MAX Live in Manila: Meeting the Multi-Platinum Star

Multi-platinum American singer and actor Max Schneider a.k.a MAX just charmed the Filipino crowd with his series of mall shows from April 5 to 7 in Metro Manila. Performing his hit tracks like “Blueberry Eyes,” “It’s You,” and “Stupid In Love,” fans sang along and swooned over the singer.

Just before he hit the stage at UP Town Center in Katipunan last April 5, he took his time to meet the press, all the while sporting a sweet and wide smile. The Beat Asia had a chance to ask him a few questions about his career, including his proudest moment as an artist, to which he replied: “One that I always come back to – I’m from New York City and I am a big fan of New York Knicks – I got to perform at the play-offs at half time in Madison Square Garden,” saying it was a ‘pinch-me’ moment for him since it has always been his dream.

When asked which song from his “Love in Stereo” tour setlist is his favorite one to perform, MAX said “Woah.” While he added that the said song is not included in the mall show setlist, he’d love to come back to the Philippines to perform it for his fans. His personal favorite out of his songs, however, is “Love Never Felt Like This” and the singer graciously belted a line.

During the said press conference, he also mentioned meeting a lot of Filipino artists, including Pio from Lola Amour. When asked if he has plans to collaborate with Filipino artists, he answered that he would love to and introduced his half-Filipino bandmate Cody Dear, who co-writes some songs with MAX.

To his fans, his message was simple: “I love you. Salamat (Thank you). Thank you so much for listening and I can’t wait to give everybody a hug if I can while I’m here!”

Around 7:30 PM, the four-member P-Pop girl group Dione kicked off the show with a cover of Katy Perry’s “The One That Got Away” and Blackpink’s “Tally,” along with a show-stopping performance of their singles, “Bling Bling” and “Break You Down.”

After Dione’s thrilling performance, MAX together with his bandmates Ryan (bass guitar) and Cody (Saxophone and Keyboard), took to the stage.

“Ang init, ‘no (It’s hot, right)?” MAX asked before removing his jacket, eliciting a roar from the crowd. He proceeded to sing “Love Me Less” featuring Quinn XCII, followed by his song with Felly called “Acid Dreams.”

One of the most-awaited performances, however, was “Stupid In Love,” which features LE SSERAFIM’s Yunjin. The crowd went wild and MAX asked fans to sing one chorus. With the fans swiftly taking on the challenge, they sang at the top of their lungs as the band stared in awe.

The band also performed his original songs “Butterflies” and “Checklist,” along with a cover of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” After that, he serenaded the listeners with “Blueberry Eyes” featuring BTS Suga (yes, even the rap part!) and “It’s You” featuring Keshi. He ended the show with a performance of “Lights Down Low” and a meet and greet with some lucky fans!

Presented by Ayala Malls and Warner Music Philippines, the second show took place at Ayala Malls Manila Bay on April 6 and at One Ayala on April 7.