EDM superstar DJ Martin Garrix is one legendary artist all over the news nowadays; releasing solo tracks, and tracks in collaboration with other famous artists like Justin Beiber, Dua Lipa, & Ed Sheeran. Garrix stole the show at the closing ceremony of the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics 2018, when he made the entire stadium, including all athletes, party on his beats. Here are 6 lesser known facts about him:
1. Inspired by Tiesto opening the 2004 Olympics
Garrix never would have become a DJ had Tiesto not opened the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. Inspired , he decided to pursue DJing as well. He said in an interview: “I was watching The Olympics in 2004 with Tiesto opening the event which inspired me to do what I do today. Being part of the closing ceremony tomorrow, I can only hope and dream that I can inspire someone the same way he did. Life is crazy.” We think he has rightfully done what he hoped for.
2. Youngest ‘World’s Top DJ’
Garrix was named the world’s top DJ in DJ Mag’s annual Top 100 DJs poll of 2016. At the mere age of 20, he became the youngest ever person to receive the award. He’d then said, “It feels unreal to have won. I 100 percent did not expect it at all. I’ve had an amazing year, with awesome shows and amazing fans – I’m so thankful for their support. I didn’t even do a campaign, and it just shows how dope the fanbase is.” Also, he was then presented with his award by his mentor and four-time winner Tiesto in Amsterdam. He won the award in 2017 again.
3. Headlined Tomorrowland 2017
You know how big a deal Tomorrowland is, if you’re a serious EDM lover. Garrix headlined Tomorrowland 2017 where he premiered ‘Pizza’ and ‘So Far Away’, featuring vocals from Ellie Goulding and James Arthur. He also released his alter ego YTRAM which is his name spelled backwards.
4. Resident DJ at Hi Ibiza
Space Ibiza at Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel is internationally renowned as the one of the largest clubs in the world. It rebranded its club as Hi Ibiza, and Garrix was the obvious choice to be the resident DJ for 2017– and he lived up to everybody’s expectations!
5. World’s Highest Paid DJs
Garrix was listed in Forbes’ World’s Highest-Paid DJs 2017 ranking with annual income of $19.5 million for prior to June 2017.
6. Passionate towards his Work
He’s only 21 and has already made a name in the industry. It just proves how one can succeed if he really puts in passion into whatever he does. Moreover, he is seriously into charity too, helping NGOs using his tour earnings. He has worked with orphans in South African villages, and closely with War Child to raise funds for those affected most by conflict.