Marshmello: Is He a Rip-Off of Deadmau5 or His Own Unique Artist?

The comparison between Marshmello and Deadmau5 often arises due to their use of distinctive masks and branding. However, while both artists share a focus on electronic dance music (EDM), they have different musical styles and artistic approaches.

Deadmau5: A Significant Figure in EDM Since the Mid-2000s

Joel Zimmerman, better known by his stage name Deadmau5, is known for his progressive house and electronic music, often characterized by complex production and a more underground sound. He has been a significant figure in the EDM scene since the mid-2000s, with his innovative work and artistic vision setting the stage for many in the genre.

Marshmello: A Younger Audience-Focused Commercial Sound

Christopher Comstock, who is known by his stage name Marshmello, emerged later and is known for a more commercial sound that blends elements of future bass, pop, and trap. His branding featuring a smiling marshmallow mask is aimed at a younger audience, focusing heavily on mainstream appeal and accessibility.

Visuals and Branding: Different but Not Indictment for Rip-Off

While some critics argue that Marshmello's branding is reminiscent of Deadmau5, it is important to note that both artists have carved out their unique identities within the EDM landscape. The similarities in their visuals do not necessarily imply that one is a rip-off of the other. Rather, they reflect different branding choices within the genre.

Direct Influence or Independent Inspiration?

Some argue that Marshmello's head idea was directly inspired by Deadmau5. However, the fact remains that Deadmau5 and Marshmello have very different musical styles: Deadmau5 mainly makes trance and house songs, while Marshmello produces trap and future bass. Just because they both have helmets does not immediately mean one is a rip-off of the other.

Deadmau5, with his career spanning from 1998 to the present, has a much longer history and a more established presence in the EDM scene. Marshmello's project only started in 2015, gaining attention in early 2016 with the release of "Alone" on Monstercat, far after Deadmau5 had released five studio albums between 2008 and 2014.

Challenging Marshmello's Popularity and Impact

While Marshmello has gained significant popularity, many still argue that he is overrated and generic. Critics note that Deadmau5 is a genuine pioneer of the genre who has not received enough recognition for his innovations.

Marshmello's music has brought electronic dance music to a wider audience, but some believe that Deadmau5 has more significantly influenced the genre in a more profound way.

To be fair, Marshmello is alright, but the impact of what he did for electronic music is often overshadowed by Deadmau5, a true innovator and trendsetter in the field.

Conclusion: A Fresh Perspective

Whether Marshmello is a rip-off or not is a matter of perspective. While there are similarities in their branding, their musical styles and artistic approaches are vastly different. Deadmau5's pioneering work and early presence in the EDM scene make it more complex to label Marshmello as a direct rip-off, even if the visuals might seem similar. Marshmello has created his own unique sound and aesthetic, which resonates with a new generation of music fans. Nevertheless, Deadmau5's contributions to the genre cannot be ignored or reversed.