Underneath the Mouse Head: 5 Facts About Deadmau5

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By Brian Anthony Hernandez2013-12-24 13:39:19 UTC

Electronic music producer Deadmau5, who is known for wearing a costume mouse head during performances, recently set the headpiece aside for a Skype chat with Mashable.

Born Joel Thomas Zimmerman, the 32-year-old musician detailed his new digital project, a meme-infused car, 3D printing, music and more. Here are five facts from the interview:

1. He just launched a 'no bullshit' website for fans

Tired of wading through "bullshit" on Twitter and other social networks, Deadmau5 launched Deadmau5 Live, an online platform where he can interact more intimately with fans and keep them updated on "random crap" and his "stupid cat." The site went live Friday, a month after he first teased it. Mobile apps for the experience will arrive in March.

While the site offers free access, some of the interactive features can only be unlocked through a monthly membership ($4.99) or what Deadmau5 calls a paid "suckscription" model. Live streams only for subscribers will include tutorials from deadmau5, screen sharing, events and concerts. "Suckscribers" also can download full songs, leave comments on "MSG BOREDS," and occasionally interact with Deadmau5 in scheduled video chats.

2. A lover of Nyan Cat, he wants to do this to a Ferrari

Nyan Cat Ferrari

"I only know one dude who would do this to a half-million dollar Ferrari: me," he told Mashable via Skype chat. "LAWL. Suck it, world. Nyanyanyanyanyanyanyanyanyanyanyan."

3. He bought a 3D printer to make things like this

Deadmau5 uses a MakerBot Replicator to print 3D items at his home in Canada. He documents his creations on his Instagram account.

4. He's 'pro-responsibility' when it comes to drugs

When asked about the current "drug scene" in the electronic dance music community (particularly at shows and festivals), Deadmau5 rattled off a familiar sentiment he's used in the past: "I'm not anti-drug and I'm not pro-drug, but I am all for pro-responsibility."

5. He took vocals from a fan's tweet to finish a song

He once incorporated vocals a fan submitted via a tweet into one of his songs. The song, "The Veldt," made its way onto Billboard's Hot Dance Club Songs charts in the United States and Rolling Stones magazine named it one of the top 50 songs of 2012.

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