Getting to Know Maxi Meraki

Maxi Meraki has spent the past few years building his name through consistent releases and a busy touring schedule, becoming a familiar presence in clubs and festivals around the world. With music on labels like Diynamic, Higher Ground, and Insomniac, and support from artists such as Solomun, Adriatique, Black Coffee, and Keinemusik, he’s found his place within a tight circle of artists shaping today’s sound. His remixes for RÜFÜS DU SOL, WhoMadeWho, Monolink, and Mahmut Orhan show a clear direction in both taste and collaboration.

Off stage, things are a lot more low-key. In this interview, Maxi talks about staying grounded while traveling, the habits that keep him balanced, and how he thinks about building a career without rushing it. From cooking after long flights to playing extended late-night sets, it’s a look at the person behind the music and what keeps him going.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

I’m actually quite calm and introverted when I’m not on stage. People see the shows and the energy, but most of the time I’m happiest cooking, biking around a city, or digging for music.

If you weren’t a DJ/Producer, what would you be?

Probably something creative but still connecting people. Maybe designing experiences or spaces. I love the idea of bringing people together through atmosphere, not just music. And I actually have a bachelor’s in International Business.

What’s the most memorable moment of your career?

Hearing thousands of people sing along to one of my tracks for the first time. That moment when something you made alone in a studio suddenly belongs to everyone.

Who’s an artist that inspires you right now?

Artists who stay true to their identity while pushing the sound forward… people like Solomun, RÜFÜS DU SOL, and WhoMadeWho.

What’s a track you play when you want to get the crowd hyped?

It changes constantly, but anything with a strong groove and emotional tension always works. Tracks that slowly build the energy rather than explode immediately. Probably one of the Maxi Meraki “classics.”

What’s your go-to snack or drink before a show?

A banana or something light, lots of water, sometimes a coffee. Touring teaches you pretty quickly that heavy food before a set is a bad idea. So I guess no more steakhouses before a show!

What’s your favorite city to play in, and why?

Buenos Aires will always be special. The crowd understands the music in a different way, there’s a shared energy that’s hard to explain.

How would you describe your sound in three words?

Energetic. Hypnotic. Emotional.

What’s one non-music-related thing or hobby that makes you happy?

Cooking. There’s something very grounding about making food after a long travel day.

What’s a track that always brings you back to your roots?

Daft Punk – One More Time. A timeless groove that captures the spirit of house music perfectly.

If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be?

Probably someone like Depeche Mode. Their songwriting and atmosphere are timeless.

If you could time travel to any era of music history, when would it be and why?

Probably the late ’70s disco era in Miami. The music, the clubs, the energy — it was such a raw and exciting time for dance music culture.

If you weren’t touring or in the studio, where would we find you?

Probably somewhere by the sea, cooking with friends, or discovering a new restaurant.

What’s a fun fact or hidden talent that has nothing to do with music?

I make a pretty good homemade pasta.

What are some things you forget but feel better when you are reminded about?

How lucky I am to travel the world through music.

What personal prison have you built out of fear?

Perfectionism. Sometimes it slows you down creatively.

If you could compliment yourself, what would you say?

I’m persistent. I don’t give up easily.

What is your favorite set time and duration?

Late-night sets that go two to three hours or longer. That’s when you can really tell a story.