Mike Crook is a name that’s been buzzing in the West Coast hip hop scene, with hit collaborations for artists like Blueface, Doja Cat, Coi Leray, YG, and Tyga. But in 2025, Crook is gearing up for something new—his first major dive into the world of EDM with his upcoming project Crash Landing. We caught up with the rising producer to talk about his transition into electronic music, the meaning behind the project’s name, and what fans can expect from this exciting new chapter.
Mike, let’s start with Crash Landing. What’s the story behind the title?
Mike Crook: So, I’ve got this weird obsession with aliens and space, and I just thought it was the perfect title for a project that’s got an alien and UFO on the cover. It feels like a good representation of what this project is—sort of “crashing” into a new genre. I’ve been in the hip hop space for a while, but now I’m bringing my sound into EDM, and it feels like I’m landing somewhere new.
That’s dope! So, when can fans expect the release?
Mike Crook: Honestly, the release date is still up in the air right now. I wanted to drop the project randomly, but I think I’ll build up to it with some singles first. I want to test the waters and let the project grow gradually. So, the EP’s coming, but I’m going to release a few singles first to let people vibe with what I’m doing.
We’re hyped to hear it. What tracks can we expect on the project? Any familiar songs with a twist?
Mike Crook: Definitely! I’ve got remixes of some of my old hits, like Blueface’s “Baby” and Coi Leray’s “Blick Blick.” I also worked on an unreleased Tyga song that’s on his upcoming album. I’m going to drop the EDM version right after his release. I’m really excited for the remix of Next’s “Too Close” — that one’s been one of my favorites to work on. And then there’s “Paradise,” which is a track I did with Lourdiz. She’s got one of the best voices I’ve heard, and if you’re not familiar with her, she was just on Nicki Minaj’s album. I’ve known her for about six years, so it’s cool to see her growth.
You’ve got some serious collabs in the works! How many tracks are we talking about for the EP?
Mike Crook: The number’s still up in the air, honestly. I change my mind about the tracklist like every two hours (laughs). But it’ll definitely be a solid collection. I’m just letting it come together naturally. And are there any singles you’re planning to push first? Mike Crook: Yeah! I started with a remix of Coi Leray’s “Blick Blick” and then followed that up with a remix of YG’s “In The Dark” just to get people familiar with what I’m doing. But the real singles I’m excited about are the Next “Too Close” remix and “Paradise” with Lourdiz. I’m really pushing those as my lead tracks.
It’s clear you’re going all-in with the EDM sound. What inspired this shift, and why now?
Mike Crook: Honestly, I just wanted to challenge myself and do something fresh. In rap, I’ve worked with a lot of the artists I grew up listening to, and I felt like I hit a point where I needed a new creative outlet. EDM has always been something I loved, and now I’m diving into it for my personal artist stuff. I’ll still be producing rap songs for artists, but this EDM/Dance/Techno/House stuff is just for me to explore creatively.
Speaking of the EDM world, how has the West Coast scene in 2024 influenced your approach this year? Mike Crook: I’ve been thinking a lot about remixing classic West Coast tracks into EDM/Dance/Techno/House and giving those songs a whole new life in other countries and genres. The way Steve Aoki flipped Kid Cudi’s “Pursuit of Happiness” and how Imanbek remixed Saint JHN’s “Roses”—that really inspired me to take rap songs and turn them into dance tracks. The cool thing is, some of the songs I’m remixing, I actually produced the original rap versions. So, it’s like bringing these tracks full circle.
Mike Crook: Oh yeah, I’ve had some solid help with this project. Extendo and Swish have been crucial, especially when it comes to transitions and vocal editing. I’ve gotta give them a shoutout because this project wouldn’t sound the way it does without their input.
As someone who’s done so much for West Coast hip hop, how do you see your transition into EDM shaping your future in music? Mike Crook: It’s all about growth. I’m excited to bring something fresh to the table. I’m still going to produce rap songs for artists, but this project is me stepping outside of my comfort zone. I’ve worked with so many incredible artists in hip hop, and now I want to see how far I can push myself creatively in EDM. I want to have fun with it, and I hope fans feel the energy.
We’re definitely excited to hear it all. What can fans expect from Crash Landing that’s different from what they’ve heard from you before?
Mike Crook: I think they’ll hear a whole new side of me. The energy’s the same—high-intensity, feel-good music—but with EDM beats and a different kind of vibe. I’m taking my hip hop roots and flipping them into something that can light up a festival stage. It’s going to be fun, and I hope people are ready for something fresh.
Last question, Mike—any big plans for live shows or festivals? Mike Crook: I’m definitely planning on taking this new sound to the stage. I’ve always been about live energy, so expect to see me out there in 2025 bringing this new sound to life. Can’t wait to perform these remixes and original tracks for the crowd!
With Crash Landing on the way, Mike Crook is clearly taking his career in an exciting new direction. From West Coast bangers to high-energy EDM anthems, Crook’s journey is just beginning—and it’s sure to be one to watch.
That’s a great way to give West Coast music new global energy. Who are you collaborating with on this project? Any co-producers helping out?
