Wanting to learn more about the music festival that garners thousands of music enthusiasts to our tiny island, I picked the brain of founder, Julian Prince, about the event that will take place in French St-Martin; March 13-17, 2019.
What gave you the idea to create a music festival for the island?
“Our first event was in March 2016; although I had been dreaming about it for years! I have been an electronic music fan, DJ and producer since I was kid. I run several bars and restaurants in Montreal which gave me experience in the nightlife industry.”
How did you wind up in the Caribbean as a Montreal resident?
“My parents moved to the island from Montreal almost fifteen years ago, so of course I came to visit. It’s a second home to me and I wanted to do something that would give back to the island in the shape of new tourism. Post Irma this is especially important. The SXM Festival team is working tirelessly to help bring old and new visitors to experience this wonderful place.”
Since you have hosted the festival for numerous years, who have been some of your favorite headliners from previous years?
“Oh, that is like picking a favorite child! I’m proud to say we’ve had pretty much every major electronic music DJ or producer in the world come to visit us since we launched. We have been blessed. For our 2019 event, I’m especially looking forward to Ricardo and Zip.”
So, for our readers who haven’t heard of the SXM Festival before, what type of music and vibe can they expect?
“Our core musical style is underground house and techno. By underground I mean interesting or experimental music that you may hear in some of the world’s more forward-thinking clubs and festivals – or on discerning dance floors in cities like New York, London, Paris or Berlin. None of the cheesy, pop ‘EDM’ style of music that you may hear on your daytime radio station. This is deep, thoughtful, fun music for people with soul. “
Now that we have covered why island residents should attend this musical celebration, maybe you can share with our readers why St-Martin was the chosen location?
“It’s perfectly set up for this kind of event. The island a great mix of culture, gastronomy, nightlife, climate and fantastic beaches- plus it’s the friendliest island in the Caribbean! We hope to create a world class event that brings a new, younger and affluent tourist to the island – and provide enjoyment to locals too.
How would you like to see the festival continue to grow as the island continues to recuperate from Irma?
There are two main considerations when thinking about progression: respecting the capacity of the island and making sure the number of people attending the festival doesn’t grow so much that we lose the intimate vibe. While we want to share this experience with the world, it only stays special if we keep the family impression and intimacy.”
Let’s take a moment and speak to our local base and explain why they should attend this year’s festivities. What message would you like to share with St. Maarten/St-Martin residents?
“World class musical talent, sound, production, eco art, food and good vibes – people travel from all over the globe to experience SXM (literally as far as Japan, India and Australia!). If all of that was right on your doorstep, why would you not go and check it out?
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