In a country like the UAE, where the music scene is relatively new and fresh talent is constantly cultivated and nurtured, artists like Maxi Zee thrive. A German-Ghanaian rapper, Maxi Zee embarked on his journey to stardom as a globe-trotting b-boy (breakdancer) with stints in UK and Germany, before making his mark in the burgeoning city of Dubai. Here, he seamlessly integrates himself into the local hip-hop scene with his infectious bouncy flows, all while staying true to his roots.
His debut EP, Let the Flower Break the Concrete, released in September 2018, marked the beginning of his frequent travels abroad. Maxi’s diverse musical catalog resonates with a wide range of listeners, blending elements of old-school (boom bap), new-school (trap), future soul, and RnB, and will now be tapping into jazzy influences in projects to come.
Maxi Zee’s talent has been showcased on global stages, opening for renowned artists such as Redman and Method Man, KRS ONE, Big Daddy Kane. and more. His performances have graced major events like the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and the Sochi Olympic Park in Russia. Noteworthy achievements include his music being featured on TV shows like The Real Housewives of Dubai and The Drop on BBC3, as well as collaborations with industry giants like Adidas, JD Sports, and Timberland. Just in December, the artist graced the Sole DXB stage as part of the UAE Mixtape, alongside other Dubai-based rap aficionados such as Tac, Tayeb Santo, A’Y, and Moh Flow.
Currently, Maxi the artist is diligently working on his upcoming project titled MAZZA, a jazz-inspired hip-hop EP scheduled for release in summer 2024. We caught up with the up-and coming- rapper to get to know the person behind the flows. From how he got started to what we can expect from his next project, below, a conversation with Dubai’s own, Maxi Zee.
Tell us more about your journey from being a dancer to pursuing a career in music production and rap.
My journey into music is quite unconventional, starting off primarily as a dancer. I was deeply involved and spent years competing, teaching, traveling, and performing as a b-boy around the world. It was during this time that I stumbled upon my newfound passion for music. Transitioning from a dancer to a rapper wasn’t immediate though, it was a gradual evolution fuelled by a desire to explore different forms of self-expression. As I honed my skills in music production, including writing and composing, I naturally gravitated towards rap. I was drawn to its storytelling and melody creation aspects. This shift marked the beginning of my rap career, where I seamlessly blended my dance background with my newfound love for music. Throughout this journey, I’ve embraced challenges and opportunities, constantly pushing boundaries to develop my unique sound while being influenced by my roots as a dancer.
How has your background as a break-dancer influenced your unique style and approach to music?
My background as a b-boy has had a significant impact on my style and approach to music. As a dancer, I developed a keen sense of rhythm, movement, and expression, which translates seamlessly into my music. I often draw inspiration from the energy and dynamics of dance, and if you’ve been to a Maxi Zee live show, you know exactly what I’m speaking of. Additionally, my experience as a breakdancer has taught me a strong work ethic and determination, qualities that I bring to my music career. Overall, my background in dance has shaped my character and keeps helping me find innovative ways of creating and performing.
How do you balance artistic integrity with commercial opportunities?
It is a delicate dance, one that involves trial and error. While collaborations with major brands and sync placements on TV shows offer valuable exposure and financial benefits, maintaining my artistic integrity remains my top priority in more recent days. However, there have been times when financial constraints have led me to accept collaborations that I’m not particularly proud of. In such situations, the demand for high-quality music, especially in Dubai, can be considerable. Although not all opportunities are ideal, sometimes practicality necessitates taking on projects to meet financial obligations. Nowadays, I am much more mindful of the projects I choose to undertake. I believe I can still create meaningful and impactful work that resonates with both my audience and commercial partners, albeit with greater discernment.
Your upcoming project MAZZA sounds intriguing. Can you give us a sneak peek into what listeners can expect from this jazz-inspired hip-hop EP?
My upcoming EP is the most authentic music I have written to date as I’ve poured my heart and soul into this project. It’s raw, its relatable and 100% Maxi. The EP is a reflection of my personal journey and experiences over the past year, capturing the ups and downs of being a DIY artist and navigating the complexities of life, whether that’s heartbreak, financial struggle, or shutting down over more than 30 shows in the Middle East with my best friend Tayeb Santo. Listeners can expect a fusion of soulful jazz melodies, intricate rhythms, and classic hip-hop lyricism for sure. I draw inspiration from artists who push boundaries and innovate within their respective genres, such as Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, Mac Miller and Anderson .Paak. Their ability to blend different styles and experiment with sound has greatly influenced my approach to music.
How do you approach the creative process when working on new music? Do you have any rituals or routines that help fuel your inspiration?
I typically warm up by listening to various sounds, whether it’s fully produced beats or starting from scratch with a producer. However, I primarily let the intention guide the pen once I’ve found a feeling or my groove within the session. You could say that’s my ritual, somehow.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your music career, and how have you overcome them?
Some of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my music career have revolved around navigating the complexities of the music industry, overcoming self-doubt, and balancing the demands of creativity with the challenge of running a business. One significant challenge I face all the time is establishing myself as an independent artist in a competitive market, where standing out amongst the noise can be discouraging, to say the least. To overcome this, I’ve focused on honing my craft and building a strong community around me as an artist. Additionally, balancing the creative aspects of music-making with the administrative tasks of managing my career can be challenging too. To overcome this, I’ve implemented organisational strategies, set clear goals, and delegated tasks when necessary to ensure that I stay focused on both artistic growth and professional development.
Finally, what message or feeling do you hope listeners take away from your music, especially with your upcoming EP?
Ultimately, I hope that listeners find a sense of connection and resonance with my music, particularly with MAZZA. Through this project, I aim to convey a message of resilience, authenticity, and self-discovery. I want listeners to feel empowered to embrace their individuality, confront their challenges with courage, and find comfort in sorrow through a universal human experience reflected in the music. Whether it’s navigating heartbreak, overcoming misfortune, or celebrating personal triumphs, I hope that my music serves as a source of inspiration and emotional relief for listeners, reminding them that they are not alone in their journey.
