over the beat. It was just one take but it was so perfect and well thought of somehow. I think at that moment I didn’t really know how much people were gonna relate to the lyrics but that’s probably why the vocal works. It was effortless and cool. It’s about the nine to five slur we’re all in that we wanna escape by just getting into ‘that bounce’ or ‘that beat’ or ‘that vibe’ on the weekends. Eventually, I snuck in some office sounds and samples into the production and every piece of the puzzle fell into place.”
How do you see the future of dance music evolving?
“I think these are some of the most exciting times ever for dance music. There’s a lot of barriers being broken down right now in terms of different sounds being combined and merged. Very underground techno DJs are playing tech house, commercial DJs are playing underground sounds – the rules have changed and this creates room for new ideas. I’m so happy to be a part of the current developments.”
Who are some of your biggest musical influences and why?
“Skrillex drew me into electronic music. I was and still am so amazed by everything he puts out. Also the Swedes back in 2010 made a huge impact on me with their Miami sets. Currently, I get really inspired by old school hip hop. I also listen to a lot of older jazz and funk and get inspired by the different rhythms and grooves.”
Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or collaborations you have in the works?
“As an artist and performer, I’ve always dreamed of being able to host my own headlining events at some point in my career. This year I’m hosting my very own event ‘XXX From Amsterdam to Miami’ during Miami Music Week. To have the opportunity this early on during one of the most important weeks in dance music is beyond anything I ever expected. We’ve got an amazing venue which we’re transforming into the sickest rave of the week, with a touch of Amsterdam, of course. Next to that there’s another “Drugs From Amsterdam” remix coming out soon, which is something I’m really excited about.”
What can fans expect from your performance at Club Space in Miami?
“Honestly, I don’t even know what to expect. I’ve never been to Space but I’ve heard stories about it. I just bring a very diverse collection of music and I don’t plan anything out. I just want to go on a journey together with the crowd and see where both of our energies take us to musically. I’m so hyped for it.”
Can you tell us about your creative process for DJing live sets?
“As I sort of mentioned above, I don’t have a plan. I know a couple records that always work really well and I try to flow from there. I see DJing as riding a car on the highway— the end of the road is the end of your set, where everybody has reached their destination and danced their asses off. There’s multiple roads that lead to the same destination though. Sometimes I take an exit off of the highway into a new sound and see how that feels. If it works I take that path and if the crowd is feeling something else I might try a different road.”
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians and producers trying to make it in the industry?
“These kinda questions always make me give corny answers but they’re always really true; Just do you. The ultimate situation is one where you don’t look at what anyone else is doing and in your head you’re completely free and comfortable to do whatever you want to. For me, this took me a couple of years but I wish I would’ve done it from the start. You’re gonna stand out so much more if you give the people a sound that no one else is doing. I mean you could say I make tech house but I still feel like “Drugs From Amsterdam” and “Gimme That Bounce” are songs that brought something new to the table. Find your groove and stick with it.”
It was truly a pleasure getting to know more about Mau P and his upcoming Miami debut at Club Space. From his early beginnings playing music for friends to his current position as a rising star in the electronic dance music scene, it’s clear that Mau P’s passion for music has been a driving force in his life. With his unique sound and infectious energy, he is sure to make an impact at Club Space and leave a lasting impression on those in attendance. We wish him all the best and look forward to seeing what the future holds for this talented DJ and producer.
