Dutch DJ and producer Mau P has been featured on the cover of the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list for 2026, representing the entertainment category.
The annual list highlights young talent across industries, recognizing individuals under 30 who are shaping the future of their fields. In music and entertainment, it often includes artists who have not only broken through globally but also built a distinct identity in a fast-moving industry.
For Mau P, the recognition comes at a time when his career has seen rapid global growth.
Following the announcement, Mau P shared a message on Instagram reacting to the feature in his own way. In the post, he acknowledged the milestone but kept the tone informal, saying he was surprised to be on the cover.
He also noted that despite the recognition and financial success, his focus remains on making music rather than the business side of things. He described himself as “just a kid with a computer and a dream,” adding that he doesn’t closely track show fees and continues to approach his work from a creative perspective.
Before becoming Mau P, he was releasing music under the name Maurice West, with a sound rooted in commercial EDM and influenced by artists like Martin Garrix and Swedish House Mafia.
Speaking with Vogue, he reflected on that phase, noting that the music didn’t feel distinctive enough at the time. The turning point came during the pandemic, when he began exploring house and techno and decided to reset his direction completely.
Rather than evolving the existing project, he chose to start fresh. The Mau P identity, inspired by his childhood nickname, marked that shift.
In the same interview, he described his current position as something he had envisioned for years, saying that being able to do music every day as both passion and work felt like a long-term goal coming to life. The Forbes recognition reflects that journey – from experimenting with sound and identity to building a global presence in a short span of time.
Alongside the feature, Mau P also hinted at what’s ahead. In his Instagram post, he briefly mentioned that an album is on the way.
