Martin Garrix:’ I Thought About Giving Up – But Then…’

Behind the blinding lights of mainstage festivals and the deafening roar of thousands chanting his name, Martin Garrix faced a truth few ever imagined—he nearly walked away from it all. The Dutch EDM prodigy, born Martijn Garritsen, recently opened up about his private battle with burnout, self-doubt, and the unexpected forces that kept him going.

In a raw and heartfelt interview, Martin Garrix revealed: “There was a time I thought about giving up – but then something changed.” These are the words of a superstar DJ who seemed to have it all: chart-topping hits, collaborations with the world’s biggest artists, and millions of adoring fans.

But behind the decks, things weren’t as perfect as they seemed.

The Burden of Early Stardom

When Martin Garrix exploded onto the scene in 2013 with “Animals,” he was just 16 years old. The track, a high-octane festival banger, became a global anthem and catapulted him to international fame almost overnight.

But success at such a young age came at a cost.

“I was just a teenager, suddenly flying around the world, surrounded by people much older than me. I didn’t know how to deal with the pressure,” Garrix shared.

The pressure to keep performing, keep producing hits, and constantly prove himself began to weigh him down. He wasn’t just a kid making music anymore—he was a brand, a business, and a global headliner.

Behind the Scenes: The Breaking Point

Despite the luxury of private jets, sold-out shows, and platinum records, Martin Garrix confessed that he began to feel lost.

“Everyone sees the highlight reel on Instagram. But they don’t see the sleepless nights, the anxiety before a show, or the feeling of isolation when you’re thousands of miles from home,” he said.

There were times, he admitted, when he’d stare at his laptop screen for hours, unable to create anything he liked. Times when the music, once his passion and escape, became a source of pressure and pain.

“I seriously thought about quitting. I thought, ‘Maybe this isn’t for me anymore. Maybe I already peaked.’”

The Turning Point: A Moment of Clarity

But everything changed during a quiet night at home in Amsterdam. After cancelling a few tour dates to rest, Garrix found himself alone with his guitar—something he hadn’t picked up in months.

“I just started strumming, playing random chords. No pressure, no deadline, no one watching. And for the first time in a long while, I felt peace.”

It was in that moment he realized what was missing: the joy of making music without expectations.

“I thought about giving up—but then I remembered why I started.”

He wasn’t in it for the fame or the charts. He was in it because he loved music.

Support From Those Who Matter Most

Another major factor in his decision to keep going was the unwavering support from his inner circle.

Tiësto, a mentor and close friend, gave him a piece of advice that changed his perspective forever.

“He told me, ‘Why are you letting one negative comment ruin your day when thousands are screaming your name in love? Focus on those people.’”

It wasn’t just industry legends who stood by him—his fans did too. Messages poured in from across the world, with fans saying how his music had saved them during tough times.

“I realized that my music wasn’t just about me. It had become part of people’s lives, part of their memories. That’s powerful.”

Reclaiming the Joy of Creation

Following this turning point, Garrix made some critical changes to his routine.

He reduced the number of shows he performed each year, prioritized rest, and allowed himself to say no when something didn’t feel right.

“I started creating again—not for the charts, but for myself.”

Tracks like “High on Life” and “No Sleep” reflected this new mindset: euphoric, emotional, and deeply personal.

Collaborations with artists like Bono and The Edge (U2), Khalid, and Dua Lipa came from a place of artistic curiosity rather than business calculation.

A New Era: Martin Garrix Today

Now in his late 20s, Martin Garrix stands not only as a DJ but as a symbol of resilience and authenticity in an industry that rarely shows its vulnerable side.

He’s back to headlining festivals—Ultra, Tomorrowland, Coachella—but with a different energy.

“I’m still working hard, still grinding, but I’m not running on empty anymore. I’m grounded now.”

He has also launched STMPD RCRDS, a label dedicated to nurturing new talent, offering young producers the kind of support he wishes he had more of when starting out.

“If I can help even one kid avoid the burnout I went through, that’s a win.”

Opening Up About Mental Health

Garrix’s honesty about his struggles has sparked important conversations in the music industry, particularly around mental health and the toll of fame on young artists.

“We need to normalize rest. We need to normalize saying, ‘I’m not okay.’”

He’s partnered with wellness organizations, spoken at panels, and used his platform to advocate for better mental health support across the industry.

“You can be successful and still be struggling. That doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human.”

What’s Next for Martin Garrix?

With new music in the works and a renewed sense of purpose, Martin Garrix shows no signs of slowing down—at least not creatively.

He’s rumored to be collaborating with both EDM veterans and surprising crossover acts from the indie and Latin pop worlds.

His upcoming tour includes an immersive live experience, complete with custom visuals and storytelling elements that reflect his personal journey.

“I want people to leave my shows feeling inspired—not just hyped, but emotionally moved.”

And for those wondering whether he’ll ever reach that “breaking point” again?

“I’ve learned how to listen to myself now. If I ever get close, I’ll take a step back. Music will always be a part of me—but it doesn’t have to break me.”

Conclusion: A Message to Dreamers

Martin Garrix’s story is one of triumph—not just over external challenges, but over inner doubt.

His message is simple, yet profound:

“If you’re ever at the point where you think about giving up—pause. Breathe. Reconnect with your ‘why.’ Sometimes, it’s not about pushing harder. It’s about remembering what made you fall in love in the first place.”

In an industry that often celebrates perfection and relentless hustle, Garrix’s vulnerability shines like a beacon. He’s living proof that even the biggest stars can lose their way—and still find the light again.