(Courtesy of Andani Munkaila)

An exclusive interview with MAX about his musical roots, crowd connection and what students can expect next

BY SAAHITI KIRAN CHAMALA, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mason lit up on April 25 as pop sensation MAX headlined Mason Day 2025, delivering an electrifying performance that had students singing and dancing well into the night. The concert, held on the Fairfax campus, began at 8 p.m. and served as the high-energy finale to a day filled with carnival rides, food trucks, and student festivities.

Known for hits like “Lights Down Low” and collaborations with artists such as SUGA of BTS and Quinn XCII, MAX brought his signature mix of vibrant vocals, emotional storytelling and undeniable charisma to the Mason Day stage.

Ahead of the event, MAX shared his thoughts on music, inspiration, and creative resilience in an exclusive interview with Fourth Estate. When asked what he hoped students would take away from the show, his answer reflected the heart behind his music. 

“I just hope my passion for what I get to do every day shines through,” MAX wrote. “Whether that’s through just enjoying the experience or because a certain song gave them the inspiration to ask their crush out and just be unafraid to love, follow their seemingly impossible dream, or just accept and love themselves more with less judgment.”

MAX spoke candidly about the ups and downs of his career and the lessons he’s learned from navigating the music industry. “Every industry is brutal, especially music, but if you find that skill and love for it, you’re always going to push through the adversity,” MAX said.

He emphasized the importance of trusting your gut, setting boundaries and staying aligned with what feels authentic. “I think it’s easy to think doing certain things that don’t feel right to you might progress you in some way,” MAX said. “The longer I do this, the more I learn that the moves I’ve made that I’ve believed in the most have always been the most fulfilling.”

As a performer, MAX is known for his engaging live shows, and Mason Day was no exception. He shared in the interview that creating an inclusive and uplifting atmosphere is something he always aims for. “I love figuring out how to get the whole crowd into the show,” he said. “When a whole crowd gives into the experience, it’s one of my favorite feelings.”

(Courtesy of Andani Munkaila)

From student favorites like “Blueberry Eyes” to unreleased tracks hinting at what’s to come, MAX’s setlist delivered both nostalgia and excitement for the future. In the interview, he teased upcoming projects and collaborations, hinting that summer 2025 will be full of surprises. 

“Some of the music I’ve been working on for a year and a half and some just came recently—so long time coming. Hope people are into it.”

When asked about the kind of energy expected from Mason students, MAX responded ahead of the event with hopeful anticipation: “I’m manifesting the energy is high, the Patriots are electric, and that this is a memory we all treasure.”

Looking back on the night, it definitely was.