A stalwart of the UK music scene, BADBOX is no stranger to electronic music’s elite. Having risen through London’s underground radio scene, he’s now a global phenomenon, headlining legendary venues like HïIbiza and PhiBeach Sardinia. Known for his fusion of Cypriot heritage and African-inspired beats, his journey intersects with Black Coffee’s rise, with BADBOX hosting Coffee’s legendary Apple Beats show. His releases on renowned labels such as Armada, MoBlack, Kazukuta, and Deep Root Tribe have solidified his place in the electronic music landscape and continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Interview With BADBOX:
Hi Mario, Happy New Year! How is your 2025 going so far? Did you set any New Year’s resolutions?
Happy New Year to you as well. 2025 is going well thanks. I’m having some much-needed family time in the UK after a really busy 2024. Which ended with 2 big trips in December, Dubai and then South Africa straight after. I don’t really do New Year’s resolutions, but I’ve definitely got some 2025 goals. To focus more on the things that are truly important. The music, my family, and having the right people around me.
What inspired you to take on the challenge of remixing such an iconic track as Bugged Out?
I was actually asked to remix the track by my friend, Steve Lawler, who is the label owner. And of course, I jumped at the chance. The track is iconic. I’ve always looked up to artists like CamelPhat and I knew remixing “Bugged Out” was going to challenge me. The fact that it featured vocals by Audio Bullies gave me an opportunity to push my creative boundaries and work with vocals I don’t normally work with. I’m used to working with more traditional Afrohouse vocals. This remix gave me a chance to tap into my UK breakbeat roots.
How has being based in London influenced your music and production style?
It’s had a huge influence. London has always been at the forefront of electronic music and continues to be a city of innovation and creativity. I’ve been involved in the city’s music scene for over 30 years now. I’ve been there during the creation of old-school hardcore, acid house, jungle, drum and bass, UK garage, and dubstep. London has always blended genres and even created some of its own. So yeah. Being based in London has played a massive role in shaping my music. And it continues to inspire me.
What are your thoughts on the current state of the electronic music scene in London and globally?
Electronic music, both in London and around the word, is really exciting at the moment. People still love to rave. They still love to go clubbing and dance. With digital platforms like Beatport & Spotify, it has made it easier for artists to share their music and connect with fans. It’s an exciting time to be a part of it. But on the flip side, technology has allowed pretty much anyone to make a dance track. And with AI being thrown in the mix, that’s going to open the doors to even more people being able to put out tracks. There are currently 10k tracks being released on Beatport a month. So, artists need to market themselves more than they would have before. It’s no longer just about the music. It’s how you push the music.
What’s the wildest or most unexpected thing you’ve experienced during a DJ set?
Good question. I can’t pinpoint one single moment, but I have found myself over and over again, looking up at the crowd in the middle of a DJ set and just seeing all the people dancing – and thinking to myself how privileged I am to be able to have that effect on people. Those pinch-yourself moments. They remind me why I love being a DJ and how dance music continues to bring people together.
What’s next for BADBOX in 2025?
Just working hard on my music and DJ sets you know. Collaborating with different artists. Honing my craft and digging deep into my own Mediterranean cultural roots as well as pushing the afro house genre to the next level. Yeah. I’d say going back to my roots. Back to the source
I can’t wait to share it with everyone.
