VIZE | CAR 2024 #03

German DJ and producer VIZE has become a household name in the electronic music world, captivating audiences with his unique sound and prolific output. Since breaking onto the scene in 2018, he has achieved monumental success, amassing over 3 billion streams and earning more than 75 gold and platinum certifications across 18 countries. Known for his chart-topping hits such as Never Let Me Down and Stars, VIZE’s music has an unmistakable ability to blend emotional depth with high-energy rhythms, solidifying his place among the genre’s elite. Collaborating with icons like Armin van Buuren and Papa Roach, he continues to push creative boundaries while staying true to his distinct style.

Despite his rapid ascent, VIZE’s journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing in a small village in Thuringia, Germany. His early passion for music led him to organize local parties at just 15 years old, paving the way for his evolution into a worldclass artist. Influenced by his Asian heritage, he incorporates values of patience and perseverance into both his music and personal life. These qualities are reflected in his thoughtful approach to balancing a demanding career with meaningful downtime, fostering a sense of stability and creativity that underpins his artistry.

In this article, we delve into the different facets of VIZE’s life and career. From the challenges of life on the road to his grounding hobbies of bonsai cultivation and koi fish care, VIZE offers a rare glimpse into the practices that keep him focused and energized. We’ll explore how he maintains a deep connection with fans through personal and musical engagement, offering insights into his unique approach to building lasting relationships in an ever-changing industry.

We’ll also touch on the power of collaboration, a cornerstone of VIZE’s career. Whether working with legendary artists or exploring uncharted genres, his partnerships have shaped his sound and expanded his artistic horizons. From slaphouse to rock-electronic hybrids, VIZE demonstrates a fearless commitment to experimentation while staying true to his creative vision.Finally, we’ll look ahead to what’s next for this multi-talented artist. As he continues to chart new territories, both musically and personally, VIZE exemplifies the balance of ambition and authenticity. Through his candid reflections and artistic growth, he offers not only an inspiring story but also a masterclass in navigating the highs and challenges of life as a global music icon.

For VIZE, the fast-paced life of a touring artist is exhilarating but challenging. He emphasizes the importance of having “anchor points” both on and off the road:

“At home, I recharge through my family, friends, and especially my dog. No matter what kind of chaos I’ve been through on tour, coming home to that unconditional joy is one of the best feelings in the world. I also have hobbies like bonsai trees and koi fish. They bring me a sense of calm and require patience, focus, and being fully present— things I don’t always have while I’m on tour.”

On the road, his team is a crucial source of support:

“We’ve built a strong bond, and knowing I can relyon them gives me so much strength to get through the demanding grind of life on the road. Sometimes, I’ll also take the opportunity to sneak in a sauna session; that’s another great way to recharge while traveling.”

However, the most challenging aspect of his career is the personal sacrifices it demands:

“Living the dream as an artist is incredible, but it comes with its challenges too. I’ve had to skip birthdays and other milestones, which isn’t easy. That’s why I try to make the most of the time I have with the people I care about. I think the key is to be fully present whenever you’re with them, even if the moments are short.”

VIZE’s career has been marked by a remarkable ability to collaborate with a diverse array of artists, from Armin van Buuren to Papa Roach. Reflecting on these experiences, he describes the magic of collaboration as transformative:

“It’s hard to put into words just how special the energy is when you’re creating music with other artists. This magic leads to something completely new every time. Looking back over the past five years, the number of collaborations I’ve done and the range of genres I’ve explored—it’s insane.”

“Every artist brings their unique approach to a song, and there’s this magic that leads to something completely new every time. Working with artists like Armin van Buuren or Papa Roach has not only expanded my musical horizons but also challenged me creatively.”

Working with seasoned industry veterans has been particularly inspiring for VIZE:

“Sometimes it’s a technical tip or something super practical, and other times it’s a whole new mindset. The biggest lesson I’ve taken away is to always stay open to new ideas, no matter how successful you are or how long you’ve been in the industry.”

These partnerships have allowed him to explore new genres and redefine his musical identity:

“Collaborating with Papa Roach to create a slaphouse-rock track was one of the most exciting and challenging projects I’ve worked on. Each project has been unique and has helped me grow and evolve as an artist.”

Engaging with Fans through Social Media, Festivals, and Unforgettable Experiences

The relationship between an artist and their fans is often the backbone of their journey, and for this artist, that connection runs deeper than most.

Over the past few years, his social media community has blossomed into a thriving network of shared stories, collaborative moments, and genuine interactions.

“I try to stay close to my fans, My social media community has grown incredibly over the past few years, and I think a big part of that is because I actively involve them in my content and try to give them a voice. I engage with them, listen to their input, and genuinely enjoy the connection. At festivals, I often camp with the crowd, sharing wild experiences and creating unforgettable moments together,” he explains.

This bond extends beyond the digital realm and into the raw, unfiltered energy of festivals, where the artist often immerses himself in the crowd.

Camping among festival-goers, sharing stories, and enjoying the chaos of the scene, he finds inspiration and builds memories that fuel his craft.

“One of the funniest things is meeting people who don’t know who I am,” he recalls. “Later, when they realize I’m the artist performing on the main stage that night, it’s always a great moment. Their honesty in those initial conversations about their experiences and favorite artists is something I truly cherish.”

One particular story stands out among the many unforgettable experiences he has shared with fans—the now-legendary “festival palm incident.” During a festival, he and his group planted a small palm tree at their campsite, only for it to mysteriously disappear during his set. Instead of frustration, the incident turned into an opportunity to engage with his fanbase.

“I turned to social media and called on everyone to help return the tree,” he recounts.

What followed was a viral sensation, culminating in the group who had taken the palm tree traveling to one of his shows to return it in person.

This lighthearted moment captured the spirit of his relationship with fans—a blend of humor, connection, and shared experiences that transcend the music itself.

“Even today, I still get videos from people showing off festival palm trees they’ve added to their camps,” he shares with a laugh.

These moments are not just anecdotes; they’re testaments to the strength and creativity of the community he’s built.

For Vize, it’s clear that his fans are not just spectators—they’re collaborators in creating a vibrant, memorable culture that amplifies the impact of his music and live performances. From viral pranks to heartfelt conversations, he continues to redefine what it means to be an artist in today’s world, building bridges of connection that resonate far beyond the main stage.

Staying Authentic in a Rapidly Changing Industry In an industry that evolves at lightning speed, VIZE remains committed to his artistic vision:

“It’s important to keep an eye on developments in the music industry, but not to chase every trend. Feedback from fans is crucial, but at the end of the day, you need to stay true to yourself. That’s how you build a connection that lasts.”

This approach allows him to strike a balance between staying true to his roots and pushing creative boundaries:

“I pay close attention to how fans react to my music, and I aim to keep my music authentic while still exploring new directions. That’s what keeps things exciting for both me and my listeners.”

VIZE’s journey is deeply influenced by his upbringing in a small village in Thuringia and his Asian heritage. Reflecting on his early experiences, he recalls organizing his own parties at the age of 15:

“The first parties were an instant success, and soon we were planning bigger events. It was a learning experience, but it also sparked my passion for music and performance.”

While his music doesn’t directly incorporate Asian cultural elements, the values instilled by his heritage—such as patience and perseverance—are evident in his work:

“The focused work ethic, the perseverance, the commitment to pursue a goal and give everything to achieve it—there’s no better role model for me than my father. He’s my biggest inspiration.”

Caring for koi and bonsai is a practice of patience, precision, and unwavering dedication—traits that resonate deeply with the creative process. For VIZE, these peaceful hobbies mirror his work as an artist, offering lessons that extend beyond nature.

“Working with bonsai trees shows me that big changes often come from small, consistent steps,” he shares. “It starts with a tiny plant. You develop a vision: What do you want it to look like? Growth takes time, and you guide it with care—just like in music production. You start with an idea, refine the details, and let it grow into something bigger.”

The calming presence of koi brings a different kind of inspiration.

“Their elegance and stillness, the vibrant colors and graceful movements—they inspire me,” he explains.

This serenity helps VIZE find creativity in unexpected places, reminding him that both art and nature thrive on dedication and attention to detail.

“It’s about having the courage to let things develop, rather than expecting instant results,” he says, a philosophy that deeply influences his career and creative approach.

The contrast between these tranquil hobbies and the high-energy world of electronic music is striking, yet it’s precisely this dichotomy that keeps VIZE balanced.

“Spending time with my koi ponds and bonsai trees is the complete opposite of festivals and clubs. That’s what makes it so valuable—it’s my retreat, my little oasis of calm,” he reflects.

These moments of meditation allow him to recharge, gain new perspectives, and reflect on the bigger picture.

“Without this balance, I’m sure I wouldn’t be the artist I am today,” he acknowledges.

Through these practices, VIZE finds a harmonious rhythm that grounds him amidst the chaos of his career. Whether cultivating bonsai or watching koi glide effortlessly, these hobbies not only enrich his personal life but also inspire his artistic journey, fueling his creativity and reinforcing the patience needed to create something truly meaningful.

Through these practices, VIZE finds a harmonious rhythm that grounds him amidst the chaos of his career. Whether cultivating bonsai or watching koi glide effortlessly, these hobbies not only enrich his personal life but also inspire his artistic journey, fueling his creativity and reinforcing the patience needed to create something truly meaningful.

VIZE represents a fascinating example of how music can be both a vessel for universal emotions and a testament to personal authenticity. Listening to his productions, I feel there’s a special kind of alchemy in his ability to blend infectious rhythms with lyrics that resonate deeply with the human experience. His music doesn’t just move you physically; it touches emotional chords that remind you that, on the dance floor or through your headphones, you’re never truly alone. That’s what makes VIZE unique: his talent for translating complex feelings into a sonic language we can all understand.

His drive for evolution and learning. In an industry that often rewards repetition and formulas, he defies expectations by collaborating with artists from diverse genres and backgrounds, fearlessly exploring new musical possibilities. That creative bravery inspires me as someone who values authenticity above all else. VIZE reminds me that art isn’t about conforming but about taking risks, leaping into the unknown, and trusting that your roots and values will keep you grounded.

His drive for evolution and learning. In an industry that often rewards repetition and formulas, he defies expectations by collaborating with artists from diverse genres and backgrounds, fearlessly exploring new musical possibilities. That creative bravery inspires me as someone who values authenticity above all else. VIZE reminds me that art isn’t about conforming but about taking risks, leaping into the unknown, and trusting that your roots and values will keep you grounded.

Ultimately, what inspires me most about VIZE is his humanity. Behind the global phenomenon is someone who understands the value of authenticity, small gestures, and the profound impact his music can have on others’ lives. Artists like him don’t just entertain; they heal, unite, and remind us of what it means to be human. In a loud and fast-paced world, his music reminds us that emotion and connection are the most universal languages we have.