DJ Max Swart plays to the beat of his own drum

By Mailan Nguyen

Staff Writer

Costa Freshman Max Swart spends his time making his own sound and expressing his uniqueness by DJing at events in his attempt to allow people to express themselves freely and the way they like.

Swart started DJing when he was 10 years old. He first was inspired by a variety of music artists, but the one he was most inspired by was EDM DJ Diplo. According to Swart, Diplo’s music inspired him to make his music his own and show his individuality.

“My first gig was for a neighbor’s birthday party, I had a very poor selection of songs, but the audience really liked it when I played Diplo,” Swart said, “My music gradually started to get better by listening to the crowds’ opinions.”

Swart’s events after that include DJing at parties for other students, businesses, family members and community events. He also DJed for social gatherings and parties at Christian church Journey Of Faith. Swart has not charged payment for these events.

“I do not want to get paid yet because right now I prefer experience over money.” Swart said, “I find the experience much more valuable.”

Swart  said he achieves success by being himself while making his music. He wants the crowds that listen to his music to understand his taste, want to hear more, and feel a connection to it.

“Whenever I listen to music in my head I hear it in a different way, which gives me the inspiration to produce what I hear and give other people the opportunity to hear my unique taste in music.” Swart said.

In the future, Swart plans to progress in his music career and become a more experienced DJ through recognizing better selections of music and practicing more. He has also been striving to become a music producer.

“For the future, I plan to produce music and get the message out that I am not afraid to be different by having a different kind of taste,” Swart said, “I know I have support though because they cheer me on and it motivates me to keep going.”

Swart has performed in front of many Costa students outside of school. Most of them at Journey Of Faith for parties and social gatherings.

“When Max DJs, he is in his own world and  always has a great time, making everyone else have a great time too.” Costa freshman Soleil Crow said, “Over time he has gotten a lot better.”

Swart is one of many aspiring DJs, but what sets him apart from all the others is his unique approach to music.

“For me, playing and listening to my music is a way to escape from reality and makes all of my problems go away, hopefully in the future I can eventually make other people feel this way too” Swart said.