Martin Garrix (Amstelveen, 1996) is a Dutch DJ, producer, and remixer renowned as one of the standout talents in electro house, big room house, and contemporary electronic music. He also owns the record label STMPD RCDS.
Martin Garrix’s music has been a fixture in Ibiza for over 12 years. He first shared the stage at Ushuaïa with Avicii, and now, more than a decade later, Martin Garrix commands his own residency on the island, delivering unforgettable summer nights to thousands of fans.
Chatting with Martin Garrix
How many seasons have you been in Ibiza?
I’ve been DJing here for 12 years now. My first international show was on the island in 2012.
What does Ibiza mean to you?
Ibiza feels like home, a truly significant place where I’ve had many unforgettable moments. My parents live here, which makes it even more special, and I’m always relaxed and ready for my shows.
How does it feel to be on the enormous stage at Ushuaïa Ibiza, DJing ten metres above ground, surrounded by lights, lasers, giant screens, and special effects?
It’s surreal to perform in such a spectacular and iconic club; it’s very special. I feel a surge of adrenaline and excitement every time I get on that stage.
What’s the difference between your early days at Ushuaïa Ibiza and now?
There were fewer mobile phones; people danced more, generally. I didn’t have my own night or residency back then as I was a supporting act at Avicii’s party. Still, I appreciate both times as they represent my growth as an artist. Production now, both at Ushuaïa Ibiza and Hï Ibiza, is incredible, with a noticeable leap in visual effects, sound, and staging.
“Ibiza feels like home”. (Martin Garrix)
How’s your international tour going?
It’s amazing. I have so many shows and travel constantly, but I get so much energy from it that it’s worth it. I love playing new music and experimenting with innovative ideas and mixes. The Ibiza show is unique; it’s a stage designed exclusively for my performances at Ushuaïa, which is an added motivation.
What do you prefer: festivals, clubs, or other types of parties?
I really enjoy festivals for the production, the fireworks, and the different crowd. But I also love clubs where you can play longer, more varied sets. I’m interested in any kind of live performance.
For King’s Day in the Netherlands, you throw a huge party in your Amsterdam penthouse.
It’s a very special day in the Netherlands and in Amsterdam, where everyone’s celebrating, and there’s an event or performance on every corner. That day, I host a party at my place with friends and guests, with music and fireworks.
Has electronic music changed much in the last decade?
In recent years, it’s become more spectacular with more special effects. Personally, I prefer music with more groove, emotion, melody, and vocals. There’s a part of electronic music I don’t like as much, but in today’s global dance scene, there’s room for everything. I do my thing, and others do theirs. I am particularly drawn to electronic music’s collaborative spirit, which brings so much variety.
“My style is now more electronic pop”. (Martin Garrix)
What’s the idea behind this show?
It’s like a concert; nearly all the tracks I play are ones I’ve produced or co-written. I’m a producer as well as a DJ, so I aim to keep a fast pace for two hours and energise the crowd with high energy.
How would you define your style?
My style is now more electronic pop. My music always has melodies because, for me, that’s what gives it emotion, and there are beautiful songs. I have more aggressive tracks too, but my style within today’s electronic music is more melodic.
The audience doesn’t dance as much as before; they’re more focused on recording videos and taking photos on their phones. How do you feel about this phenomenon as an artist?
I don’t believe people are dancing any less. Maybe during the intro of my show, they’re recording, but after that, the crowd dances a lot. In general, I think it’s a new experience and may mean there’s less enthusiasm for dancing.
Do you see yourself as a DJ, producer, or global artist?
I feel great whether I’m performing on stage or in the studio. I write all my songs with my guitar, create the beats, rhythms, and mixes to play at shows.
You’ve collaborated with U2, Dua Lipa, and other prominent artists. Were these collaborations as a producer or a DJ?
As a producer. Working with U2’s Bono and The Edge was incredible; it was magical to work with such legends in the studio. It was an indescribable, thrilling, and rewarding moment as an artist, a unique experience. And with Dua Lipa, who’s one of the biggest pop artists right now, it was fantastic too.
“It would be amazing to meet Paul McCartney or Coldplay”. (Martin Garrix)
How do you see the present and future of electronic music?
I think we’re in good hands. There are amazing producers like Fred and pioneers like David Guetta, Tiësto, and the legendary Daft Punk, who I hope will make a comeback. The fact that so many artists collaborate, with back-to-back sets and other formats, means we’re living in a unique moment in electronic music. Production is more accessible, which pushes me to give my best but also allows others to do the same.
What projects are you working on now?
I’m producing new music and collaborating with different bands, as I love guitars, and I’m currently influenced more by rock. My work in the studio is intense but fascinating; I do what I feel with total freedom and experiment a lot.
Will artificial intelligence change the way we create and listen to music?
For me, music is about connection and emotion. The use of technologies like AI in music is a bit daunting, but I think it will be regulated in some way because that’s necessary. In my view, people can distinguish between something created by a human and by technology. We have interesting times ahead, but we need to find a balance to maintain artistic creativity.
“I’m currently influenced more by rock”. (Martin Garrix)
What do Martin Garrix dream of?
Everything. I’d love to collaborate with many artists; it would be amazing to meet Paul McCartney or Coldplay. And one day, I’d like to do fewer shows and spend more time in the recording studio. It’s my true passion.
How can the industry survive with platforms like Spotify, among others?
I think vinyl will make a comeback, and production will increase, even though it’s the opposite of streaming. I’m not sure where it’s heading, but I’ve seen its evolution over the past ten years, and it’s impressive, so who knows how it will change? I wish I could predict where the industry and music are going.
Martin Garrix’s footprint
In a world where electronic music continues to evolve at lightning speed, Martin Garrix stands as both a pioneer and a passionate artist. His dedication to crafting unique sounds, combined with his genuine love for Ibiza and its iconic stages, speaks volumes.
As Martin Garrix looks toward new collaborations and musical exploration, it’s clear that his journey is far from over. Martin Garrix remains focused on one thing: sharing his passion for music with the world, one unforgettable show at a time.
