Unsigned Spotlight: The Deep End
The Deep End (Max McGill) is an alternative rock project that blends elements of pop, rap, and metal.
Please list your name.
Max McGill aka The Deep End
For starters, what bands were you a part of prior to your solo project, The Deep End?
I was in two bands called One-Click Waiting, and Cheap Shots. The music still exists if people feel like looking. Can’t speak too highly of it though, TDE is the first project that has ever meant this much to me. What’s the origin of that name? True story - when TDE started, it was a three-piece band. We came across an Instagram account called “depend.” We thought it looked cool and reached out to the account about purchasing the account name. Upon further investigation, we found out that “depends” are adult diapers. So, to us, it was an easy fix. We split the word up into “THE DEEP END.” For a band name that sounds somewhat serious, the story behind it is just ridiculous.
What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?
I would say the overall theme of my songs is hope, and community. I want people who listen to TDE to know that they’re not alone in whatever they’re going through. So when writing lyrics, I try to dig deep and be as honest with myself as possible. Because if just one person listens to that song and feels understood, then I’m doing my job.
Whether someone directly relates to what I’m talking about, or simply thinks “Hey, I’m not the only one who’s struggling” - I just want to create a community based around my music that feels inclusive to everyone who hears it.
And in response to the topics of songs changing over time - I really hope they do! Whenever I’m following up a previous release, I make it a point to create something entirely different then what was done before. I can’t predict the direction the music/topics will go, but if the topics aren’t evolving, it wouldn’t feel like I’m making any progress as a songwriter, or just a human in general.
What artists are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
There’s plenty - but for different reasons. Fever 333 is a massive inspiration to me, in terms of how they treat their fan base. To them, everything is about the fans and the culture. I’ve always respected that, and look up to them because of that. Musically - Bring Me The Horizon, Nothing Nowhere, Machine Gun Kelly, and Biffy Clyro have a big influence on my songs as well.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to get into music?
I’m not going to lie - I wanted to be Justin Bieber when I was 12-13 years old. That dream ended as soon as I saw Green Day in concert for the first time. I left the show and said to my dad, “Forget being Justin Bieber, I’m going to be in a BAND.” And since then, that’s all I’ve ever wanted to do!
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, etc …
First thing, I need to eat right. Concert days are actually some of the only days I wake up and eat a full breakfast. If I don’t, come showtime, I’m feeling ready to pass out. As long as I have my food, my throat coat tea, and more then enough time to load-in and prepare everything, I’m good to go.
What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?
When the song “Not Safe” off of the Broken Souls EP hit 200k streams on Spotify. That was a milestone I never thought one of my songs would hit. It’s surreal to see.
If you could tour with any musical act, past or present, who would they be and why?
My dream tour in the present would be with either Foo Fighters or Green Day. If we’re talking past - Nirvana. Because... common.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Huge thanks to Kill The Music, and anyone who read this. I know times are tough right now, but keep your head up! We’re all in this together. Also, keep an eye out for EP2 coming very soon.