Monstercat events head Max Nied on Compound’s artist focus (Interview)

This summer the Monstercat Compound Block Party returned to Vancouver for the 6th year running. The annual free street electronic music festival featured a robust lineup with some of the biggest names in EDM such as Godlands, Ace Aura, Blanke, Crankdat, and more. In addition to live music, the event included video games, food trucks, the Monstercat Claw Machine, interactive art experiences, and beer gardens.

People showed up from all around the PNW for this wonderful event. DMNW sat down with Max Nied, Monstercat’s Head of Events, to learn more about the label’s community events and the annual Monstercat Compound Block Party.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Monstercat (@monstercat)

DMNW: How did the Compound come about? And how has it grown over the years?

Max Nied: This is the 6th year we’ve done this event. It started as a block party in our parking lot for our staff and neighbors. We started doing it to build our brand and increase our recognition within the community. Since then, it has really grown into a staple annual event for the Vancouver community. So many people look forward to it every year now and we are so happy that we get to showcase our amazing talent to the community.

What inspires you to put on the events you do?

We understand that artists make most of their money by touring. Although we pride ourselves in artist sustainability and how great we are at generating streams for our artists, one of the other ways we help is by helping them get as many festival bookings as possible.

For a lot of DJs, a festival booking makes them more money than they’ll make with royalty checks year-round. A lot of my job is helping artists at Monstercat get as many opportunities as possible worldwide. It helps put money in their pocket and incentivizes them to keep working with us.

Who is an emerging artist we should watch out for?

All of our artists are so talented and incredible. They all present such different sounds and there’s something for everyone on our roster.

Check out emerging artists on Monstercat and stay tuned for future events. We look forward to next year’s Compound Block Party!