At this year’s SXSW festival, Mau P—now the current cover star of Billboard—opened up about his creative journey, artistic influences, and the inspiration behind his upcoming debut album during his appearance at Billboard House. His candid remarks, especially his assertion of not trying to follow what’s trending right now, signal a refreshing commitment to authenticity and musical integrity in an era driven by fleeting viral sensations.

Making His Mark at Billboard House @ SXSW

On March 15, Mau P visited Billboard House in Austin, Texas, where he discussed his artistic evolution and upcoming debut album with Billboard senior music correspondent Katie Bain. The conversation occurred shortly before his headlining set at The Concourse Project, underscoring his rising prominence in the dance music scene. Originally scheduled as part of Billboard Presents THE STAGE, Mau P’s performance was moved due to severe weather conditions, but his presence at the event remained highly anticipated.

Reflections on Musical Influences and Background

Roots in a Musical Household

Mau P shared that growing up in a musically rich environment profoundly shaped his identity as an artist. His mother, a singer, and his father, a session musician, conductor, and music teacher, created a household immersed in sound. Their home doubled as a studio, giving Mau unfettered access to a wide array of instruments and musical genres. He recounts, “I could always just go downstairs and play whatever instrument was available,” revealing how his childhood environment fostered early experimentation.

This background contributed to Mau’s versatile approach: he initially considered careers in design and camera operation but found his true calling in music, ultimately blending various influences into his distinct style.

The Artistic Evolution: From Maurice West to Mau P

Before adopting his current moniker, Mau P made waves in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene under the name Maurice West. His transition into the Mau P persona marked a deliberate shift toward a sound that balances dancefloor energy with a more intimate, approachable vibe.

He explained, “When I transitioned into Mau P, it felt like my background of doing Maurice West was being put to use for a different kind of direction.” His mastery of large, stadium-filling sounds became a foundation for crafting music that is “sexier” and more accessible—songs that can seamlessly fit in both expansive festival environments and intimate club settings.

The Approach to His Debut Album

Staying True to His Core

Mau P revealed that he is in the studio working on his debut album amidst a busy touring schedule. Unlike many artists eager to produce trendy, “buzzworthy” records, he emphasizes sticking to his artistic principles. “I’m not trying to follow what’s popping right now,” he stated. Instead, his focus is on creating music that resonates on a fundamental, emotional level.

He wants his album to be versatile—songs that “you can play on a piano and sing,” ensuring the music maintains its integrity regardless of the platform or setting. His goal is to craft timeless pieces, not just rely on technical production elements like drums or bass to drive the track’s appeal.

Timelessness Over Trends

Mau P intends for his debut collection to transcend fleeting musical fads. “Like, you know me, it will have the fattest bass ever,” he laughed, “but it still has to be timeless.” This philosophy reflects a desire to build a lasting musical legacy that prioritizes authenticity and emotional depth over momentary hype.

The Significance of Authenticity in a Fast-Paced Industry

His stance against chasing current trends highlights a broader discussion within the music industry: the importance of maintaining artistic authenticity amidst rapidly changing tastes driven by algorithms and viral algorithms. Mau P’s approach exemplifies a conscious effort to establish a sustainable and meaningful career by staying true to his sound and core influences.

Conclusion

Mau P’s insights at Billboard House during SXSW demonstrate a thoughtfully grounded artist committed to creating music that is genuine and enduring. His refusal to succumb to current trends underscores a philosophy that prioritizes musical integrity and personal expression. As he continues to develop his debut album, listeners and industry insiders alike will be watching to see how his dedication to authenticity translates into a body of work that could influence the future landscape of dance music.

FAQs

What inspired Mau P’s musical style?

His upbringing in a musical household, listening to jazz, Snoop Dogg, and Pharrell, deeply influenced his style. His background in large-stage EDM set a foundation for his ability to blend powerful sounds with a sensual and approachable vibe.

Why does Mau P emphasize not following trends for his debut album?

He values creating timeless music that reflects his core. He aims for his songs to resonate emotionally and remain relevant beyond current musical fads, ensuring longevity in his career.

What are Mau P’s future plans after SXSW?

He plans to continue working on his debut album, performing at festivals and clubs worldwide, and maintaining his authentic sound. His focus remains on crafting music that is true to his artistic vision.