Veteran DJ and producer Chris Martinez, one half of The Martinez Brothers, has announced that he is stepping back from his relentless touring schedule to focus on his health. The announcement, shared via his brother and producing partner Stevie Jr., comes after nearly two decades of global performances and high-energy sets around the world.
Stevie Jr. confirmed that while Chris takes time away from the road, the project isn’t over — the duo plans to return “stronger than ever.” In the meantime, Stevie will cover the duo’s upcoming gigs, including shows in Brazil and the United States.
Post from their instagram reads:
Hey everyone, Stevie here.
Wanted to share an update from our family to yours. My brother Chris is choosing to take some time off from touring to focus on his health and wellness. It’s a move I’m incredibly proud of him for making, and I’ll be holding it down for us both on the road for the next few months.
After almost 20 years of going non-stop, we’ve learned that real strength isn’t just about the grind—it’s knowing when to step back and recharge for the long run. This decision is about ensuring we can come back stronger than ever, to make 2026 our best year yet.
Our creative vision is as clear as ever, and we’re always building for what’s next. I promise to channel all the energy and vibes you expect from us at every single show. Thank you for being on this journey with us—your loyalty, friendship, and love are what make it all possible.
See you on the dancefloor.
Much love,
The Martinez Brothers
Why this matters…
In today’s electronic-music scene, artists often push themselves to the brink: marathon sets, multiple time-zone jumps, packed club runs and festival residencies. The expense in human terms — fatigue, burnout, mental and physical strain — is rarely discussed as openly as the spectacle of the shows themselves. Chris’s decision shines a spotlight on a crucial but sometimes ignored reality: at some point, the body and mind demand a break.
Giving himself space shows maturity and self-respect. It signals to fellow artists and fans alike that success isn’t just about the next gig or tour — it’s about longevity, sustainability and well-being.
Why health is especially important for a DJ
Physical stamina and longevity:
Touring often means long nights, standing under strobe lights, sustained loud sound, jet-lag, little sleep and irregular meals. A healthy body enables you to deliver peak performances consistently over years, not just weeks.
Mental wellness and creativity:
The DJ’s work isn’t just pressing play — it’s reading crowds, responding, adapting in real time. Fatigue or burnout dulls those instincts and can lead to uninspired performances or worse, creative stagnation. Prioritising mental health keeps the energy fresh and ideas flowing.
Travel and lifestyle stress:
Crossing time zones, bouncing between venues, high-adrenaline environments — all of this is taxing. Managing diet, hydration, rest and recovery becomes critical. Ignoring it might lead to frequent illness, injuries or loss of motivation.
Sound-health consequences:
DJs are exposed to loud sound comparable to their audience — hearing loss, tinnitus and ear fatigue are real risks. Protecting your auditory health is essential; after all, your ears are your primary instrument.
Setting an example:
As public figures, DJs have platforms. When touring artists take their health seriously, it normalises the message for younger producers, touring crews and fans. It helps shift the culture from “grind at any cost” to “perform sustainably.”
A positive takeaway
Chris’s move is not about stepping out permanently — it’s about pressing pause in the correct way. He and Stevie are signalling that the project continues, but they’re making space to recalibrate. For fans, it means fewer nights in the short-term, but hopefully a stronger return in 2026.
If you’re an artist, someone who tours or simply passionate about a creative life that demands energy and presence — this is a timely reminder to check in with your body and mind.