Artist To Watch
Meet MaxiMax, The DMV’s New “Problem Child”
MaxiMax is a rising Virginia-raised artist born in Washington, D.C. After thinking he would be a ball player, he transitioned to pursue his love for music. When he was young, his father was murdered, and later, his brother was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. These traumatic events led the talented musician to street life, ultimately deciding to step away from it to push for his music full-time. His new record, “Problem Child,” highlights the dynamic experiences of the young emcee growing up in the inner city.
His label Everybody Eats Label started back in 2021. They have dropped strong hits like “EBE Freestyle” and “Street Lights” before moving on to even bigger records. “Problem Child” is the first single of his forthcoming album, Pressure Makes Diamonds. Before his new album, he sat down with us to discuss his plans, new album, and much more.
Check out the new interview here!
Introduce yourself to the world that does not know who you are yet.
MaxiMax lives in effect from Alexandria, Virginia.
Your new tape is solid; what is your favorite record off the album, and why?
Soundtrack to My Life. It perfectly embodies where I am in my life and career. It’s the perfect balance between a crank and an in-depth look into my mind and emotions. The beat also goes wild. shout out to Juu2x.
What do you want fans to take from your new effort?
I want my fans to get to know me as an individual, not just as an artist but also as a father, son, brother, and husband. My music is my innermost thoughts brought to life, so I want fans to get to know me and relate with me. Music has been the catalyst to my most significant moments in life and the therapist for my most incredible hardships, so I want to bring the same experience I have gotten from my favorite rappers to my fans.
Where are you from? Also, how does your city help shape your sound?
Alexandria, Virginia. We’re the underdog in the DMV but have the most competitive music scene: real artists, MCs, Lyricists. We have the classic gritty street vibe that the DMV gives you while at the same time bringing to the table a more refined and crafted sound. That being said, I’m a game student, so when it comes to our local music scene in the DMV, I’m sharp to everything going on with the sound. I take what I like combined with the outside influences that have constructed my sound and viola.
Who are some artists that influence your creative output?
Drake and Future. 2 of my favorite artists of all time. Then, of course, my top 5 are 2pac: Biggie, Nas, Hov, and Em. I’m a big fan of the classics. On the flip side, I have a lot of newer influences like Durk, Baby, and Thugger, all of which push me to get into the studio and try things I never would have thought of. Rylo is another big one. He’s my current favorite rapper of all time, so you’ll hear a lot of influence from him in my music. The Michigan guys move me as well. You can listen to many hints from Babyface Ray, Veeze, GT, Icewear Vezzo, and Peezy in my music. Deebaby from Texas is another huge one for me currently. I’m a real live hip-hop nerd, so that I could go on forever about my influences.
What is your goal with music in general?
My five-year goal is to win a Grammy for Rap Album of the Year. Overall, I plan to have a long-lasting presence in the game; I’ve always felt as if I’m destined to go down with the greats.
Who are some of your dream collaborators?
Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, And Jhene Aiko. I’d love to work on the hip-hop end with Drake, Future, Lil Durk, Rylo Rodriguez, Babyface Ray, Veeze, GT, Baby Money, Icewear Vezzo, Yo Gotti, and Rick Ross. I could go on forever; I love music.
What are your plans after this project?
I want to keep working and pushing myself to the next level. I know the possibilities in this industry and life are limitless, and I’m always excited to see what’s next in store for me.
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