The Journey from Young Talent to EDM Legend: Discover how Martin Garrix rose from a teenage DJ with the song “Animals” to become a global icon

Few artists in the electronic dance music (EDM) world have had as meteoric a rise as Martin Garrix. From a young prodigy with a dream to a global sensation, Garrix has cemented his place as one of the most influential figures in modern electronic music. His journey from an aspiring DJ to an international superstar is an inspiring story of passion, dedication, and innovation.

The Early Days: A Young DJ with Big Dreams

Born in 1996 in the Netherlands, Martin Garrix developed a passion for music at a young age. Inspired by fellow Dutch DJ Tiësto’s performance at the 2004 Olympic Games, Garrix set his sights on becoming a professional DJ and music producer.

Learning the Craft and Early Influences

Garrix started experimenting with music production at just eight years old. With a strong drive to perfect his skills, he studied music production at the Herman Brood Academy, a prestigious music school in the Netherlands. This formal training gave him the foundation he needed to craft his unique sound and develop his skills in electronic music production.

During this period, he was heavily influenced by artists such as Tiësto, Hardwell, and David Guetta, all of whom played significant roles in shaping his musical style. He began producing tracks and experimenting with different sounds, constantly refining his craft in pursuit of perfection.

The Breakthrough: “Animals” Puts Martin Garrix on the Map

The turning point in Martin Garrix’s career came in 2013 when he released the track “Animals” under the label Spinnin’ Records. The song became an instant sensation, topping charts worldwide and introducing the world to Garrix’s signature energetic style.

How “Animals” Changed Everything

“Animals” was not just another EDM track—it was a game-changer. The song’s hard-hitting bass drops, infectious melody, and explosive energy made it a festival anthem. It dominated clubs, radio stations, and music charts, reaching the top 10 in multiple countries and becoming one of the most recognizable EDM tracks of all time.

For a 17-year-old DJ, achieving this level of success was unprecedented. Martin Garrix suddenly found himself at the center of the EDM world, performing at major festivals and gaining recognition from industry veterans.

Establishing Himself as a Force in EDM

With the massive success of “Animals”, many questioned whether Garrix would be a one-hit wonder. However, he quickly proved that he was here to stay by releasing a string of successful tracks and collaborations.

Collaborations with Industry Giants

As his reputation grew, Martin Garrix collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, further solidifying his status in the industry. Some of his most notable collaborations include:

• “Helicopter” with Firebeatz

• “Tremor” with Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike

• “Don’t Look Down” featuring Usher

• “Scared to Be Lonely” with Dua Lipa

• “In the Name of Love” with Bebe Rexha

These tracks showcased his versatility, proving that he could create everything from festival bangers to emotional and melodic hits.

Becoming a Global Icon

By 2016, Martin Garrix had established himself as a leading force in EDM. That year, he made another major career move by parting ways with Spinnin’ Records and launching his own label, STMPD RCRDS. This move allowed him complete creative control over his music and gave him the freedom to experiment with different styles.

Winning DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs

Garrix’s talent and influence were recognized when he was named the No. 1 DJ in the world by DJ Mag in 2016—a title he went on to win multiple times. This achievement placed him among legends like Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, and David Guetta.

The Festival King: Dominating the World’s Biggest Stages

A major part of Martin Garrix’s appeal is his electrifying live performances. Over the years, he has headlined nearly every major music festival, including:

• Tomorrowland

• Ultra Music Festival

• Coachella

• EDC Las Vegas

His sets are known for their energy, stunning visuals, and seamless mixing, creating unforgettable experiences for fans worldwide.

Expanding Beyond EDM: Exploring New Sounds

As Martin Garrix matured as an artist, he began experimenting with different genres and styles. While he remains rooted in EDM, he has ventured into pop and deep house, collaborating with mainstream artists and producing more radio-friendly tracks.

Hit Singles That Show His Evolution

• “Ocean” featuring Khalid – A more chilled-out, melodic song showcasing his ability to create emotional tracks.

• “High on Life” featuring Bonn – A euphoric anthem that became a festival favorite.

• “No Sleep” featuring Bonn – A testament to his evolving sound and ability to blend different elements into his music.

Giving Back: Mentorship and Industry Influence

As one of the most successful young artists in EDM, Martin Garrix has also taken on the role of mentor and industry leader. Through his label STMPD RCRDS, he has provided a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent and develop their careers.

Additionally, he has been an advocate for mental health awareness in the music industry, often speaking about the pressures of fame and the importance of staying true to oneself.

What’s Next for Martin Garrix?

Even after a decade in the industry, Martin Garrix continues to evolve and push boundaries. He remains at the forefront of the EDM scene, constantly releasing new music, headlining festivals, and surprising fans with innovative projects.

With his talent, passion, and relentless work ethic, there is no doubt that Martin Garrix will continue to shape the future of electronic music for years to come.

Final Thoughts: From Young Prodigy to EDM Legend

The story of Martin Garrix is one of dedication, talent, and perseverance. From his early days as a young DJ inspired by Tiësto to becoming a global icon with multiple No. 1 hits, he has achieved what many only dream of.

His ability to adapt, innovate, and stay true to his passion has made him one of the most respected and beloved figures in the EDM community. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, there’s no denying that Martin Garrix has left an indelible mark on the world of electronic dance music.