The Rise of Max Styler in Dance Music
The Turning Point
Max Styler, a name that has recently started to resonate in the dance music scene, found himself at a crossroads in his career. Despite his efforts in the industry, he grappled with feelings of frustration that led him to consider stepping back. “I was sick of my project and thought, ‘Maybe I’ll just be a ghost producer in the back end… because I can’t really figure out what I want to do,” Styler recalls, revealing his struggles with creative direction.
Fortunately, a pivotal conversation with his girlfriend—now wife—came just in time. She encouraged him to return to the roots of what made him passionate about music: “You just need to make the music you like to listen to and the music people want to dance to. She basically told me I needed to make better music,” he shares. This moment of enlightenment became the catalyst for Styler’s transformation and subsequent rise in the dance music landscape.
Breaking Into the Scene
After embracing this advice, Styler made significant strides in his career. Since 2022, he has gained attention by partnering with several renowned labels, including Spinnin Records and John Summit’s Experts Only. His industry footprint expanded when he made appearances at the iconic Lollapalooza and Coachella music festivals. He distinguishes himself with his extended sets, remarking that “four hours or more is perfect,” allowing for a unique experience that invites fans to immerse themselves in his musical rhythm.
On August 7, he released his latest EP, I Don’t Think I Can Stop, which features six tracks capturing the essence of his newfound creativity. Styler, speaking to Billboard from his temporary home in Paris, notes how this latest work is a blend of both older and newly crafted tracks, reflecting his current mental state as a DJ.
Early Influences
Styler’s musical journey began in the serene town of San Luis Obispo, California. Although the local scene offered limited exposure to dance music, he discovered a thriving community online through platforms like SoundCloud. “What connected me and my friends was our love of finding music,” he reminisces, highlighting their collective effort to unearth undiscovered tracks. Influential artists like AC Slater, Boys Noize, and Flume later shaped his own sound.
Determined to pursue a career in music, Styler took the initiative to buy production software and dedicate his free time to mastering his craft. Encouraged by experiences playing at local gigs and school dances, he began cultivating his sound, paving the way for future opportunities.
Persistence and Breakthrough
Styler’s relentless ambition led him to connect with Collective Effort Events, the only local dance music promoter. He sent nearly a hundred emails over the years, ultimately receiving a response that changed everything: “This is sick; we like this. We can’t get back to every email, but we’ve been listening to everything,” they told him.
His big break came in 2013 when he was booked to open for Above & Beyond at just 17 years old. Despite a wave of nerves that made him feel nauseous, this performance was his gateway into the industry. Shortly thereafter, a member of the promotion team signed on as his manager, helping him secure a long-term deal with Dim Mak, a label that would play a crucial role in his early development.
Music as a Learning Journey
Reflecting on his eight-year tenure with Dim Mak, Styler describes it as akin to attending music college. During this period, he honed not only his musical skills but also began to establish the sound that would define his artistic identity. However, by the time the pandemic struck, he found himself creatively adrift and considered stepping away from music.
Fortunately, this moment of uncertainty transformed into clarity after embracing his wife’s advice. Styler revitalized his passion and purpose, which coincided with signing his first track to John Summit’s label.
Discovering His Sound
With a fresh approach, Styler crafted a sleek and nuanced indie tech house sound, balancing subtlety with an undeniable dance floor energy. Tracks like “Love Forever” and “Close My Eyes” from the I Don’t Think I Can Stop EP perfectly encapsulate this evolution. The project was intentionally designed to resonate with the late-night club experiences that inspire him.
Styler’s preferred setting remains club shows, where he can curate extended sets and explore a wide range of music. “Four-hour windows give me time to play everything I want,” he says, enhancing the atmosphere with a fresh mix every weekend, diligently testing out new tracks.
Global Aspirations
As Styler’s name started gaining international traction, he recognized the importance of collaboration in establishing a global presence. “Solomun has been especially important in building my name internationally,” he explains. “It’s not super easy to get out of playing the U.S., but my music found its way out, which has helped me grow globally.”
Looking ahead, he has an exciting series of performances lined up across the globe, from festivals in Brazil to Las Vegas club nights. Amidst the whirlwind of travel, Styler remains focused on maintaining a balanced lifestyle, carving out time for fitness and rest—even finding ways to nap on planes.
Embracing New Chapters
Max Styler is in a pivotal phase of his career, driven by a relentless passion for music and a desire to grow his artistic platform. As he navigates life in Paris—a city synonymous with artistic inspiration—he finds himself reflecting on his journey. “I’m in Paris because I make music for a living. What is life?” he muses, fully appreciative of the reality he is creating.
With aspirations to continue releasing music that ignites the dance floor and traveling to new destinations, Styler is set to make waves in the industry. Time will tell how this dynamic artist continues to shape the landscape of dance music, but his journey is one that is sure to inspire both fans and fellow musicians alike.
