Artist Background – MAIl

Artist Interview – MAIl

Which artists or sounds had the biggest influence on your style early in your career?

I’ve always had a deep love for music — not just one genre, but a wide spectrum of styles. Growing up, I listened to everything from electronic to pop, hip-hop, and even classical music. That openness still defines how I create today. One of the biggest moments for me was experiencing live sets from artists like Tiësto and DJ Aligator here in Denmark. Those events weren’t just parties — they were full-scale performances that made me realize how powerful electronic music can be as an emotional and communal experience.

Later, I discovered artists like Kasper Koman and Tim Green, whose productions had a more organic, melodic, and introspective approach. Their ability to balance groove and emotion really influenced how I think about music. I try to bring those same qualities into my own sound — something that makes you move but also makes you feel.

What advice would you give to an artist struggling to discover their unique sound?

The most important thing I’ve learned is: Don’t force it. Your sound will develop naturally over time as you explore, experiment, and trust your instincts. Inspiration doesn’t always come from the studio — it can come from everyday life, from listening to a random playlist, or even from something visual like a film or nature. You have to stay open and curious.

Also, don’t be afraid to combine different influences. For me, it’s exactly the blend of genres I’ve listened to that helps me bring something unique into my production. You don’t have to fit into a mold. In fact, it’s better if you don’t. The goal is to express something real, and that will always resonate more than trying to copy what’s currently trending.

Is there a sound or technique that you feel best defines your signature style?

I think what defines my sound is a deep, organic atmosphere with uplifting melodies and strong rhythms. I like to work with natural textures — field recordings, ambient layers, and emotional chords — and then pair that with a driving groove. It’s not too melancholic, but it has depth. I want listeners to be able to dance, but also reflect.

My process is very intuitive. I rarely start with a fixed plan. Instead, I go with what feels right in the moment. Sometimes it’s a melody, sometimes a drum loop, sometimes just a sample that sparks something. That emotional, feel-based approach is what gives my music its identity.

What’s one thing you wish people understood about the challenges of being a producer today?

Producing today is both exciting and overwhelming. There are so many tools, tutorials, plugins, and options that it’s easy to get lost. One challenge is actually staying focused and not falling into the trap of perfectionism or comparison. It’s very tempting to constantly tweak or chase a certain sound because it’s popular, but that usually leads you away from your own voice.

Another challenge is the mental aspect. Producing is often a solo journey, and self-doubt can creep in fast. You’re your own critic, manager, and motivator. It takes a lot of discipline and love for the craft to keep going. But if you stay connected to why you started in the first place — for the love of music — it becomes easier to push through those blocks.

Why do you think some artists get stuck working within a specific style?

I think a lot of artists get stuck because they feel pressure — from the industry, from audiences, or even from themselves — to stay in a certain lane. Once you’re known for a sound, it’s easy to become afraid of changing it. But for me, stepping away from music for a while — and living life fully, especially as a father — actually gave me a new sense of freedom.

Being a family man has introduced me to a kind of love and inspiration that’s beyond words. There’s a deeper emotional well to draw from now. I don’t feel the same need to “prove” myself by following trends. I’m creating from a place of love, purpose, and authenticity — and that naturally helps me evolve and explore, rather than stay stuck in one direction.