Inside the Maintenance Shop, a student wearing cargo shorts steps onto the stage. While spectators look on, the student begins to rap.
Maxim Duncan, also known as Mr. Maxim, is a senior at Iowa State University studying computer science with a minor in applied AI. On the side, Duncan raps at Open Mic Nights at the Maintenance Shop and releases music on Spotify and Apple Music. While Duncan has a lot on his plate with homework, graduation and the ISU Symphony, he still finds time to pursue his own passion of making and performing his music.
Is music something you see yourself doing long-term?
“Even though I’m majoring in computer science and I’m looking for a tech job, I still want to continue music outside of my job. I feel like this will be a lifelong passion of mine. I don’t think I could ever give up music. I’ll always find myself having a little music room in my future home.”
Who have you taken inspiration from?
“I grew up listening to U2 because it was one of my mom’s favorite bands. I’m really inspired by Watsky, as I enjoy his beats and his unique lyricism and the topics he raps about.”
What is the process like for writing lyrics?
“Whether it’s a world event or a personal struggle I’m going through, I need to have motivation, need to have a fire under me to get the writing process started.”
Where did your love of music start?
“It was mainly an exposure thing from some friends. A music teacher had ‘bring a friend day,’ and I went with one of my friends. My parents both supported me and said if this is something I want to do, then I should definitely go for it. That’s when I realized this was something I wanted to do.”
Before you release a song, who do you gather input from?
“I usually tell my close circle of friends. I give them a demo of a song I’m about to release and ask them what they think about it. They’ll give me some pointers, and I’ll make some changes to the song. I ask all my friends who play music, and I also ask those who don’t. People who don’t play music give a good perspective on a listener’s point of view.”
How do you as a student juggle music, clubs and schoolwork?
“I’m a very schedule-oriented person. I enjoy using my calendar and splitting my days up. Between 2 to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays is a time specifically for music. 4 to 6 p.m. is when orchestra rehearsals happen, so I have time two hours beforehand to focus on my own music.”
What are some words of encouragement you have for students who may be interested in making music?
“Find a reason to write a song. There are times when an artist will scrap a song because it ends up not meaning anything to them. Find what motivates you, be creative and don’t be afraid to take inspiration from some of your favorite artists.”