Marc Lenz is stepping into 2026 with a clear statement in the form of his new two-track EP, Breath, landing on Damian Lazarus’ Rebellion imprint.
After more than a decade of releases on Crosstown Rebels, 8bit Records, and his own Degree Records, this project places him in a new context while staying rooted in the deep, groove-led foundation he has refined over the years. Breath pairs peak-time drive with the kind of rolling, late-hour tension that has long defined his sets, and it marks a focused next chapter rather than a stylistic reset.
PRE-ORDER ‘BREATH’ HERE
This upcoming release provides the backdrop for this conversation.
While the EP is built for the dancefloor, our discussion moves beyond arrangement and club function into something broader: how Lenz defines community, how collaboration has shaped his direction, and how he maintains meaningful connections in an industry that often feels transactional.
From early encounters that shifted his career to the quieter ways DJs support one another, the interview ties his latest music to the relationships and values that continue to inform it.
Marc Lenz Interview
How do you personally define community in the context of DJ culture?
I love meeting people, playing with them, and spending quality time at a good after-party.
Of course, with the sheer number of events and artists out there, it’s always difficult to get close friendships, but I think, as always in life, the right people stay by your side. And in the end, we all want the same thing: a good time behind or in front of the decks.
Are there intentional things you do to stay connected with other DJs, promoters, or dancers outside of gigs?
Yes, absolutely. I’ve produced tracks with some artists I’ve met at gigs.
Social media has changed everything, of course, and communication has become much easier. And I naturally enjoy visiting other artists and promoters when I have time off. Over the years, some of them have even become close friends.
Can you share a moment where a relationship or community you built totally changed the direction of your career?
Many years ago, I met Gorge at an event, and then by chance outside of the music business.
Even back then, I loved his music and productions. Then, by chance, we played together several times, and today he’s one of my closest friends. I love his knowledge and approach to production. He’s the first person to hear my tracks. He gives me (honest) feedback. And sometimes his feedback really hurts 
What helps you nurture meaningful connections in an industry that often moves fast and surface-level?
I focus on people who give me a positive vibe and with whom I have a good time. People come and go, but the right ones stay by your side.
Do you think the role of community has shifted in an era where social media often replaces IRL circles?
Absolutely. But we shouldn’t forget that real life happens outside, not in front of a screen.
Many people define themselves by their likes; I define myself by the people I can turn to when I’m feeling down. Of course, social media has changed how people interact. I, too, would never have connected with some people if it weren’t for social media. But I also love having breaks from it.
What are the quiet or overlooked ways DJs support each other behind the scenes?
It can be through producing, collaborating on projects, requesting remixes, or simply offering positive feedback and pushing their work with promoters, or releases on their own record label.
How has your sense of responsibility to your community evolved over time?
I haven’t changed anything. I am who I am and I’ll stay true to myself
The post Marc Lenz on the Quiet Ways DJs Support Each Other Behind the Scenes appeared first on Magnetic Magazine.