We had the good fortune of connecting with MAXI Nickou and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi MAXI, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Taking risks is a huge part of being a musician. You have to learn how to let go of financial stability. Going from a sales job with weekly paychecks to gigging full time, was definitely a difficult transition. However, with great risk comes great reward. If you want to chase a big dream you have to be comfortable with taking big risks.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is music. I release soul. pop, r&b records. I mainly play guitar and sing however I also play bass, piano and produce as well. I think what sets me apart from others is that I can sing and shred haha. Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy and getting to where I truly want to be in my career seems even more difficult. However I am always extremely grateful for what I have and have accomplished. Being a full time musician is definitely the most difficult thing I have done thus far in my life. My music and brand is sexy, feel good and upbeat. My goal really is to make people dance! I want to entertain and create a party, I want people to let go and just have fun. I am an entertainer at heart and always will be.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Venice: Left of peer Marina Beach
Hinano Cafe – Cheeseburger
Venice Whaler – Coctails
James Beach – Party!

Hollywood:
Luv2Eat – Thai Food
Black Rabbit Rose – Live Music
Adults Only – Party!

Westwood:
The Getty Museum

Culver City:
Margot – Restaurant and Fine Coctails
Seventy7 Lounge – Live Music

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My success so far has come from my peers supporting me. One of the best things someone can do to keep the dream alive is a simple, “I believe in you!” I’de like to personally thank my friends and family for always giving me the strength to pursue my dreams. In particular I’de like to thank my grandmother, who I lost this past year. She was always encouraging me to be creative and pursue my passion from a young age. It is to her that I owe everything, love you always, Mimi.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammaxi/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maxinickou/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9RACG5JJFAK0BodQX5NfXg

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.