At this year’s SXSW, Mau P offered a refreshingly candid perspective on his journey as an artist, highlighting his deliberate approach to music creation amidst the ever-changing landscape of popular trends. During his appearance at the Billboard House event, he emphasized a focus on authentic expression over chasing what’s currently “popping,” underscoring his commitment to building a timeless sound for his debut album. This attitude not only sets him apart in the crowded electronic music scene but also reflects a broader shift among artists seeking to prioritize artistry over commercial immediacy.

Making a Statement at Billboard House @ SXSW

Behind the scenes of Mau P’s SXSW appearance

On Sunday, March 15, Mau P attended the Billboard House during SXSW, where he engaged in discussions about his musical background, influences, and upcoming debut album. The event was initially scheduled to feature a live performance at Moody Amphitheater as part of Billboard Presents THE STAGE, but severe weather conditions prompted a change in plans, moving Mau P’s headline set to the Concourse Project in Austin. Despite the logistical shift, Mau P’s presence at Billboard House underscored his rising prominence and the industry’s interest in his evolving artistry.

Insights from Mau P: Roots and Musical Evolution

Early influences shaping his sound

In an interview with Billboard senior music correspondent Katie Bain, Mau P delved into his musical upbringing. Growing up in a household filled with music, he was surrounded by a diverse array of sounds—from jazz played by his father and session musician, to hip-hop icons like Snoop Dogg and Pharrell. This eclectic exposure cultivated a versatile foundation that would later influence his production style. Mau P reflected on how these early days fostered a lifelong connection to music, considering it a fallback career—initially contemplating roles like a designer or a camera jib operator before fully embracing his musical destiny.

The Transition from Maurice West to Mau P

Redefining his artistic identity

Originally known as Maurice West, Mau P transitioned into his current persona as a way to explore a different musical landscape. His background in the mainstage EDM world equipped him with an understanding of large-scale sound design and high-energy performances, driven by the goal to energize massive crowds. However, Mau P aimed to evolve this approach into a more approachable, “sexier” sound suitable for clubs and personal listening. “When I transitioned into Mau P, it felt like my whole background of doing Maurice West was being put to use for a different kind of direction,” he explained. This shift allowed him to craft a style that balances big, dancefloor-ready sounds with intimacy and approachability, broadening his appeal across diverse settings.

From Festivals to Clubs: Crafting a Versatile DJ Persona

Playing both massive festivals and trendsetting parties

Mau P’s ability to navigate different environments has been central to his growth. His viral set at Coachella last April exemplifies how he masterfully bridges the gap between large-scale festivals and more intimate, trendsetting venues like CircoLoco. He emphasizes not just spectacle—fireworks and flames—but also the importance of musical craft, such as long-form mixing and thoughtful programming. “It’s a very thin line between me being able to play CircoLoco, but also me being able to play an hour at Coachella in a headline slot and still make it entertaining for people,” he states. This versatility underscores his commitment to musical storytelling, ensuring his performances resonate regardless of the audience size.

Creating His Debut Album: Authenticity Over Trends

The artistic process behind the project

While busy touring and performing, Mau P is devoting significant time to his debut album, which he announced in January. Rejecting the pressure to follow current trends, he emphasizes a focus on authenticity and timelessness. “I’m not trying to follow what’s popping right now,” Mau P shared. His goal is to produce music that stands the test of time—songs that can be played just as well on a piano and sung as they are played in clubs. This approach signals a deliberate departure from formulaic production techniques centered solely on sound quality or bass intensity, instead prioritizing emotional resonance and musical simplicity.

Sound and Style: The Balance of Timelessness and Bass

Mau P envisions an album that combines depth and groove without falling into specific genre trends. “It will have the fattest bass ever,” he teases, but with an emphasis on creating music that is, above all, timeless. His background in big-room dance music provides a foundation for impactful sounds, but his intent is to refine this into compositions that are both approachable and enduring, demonstrating that dance music can transcend fleeting fads and remain relevant for years to come.

Conclusion

Mau P’s presence at Billboard House @ SXSW exemplifies an artist striving for authenticity amidst the superficial currents of modern dance music. His clear stance on making music that’s true to his core, combined with a versatile performance style and a thoughtful approach to his debut album, positions him as a figure worth watching in the evolving landscape of electronic music. As the industry continues to grapple with the balance between trendiness and timelessness, Mau P’s approach highlights the enduring value of artistic integrity and musical sincerity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes Mau P’s music from other electronic artists?

Mau P focuses on creating a balance between big, club-ready sounds and musical authenticity. He aims to craft tracks that are both dancefloor-friendly and emotionally resonant, avoiding trends and instead emphasizing timeless musical elements.

How does Mau P’s background influence his current sound?

With roots in jazz, hip-hop, and large-scale EDM production, Mau P’s diverse influences allow him to blend groovy, sexy, and playful elements. His experience in big-stage performances informs his ability to produce soundscapes suited for both festivals and intimate club sets.

What can fans expect from Mau P’s debut album?

Fans can anticipate a collection of songs that prioritize melody, emotional depth, and musical simplicity over the latest production trends. Mau P is committed to making music that is versatile, timeless, and capable of being enjoyed in a variety of settings—from piano sing-alongs to dance floors.

How does Mau P view trends in electronic music?

He explicitly states he is not trying to follow what’s currently “popping,” opting instead to focus on authenticity and long-term musical relevance, which he believes will ultimately resonate more strongly with audiences and withstand fleeting fads.