Born and bred in South London, Max Cyrus is a composer, writer & music producer and a force to reckon with in the UK music industry. Previously known for his 2021 GQ Man of The Year ‘Points for Peace’ performance. Max has composed music for the likes of Mo Gilligan’s Black British & Funny on Channel 4. Co-writing the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation short film. And Composing for BBC, C4 and HBO Max. Max is currently the composer for Idris Elba’s BBC series ‘Fight School’.
What or who inspired you to begin a career in music?
My dad, when he arrived in the UK from Jamaica, he worked for Decca pressing records for Motown so my influence growing up in a household with a record player in the kitchen. The sounds of John Holt, my brother playing Soul music all helped influence me in a massive way. I found a path of expression through music.
What differs you and your sound from other rising artists in the music industry?
I let my emotions be the driver of my starting point in creative processes, so for me I can’t go to the studio to just try and stay popular and hit repeat on what others are making. I have to create sound compositions with a purpose.
Your new EP ‘The Uprise’ is out now. Can you please describe the creative process and inspiration behind the project?
The trauma and pain I experience is definitely part of the creative process. I wanted to produce and create a body of sound that stands for something. I was inspired by my family history, but the purpose of creating this EP was out of how I felt the music industry needed contributions for the purpose of balance as oppose to saturation.
We need to feel better, we need to listen to issues on mental health, true companionship, how we play our part in shaping the next generation (which is why mirrors the music video is what it is) the music videos are chapters of the wider story, hopefully the music videos alongside the music help that story project because the word play is important.
Are there any collabs on the new EP? How did they come about?
I am blessed to have the legend Omar Lyefook MBE and UK artist K Triggz feature. I met K Triggz backstage when Omar was supporting Erykah Badu on tour. Omar and I were already in the process of exploring ways to connect creatively and the universe connected all the dots.
The Uprise is in two parts, the second will complete the features I have secured – I am so excited this is all happening. They have given their time to invest and believe in my vision and the establishment of MCM Label (which is a newly formed UK label and publishing company).
In your own opinion, what is the most meaningful song you wrote? What makes you say that one?
I would say ‘Time To Change The Game,’ I played it to Janet Jackson when 3 years ago when a colleague of mine Winston Philips arranged the met up. That song hasn’t been released yet as a single but does feature on Idris Elba’s Fight School documentary currently on BBC iPlayer. It means a lot to me, the track symbolises my feeling of wanted to belong in a city where my culture isn’t fully embraced, the song composition is built to express that journey with no words.
Throughout your musical career, have you experienced any ‘wow’ moments?
Definitely! I would say the one of my biggest wow moments would be when Mos Def came to my mums house and I had my photo taken with him. Billy Bizznizz was his tour DJ at the time and my mentor. I had the biggest smile on my face, my mum didn’t know who he was and kept saying “he has big glasses”
What personal advice would you give to someone wanting to pursue this career?
Stay focused, stay humble, build your circle and don’t give up when its hard. These moments will shape you and help you in this industry. And above all, stay focused on your art!
What does the foreseeable future hold for you as an artist?
I have just been signed to M&C Saatchi Talent agency, I have a few exciting projects lined up! For now, its all about pushing the EP and getting ready for shows, a university tour in the UK with K Triggz later this year.
Anything else you would like to add?
The Uprise EP is available on a limited edition vinyl via my Bandcamp, only 200 copies with the exclusive hand crafted art by Tone. The sale of the vinyl art helps fund my creative projects and includes the digital release with the Vinyl. Plus it is a great piece of art to have in your home!
‘The Uprise EP’ is available now via all major platforms.
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