

Interviewing two figures whose influence spans internationally is a privilege—one that is both deeply personal and profoundly inspiring. The first, Dieter Bohlen, is a musician and producer whose work with Modern Talking shaped the soundtrack of my youth. Their music was more than just a collection of melodies; it became an enduring companion to life’s most memorable moments, evoking emotions that continue to resonate across decades.
The second is Maxim Berin, a visionary impresario behind some of the most distinguished cultural private events. His signature creation, the Big Art Festival, has grown into a phenomenon, captivating discerning audiences with its unique blend of artistry and sophistication. With each new endeavor, he continues to redefine the landscape of international entertainment.
At the very start of 2025, I had the privilege of speaking with both of them for Chic Icon magazine. Our conversation delved into the recent Big Art Festival in Dubai—an event still vibrating with the energy of the new year—as well as their exciting plans for the future, which promise to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Interview with Dieter Bohlen


First off, Happy New Year and congratulations on the 40th anniversary of Modern Talking! How does it feel to reach such a milestone in the band’s history?
Thank you! Forty years of Modern Talking—that’s quite something, isn’t it? It’s incredible to realize how many people our music has reached over the years. The fact that our songs have stood the test of time is something truly special, and I couldn’t be more grateful. When we started, I never imagined that, decades later, our music would still be playing around the world and connecting with new generations. That’s the greatest reward for any artist—knowing that what you’ve created continues to live on and inspire people.
Looking back, what do you think has been the most significant change in the band’s sound and style since its formation?
In the beginning, it was all about the 80s—big synth sounds, catchy hooks, and that unmistakable disco feel. Over time, we’ve adapted while staying true to the essence of Modern Talking. The key has always been striking a balance between nostalgia and a fresh sound, which is what fans love most. I think that’s what has allowed us to remain relevant—evolving with the times while keeping the magic of the original sound intact.
Music trends change constantly, but good melodies and strong emotions are timeless. The biggest challenge has always been keeping the sound fresh without losing that signature Modern Talking style. Some artists reinvent themselves completely, but for me, it was more about refining rather than changing. Fans expect a certain energy, a certain feeling when they hear our music, and I always try to preserve that.


You recently collaborated with the Big Art Festival. How did this partnership come about, and what did it mean to you personally and professionally?
It was a fantastic experience! The opportunity came through my agency, and I thought, Why not try something different? The festival is a fusion of art, music, and entertainment, which really appealed to me. Being part of such a creative space was inspiring—not just professionally, but personally as well.
What I loved about the Big Art Festival is that it’s not just about music; it’s about creating a whole atmosphere where different forms of art come together. That’s something you don’t see every day. As an artist, it’s always exciting to be part of something unique, where people experience music in a way that goes beyond just a concert. The energy of the festival was something truly special, and I was honored to be a part of it.
Your performance at D Maris Bay in Turkey for the Big Art Festival was a major event. What was it like to perform there?
Absolutely incredible! The setting, the atmosphere, the passion of the audience—it was unforgettable. Performing in Turkey is always special because the fans are so enthusiastic. The energy in the air was electric, creating one of those rare moments where the connection between artist and audience is truly magical.
It wasn’t just another concert—it was an experience. The location itself added to the magic. Imagine performing in a stunning place surrounded by the sea, with an audience that is completely immersed in the moment. It was pure magic. I’ve performed all over the world, but this was one of those performances where everything just clicked perfectly.


How was your New Year’s performance at the Big Art Festival?
Unforgettable! The energy in the venue was something you could feel in every note, every lyric. From the moment we stepped on stage, the audience erupted—singing, dancing, completely immersed in the music. It was a shared experience, as if we had all become one big musical family.
For me, music is about connection. When you see thousands of people singing your songs, feeling every word, it’s an indescribable feeling. The Big Art Festival created the perfect setting for that kind of energy. Everything—from the atmosphere to the incredible audience—was just perfect. It’s a memory I will cherish for years.
As an artist with decades of experience, what advice would you give to young musicians just starting out?
Stay true to yourself but always listen to your audience. Success comes from finding a balance between your own artistic vision and what resonates with people. And most importantly—never give up. Everyone faces ups and downs, but persistence is what makes the difference.
A lot of young artists get discouraged when things don’t happen overnight. But success in music is a marathon, not a sprint. You have to keep pushing forward, even when things don’t seem to be going your way. If you love what you do and you’re passionate about your music, that will come through in your work. And when that happens, people will recognize it.
Interview with Maxim Berin


Why did you decide to invite Dieter Bohlen again for the New Year’s concert? What, in your opinion, makes his performances so unique and perfectly suited for such a grand event?
Inviting Dieter Bohlen to the New Year’s concert was a completely logical decision. His performances are truly unique, and he has an incredible ability to establish a special connection with the audience. Dieter doesn’t just perform his hits — he creates an entire atmosphere that leaves an unforgettable impression. It’s this ability to merge music and emotions, to make each concert personal and unique, that makes him the perfect choice for such an important event as a New Year’s concert.
What makes his performances so special is his versatility. Whether he’s performing his classic hits or a new piece, he always finds a way to make every moment come alive and resonate with the audience. He knows how to create an atmosphere where the audience becomes an integral part of the show. For an event as significant as the New Year’s concert, we wanted to create something meaningful, vibrant, and unforgettable — and Dieter is the ideal choice for that.
I could see it in the reaction of our guests – Dieter’s performance was absolutely spectacular, it created a real sensation! It was so emotionally unforgettable, especially when the entire audience sang his songs in unison. As I looked into the eyes of the guests, I could feel the magic happening right in front of me. There was a kind of connection, a shared moment, where the music brought everyone together in a way that was almost beyond words. It was as if time stood still, and for that brief moment, we were all part of something extraordinary. The energy, the emotion, the unity – it was a truly magical New Year celebration.


You invited Dieter Bohlen to perform in Turkey at D Maris Bay. How did this idea come about?
It was a natural choice. I’ve always admired Dieter’s talent and his ability to connect with audiences. His energy was a perfect fit for the unique atmosphere we wanted to create at D Maris Bay. The venue itself—breathtakingly beautiful yet intimate—added another layer to the experience. From the start, everything fell into place effortlessly, thanks to the synergy between all the teams involved. The result was something truly unforgettable.
How would you describe your experience in 2024? What were some of the most significant events or achievements for you this year?
2024 was a year of incredible growth, both personally and professionally. One of the biggest milestones was the expansion of the Big Art Festival, which has now become a major cultural event on the international stage. For me, it’s more than just a gala or a concert—it’s about crafting an entire story, an atmosphere where music, art, and emotions come together. Seeing the festival evolve and attract more people worldwide has been truly rewarding.
Every festival is unique, and in 2024, we really pushed boundaries. We brought together some of the biggest names in music and art, created breathtaking performances, and introduced new concepts that made each event unforgettable. Our goal has always been to create something that isn’t just an event but a cultural movement, and I think we’ve succeeded in that.


What are your plans for 2025? Can we expect more collaborations with renowned artists?
Absolutely! 2025 will be a year of exciting new projects that push creative boundaries even further. The Big Art Festival will continue to grow, reaching new locations and expanding its audience. We’re starting with an event in St. Moritz on January 26th during the polo tournament finals, followed by appearances at major events like the Cannes Film Festival, Formula 1 in Monaco, Wimbledon in London, and the Monaco Yacht Show.
We’ll continue working with global stars while also discovering fresh talent, ensuring each event is unique and unforgettable. Our goal is not just to create events but to shape cultural phenomena. With innovation, creativity, and attention to detail, we’ll continue delivering experiences that leave a lasting impact.
2025 is set to be an extraordinary year, and I can’t wait to see how the journey unfolds.
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