“I’m bringing substance back to the music,” vows Saginaw, Michigan rapper Max Hilli. “I’m bringing versatility while letting you know that Hip Hop is still alive.” After a handful of successful self-released music videos and over a dozen mixtapes, the Midwest mainstay is preparing his most significant release to date, an EP overseen by multi-platinum veteran Bizarre, cofounder of the group D12. “Bro led me to the water, and now I’m drinking.” Max Hilli (short for Marquis Hilliard) has a journey that begins on Saginaw’s east side. Although the city may not have the notoriety of Detroit or Flint, it packs a punch. There, Max was raised by a single mother in a large family. Around town, Hilli collected a reputation from an early age. In late 2023, a mutual friend connected Max's music to Bizarre. The 25-year veteran recognized Max Hilli's unique talent. Max recorded over 30 songs, amassing an EP that will introduce him to a wider base. Hilli likes sports comparisons and analogies, especially at this time in his career. "I feel like I've done high school, done college, and now this is me in the league." The veteran wanted to prepare himself for the spotlight. "I stayed the whole four years, even though I'm a star player. I wanted the experience, and now I feel ready." This emerging artist is no rookie. Instead, he is a dedicated multi-talent, father, and youth mentor focused on legacy. "Everybody has something to contribute to the world, and I want to give mine."