The Dutch DJ and producer embarks on a new chapter with a deeply personal 14-track project, blending pop and dance music while stepping into the spotlight as a vocalist for the first time on a full-length album. Martin Garrix has officially announced “MARTY,” his highly anticipated debut pop album, set for release on March 5, 2027, via STMPD Records and Darkroom Records. More than a decade in the making, the 14-track project marks a significant artistic evolution for the Dutch superstar, bringing his own vocals to the forefront while exploring a more intimate and vulnerable side of his musical identity. The album features an impressive lineup of international collaborators, including U2, Ed Sheeran, Madonna and Aitana, with additional names yet to be revealed. U2 frontman Bono has also played a pivotal role in the creative process, contributing as a songwriter and helping Garrix develop his confidence as a vocalist.
The announcement came during an exclusive Spotify Pop-Up Show celebrating the opening of Amsterdam Dance Event 2026, where Garrix surprised some of his most dedicated listeners with an early preview of several unreleased tracks.
From DJ Marty to Martin Garrix: The Story Behind the Album
The title “MARTY” is a tribute to Garrix’s earliest musical beginnings. Long before becoming one of the most recognizable names in electronic dance music, the Dutch producer performed under his first DJ alias, DJ Marty, accompanied by the slogan “Party with DJ Marty.”
By revisiting that childhood identity, Garrix reconnects with the young aspiring musician who first dreamed of sharing his productions with the world.
Rather than simply assembling a collection of songs, “MARTY” is designed as an autobiographical journey through the different stages of his life, tracing his childhood, personal growth, international breakthrough and experiences navigating fame.
The project also arrives as Garrix celebrates his 30th birthday year, reflecting on his achievements while embracing the feeling that his creative journey is only beginning.
Through introspective storytelling and uplifting pop-dance productions, the album aims to reveal the person behind the global superstar, exploring the balance between public success and personal identity.
“Catharina” Opens a Musical Journey Through Life and Eternal Love
The album opens with “Catharina,” a heartfelt tribute to Garrix’s mother, who played an essential role in nurturing his passion for music and encouraging him to learn musical instruments during his childhood.
From this deeply personal introduction, “MARTY” unfolds as a carefully structured narrative representing the cycle of life.
Each track symbolizes a different chapter, moving from childhood and adolescence to his rise as an internationally acclaimed DJ, before eventually exploring his vision of the afterlife.
Thoughtfully arranged transitions and key changes connect the individual songs, creating a cohesive listening experience intended to be appreciated as a complete musical journey.
At the heart of the album lies the concept of “eternal love”, reflecting Garrix’s belief that love, human connections and the energy we share with others can transcend life itself.
The project combines these emotional themes with feel-good production, introducing a new balance between Garrix’s electronic roots and a more pronounced pop-oriented sound.
Over 400 Songs and a Decade of Creativity: Bono Helps Garrix Find His Voice
The making of “MARTY” has been an ambitious undertaking, with more than 400 songs developed over approximately ten years before the final 14-track selection was completed.
One of the album’s most significant developments is Garrix’s decision to embrace his own voice.
Although he has spent years writing songs on guitar and recording demo vocals for other performers, the producer is now taking a more prominent role as a singer, adding another dimension to his creative identity.
A central figure in this transformation has been Bono, who served as a mentor throughout the process, offering vocal guidance and encouraging Garrix to approach his performances with greater emotional openness.
The U2 frontman’s involvement extends beyond vocal coaching, with songwriting contributions that further strengthen the album’s collaborative nature.
Developed through years of creative exchanges and relationships with artists around the world, “MARTY” also reflects the international scope of Garrix’s career, bringing together diverse musical influences and perspectives.
Martin Garrix: “I Still Feel Like I’m Just at the Beginning”
Speaking about the personal significance of the project, Martin Garrix explained:
“Even though I’ve been doing this for most of my life, I still feel like I’m just at the beginning. That’s really what this album is about – growth, moving through different chapters of life, and understanding that the love we give and the energy we put out into the world don’t just disappear when we’re gone. I want to take people with me on that journey and let them experience all those different stages of growth alongside me.”
His words capture the philosophy behind the album: a celebration of personal evolution, emotional connection and the experiences that shape an artist beyond the music.
A New Chapter Beyond Electronic Dance Music
Having established himself as one of the defining figures of his generation in electronic music, Martin Garrix is now preparing to showcase a different dimension of his artistry.
With “MARTY,” the Dutch producer is moving beyond the traditional boundaries of his DJ identity, placing greater emphasis on songwriting, storytelling and vocal performance without abandoning the electronic influences that have defined his career.
The involvement of artists such as U2, Ed Sheeran, Madonna and Aitana further highlights the album’s ambition to bridge the worlds of contemporary pop and electronic dance music.
While the complete tracklist and further collaborations have yet to be unveiled, “MARTY” already represents one of the most intriguing upcoming projects in Garrix’s discography.
“MARTY” will be released on March 5, 2027, via STMPD Records and Darkroom Records, offering listeners a closer look at the artist, the person and the journey behind one of electronic music’s biggest names.
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