DR MAD has arrived on the music scene with a burst of excitement, releasing his debut single, MADNESS. This track is more than just music; it’s a bold showcase of DR MAD’s unique style, blending rap, hip-hop, and the high-energy rhythms of drum & bass. With a fearless approach, DR MAD isn’t just mixing genres—he’s reshaping them, creating a sound that pushes boundaries and invites listeners to explore fresh, vibrant beats. MADNESS pulses with energy and authenticity, resonating with listeners looking for music that’s both original and meaningful. This single captures the spirit of a new movement in music, speaking to those who crave a real connection to the art. DR MAD’s sound is a call to a new generation of fans eager for something fresh—a thrilling journey that mirrors the intensity of today’s world. As excitement builds, it’s clear DR MAD is set to leave a lasting impact on music, inviting us all to experience this exciting new path with him.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam (HBZVN): Tell us about the new project. What inspired the sound and themes?
DR MAD: The new single, “MADNESS,” draws inspiration from a raw, underground energy that for me, channels a sense of adrenaline and release. It captures the feeling of holding something inside until it erupts into pure chaos. The song is intense, immersive, and explosive.
HBZVN: How does this project differ from your previous work?
DR MAD: DR MAD: To me, this is the future of hip hop. Rhyming on this tempo and touching stages that see 40,000 plus is where every emcee should want to be. IMO. This project is like my final form, an experience that we’re all going through for the first time.
HBZVN: Can you share the story behind your lead single? What makes it special for you?
DR MAD: “MADNESS” marks the beginning of me sharing the story and planting the seed for the world of MAD (MY ARTIFICIAL DREAM). What makes this single special is that it’s not just about the music; it’s the start of a much bigger vision that will spill over into other forms of art and creation. Each release will reveal new pieces of the puzzle, gradually uncovering the full scope of this world.
HBZVN: Fashion plays a major role in hip hop or pop culture. How does your personal style reflect your music?
DR MAD: Hip hop leads in fashion because it dares you to be fearless. It’s not what you wear but how you wear it. The way I dress is pretty much parallel to the way I feel. It’s an extension of my mood, vibe and aura. I love to experiment with fashion and music, so when you hear my records, expect me to dress like how it sounds!
HBZVN: Did you collaborate with any designers or fashion brands for this project? If so, how did that come about?
DR MAD: For this shoot, I wore pieces from an incredibly talented Toronto fashion designer, L’Uomo Strano. I was introduced to his work through Zohair Keswani, the photographer for the shoot. I immediately fell in love with the oversized silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and stunning designs. The pieces perfectly captured the look and vibe we were aiming for, and it felt like the ideal fit for the project.
HBZVN: What do you think of the intersection of fashion and music in today’s culture?
DR MAD: I think that the traffic is heavy in this intersection. So much has been done in the fashion world already that I find we keep repeating trends. To advance fashion and music, we need to experiment more and FEEL more. That’s my goal as a creative. As long as we continue to push the envelope and think outside the box, we can make things interesting.
HBZVN: Are there any fashion trends you’re particularly excited about right now?
DR MAD: I really am loving the aura of fashion right now. It’s sophisticated and powerful. It has character that I can recognize and resonate with.
HBZVN: How would you describe your personal style?
DR MAD: I’d say my personal style reflects whatever energy I’m feeling in the moment.. Some days I’m all about rocking a suit, other days I’m into layered knits or mesh, and sometimes you’ll find me in jerseys or full denim. I don’t feel confined to one specific label—my style is pretty fluid.
HBZVN: What role does self expression play in your life and career?
DR MAD: I feel incredibly fortunate to have a career that lets me explore and express myself across so many different mediums—whether it’s through music, lyricism, fashion, film, or even modeling. Each form of expression gives me a unique outlet to share different parts of who I am. It’s not just about creating, but about connecting with people and sharing a story that feels authentic. For me, self-expression is a way to break boundaries and explore all the things that inspire and drive me.
HBZVN: Can you walk us through your creative process when working on music and visuals?
DR MAD: My creative process often starts from the bigger world around the song itself—I’m really inspired by themes and concepts. From there, the lyrics naturally start to flow, and I often find myself up til like 5am just writing, every night. I usually have a beat in my head that matches the vision. When I link up with Unity, my co-producer, our creative chemistry just allows us to bring these ideas to life in a way that feels effortless and true to the vision.
HBZVN: How do you ensure that your fashion choices complement your artistic vision?
DR MAD: I think every set, concept, and idea has its own unique vibe that calls for a specific feel when it comes to fashion. Piper, my creative partner, plays a great part in helping with styling and sourcing, making sure the wardrobe perfectly complements the overall vision of the project. Together, we ensure that I feel good in the pieces and that the fashion aligns with the artistic direction.
HBZVN: What message do you hope listeners take away from your new project?
DR MAD: I hope listeners connect with the thematic and conceptual elements of the project, but more importantly, I want them to embrace and release their inner madness.
HBZVN: How do you stay authentic to yourself while navigating the pressures of the industry?
DR MAD: I’m focused on my own journey and creating my own lane. I just follow my instincts and create music that resonates with who I truly am.
HBZVN: What can fans expect from you in the next few months? Any surprises in store?
DR MAD: There’s so much in the pipeline that I hardly know where to begin, and I definitely don’t want to give too much away! What I can say is that I’m incredibly excited about everything my team and I have been working on, and I’m truly grateful for all the opportunities. I have a feeling that 2025 is going to be an incredible year with a lot in store….
Stream MADNESS by DR MAD on all streaming platforms now and watch the music video here:
Model/Artist: DR MAD @whoisdrmad.
Producer: Melissa de Melo @meldemelo.
Director/Creative: Piper Ellis @d6rkangel.
Photographer: Zohair Keswani @zohairkeswani.
Makeup Artist: Jasmine Merinsky @jerkpierogi.
Designer: Mic Carter @luomostrano.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
