Who TF is MAX RAD?

With the excellent new single ‘Old Toy’ out and an EP coming very soon, we got better acquainted with the hotly tipped MAX RAD

For about 18 months now, MAX RAD has been treating us to a slew of thoughtful and evocative singles and has really carved out a name for himself. The singer-songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist has a very hands-on approach when it comes to his music and his sound, and this is something that has played a large part in the success and acclaim that he has received. Cutting his teeth among the London music scene, the Gloucestershire-born artist has developed a unique brand of electronic music that feels uniquely his.

From innately catchy singles such as ‘Carousel’ and ‘Rumours’, to his emotional and phenomenal, soul-baring new release ‘Old Toy’, there is something that is quintessentially MAX RAD about all of his work, and this unique DNA has earned the artist scores of plaudits and admirers. With a huge 2020 planned and an already sensational back catalogue of work behind him, MAX RAD has allowed us to get to know him a little better and delve into the mind of one of the UK’s finest emerging talents.

Who TF is MAX RAD?

I don’t want any trouble..

How long have you been making music?

When I was about 6 or 7 I started playing guitar and writing songs. I became obsessed with recording and producing when I got a little 8-track digital recorder and a mic shortly after that. I played in various bands growing up and made lots of different kinds of music. I started this project though about 2 years ago.

Why do you make music?

cos I love it.

What are your biggest influences?

A little bit of everything. It’s incredible that being around today, we are exposed to so much – so many different kinds of art forms, music, literature, films etc that you can’t help but soak it all up in some way.

What would you say has been your best moment so far?

Playing at the Village Underground last year supporting my friend Jordan Mackampa. It is one of my favourite venues in London and to get to play it in front of such an amazing crowd was mad. It was a really incredible night to be a part of to be honest.

How would you describe your sound to somebody unfamiliar with it?

I think what it boils down to is a man singing about some feelings he’s had, put over some warm synths and a few other instruments that he’s played and then some other electronic stuff.

What’s your dream “I’ve made it” moment?

Getting asked to Elton’s christmas party. No, I’d have to say playing Glastonbury.

How do you feel that being a part of the London electronic scene has impacted you as a musician?

I think it has made me try and stay at the top of my game. There is a lot of great music coming out of not only London but the whole of the UK at the moment, and it feels amazing to be a part of it. It’s inspiring.

We love your latest release ‘Old Toy’, could you tell us some more about it?

Thank you. I wrote it at a time when I was feeling very nostalgic, which is a weird feeling to have – you’re not really sad but you’re not happy either. It is about missing a feeling of someone or something, I liked the imagery of an old toy and all the feelings that conjures up.