'Work really hard on improving your sound.'
'Try to get as much people as possible to listen to your music.'
Martijn Gerard Garritsen, popularly known as Martin Garrix, was eight years old when he watched DJ Tiesto perform at the 2004 Olympics.
Tiesto's music inspired Garrix to pursue music production. A few years later, Martin was discovered by Tiesto.
In 2013, Garrix, still a teen, released his solo Animals. The track made him a known name in electronic music.
The 22 year old, who has over 16.2 million followers on Instagram, has been ranked among the top 100 DJs in the world in 2016, 2017 and 2018.
In 2016, he founded Stmpd Rcrds (pronounced Stamped Records), through which he promotes new talent.
'Artist. First. Always', he said while launching the record company.
"Music is always changing and nobody can really predict where it will be heading," the Dutch DJ tells Divya Nair/Rediff.com.
How was your first meeting with Tiesto?
It was unreal. He has always been my biggest inspiration, I started making music because of him.
Did you imagine your track Animals? to be such a sensation?
Absolutely not. It all just happened.
Why did you chose electronic music?
When I saw Tiesto perform at the Olympics I got goosebumps all over.
That was the first time I got in touch with electronic music and after that I started messing around with it myself, just for fun.
I get inspired by all kinds of music.
How do you make music?
It really depends. Sometimes you make a track in an instance and sometimes it takes longer. The creative process for each track is really different.
You've come to India before. What do you think about the crowds and music culture here?
The crowds are always amazing, I love my Indian fans.
What do you like most about India?
The people!
Who are your favourite DJs, producers?
Some of my newest favorite DJs and producers are actually releasing on Stmpd Rcrds. We have so much amazing talent, so be sure to check it out.
How has electronic music/DJing changed since the time you started?
Music is always changing and nobody can really predict where it will be heading. So a lot has changed for sure and this is also what keeps it fun.
According to you, what are the three qualities required to be a top DJ?
Work hard, be nice and always try to improve yourself.
What tips would you like to share with aspiring DJs from India?
Work really hard on improving your sound. Try to get as much people as possible to listen to your music.
What are your future plans?
Just making lots and lots of music and do crazy shows.
What's your biggest career dream?
A sold out arena tour.
