Ava Max, known for her chart-topping hit “Sweet but Psycho,” has opened up about a terrifying experience she faced during a recent trip to Miami. In an interview with Rolling Stone, the 32-year-old pop star recounted an incident that left her feeling anxious about elevators.
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Max, whose real name is Amanda Ava Koci, recalled a harrowing moment when she found herself stuck in an elevator at the Edition hotel in Miami, an incident that escalated dramatically as she fell five floors. Reflecting on the experience, she described it as “really crazy and scary.” In a candid admission, she remarked, “I didn’t think I would sing ever again, but we survived.”
Describing the moment of her plunge, Max painted a vivid picture. She was enjoying a relaxing day at the beach, sipping coffee and sporting a hat, when the elevator malfunction occurred. “Boom, my hat flies, my coffee goes all over me. And I’m just like, ‘Am I in a nightmare?’” she said. However, she noted that in the immediate aftermath, it was hard to comprehend the seriousness of the situation. “You don’t really realise in the moment how crazy it is until after, because in the moment, you’re just trying to live,” she added.
Since the incident, Max has developed a heightened awareness of elevators, which she now describes as “pretty terrifying.” This newfound fear has led her to opt for the stairs whenever possible. “Every time I get on an elevator now, I have a problem,” she confessed, revealing her determination to avoid similar situations. Just recently, she chose to take the stairs for a 10-floor ascent.
Despite the distressing events in Miami, Ava Max has continued to thrive in her music career. Her last album, “Don’t Click Play,” was released in August 2025, and she has since released several singles, including “Kill It Queen” and “Out of Your Mind.” Additionally, she teamed up with fellow artist BIA for the single “Energy,” which was created in celebration of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Max expressed particular enthusiasm about her collaboration with BIA. “Bia’s great. I really wanted her on the song, so I reached out personally,” she shared. She highlighted her commitment to featuring a female artist on the track, stating, “First of all, I want a female on it. That was number one.” Max has long been an admirer of BIA’s work and was pleased with how the collaboration turned out. She praised BIA’s impressive skills in the studio, noting, “She was, like, a one-take wonder. The second verse, she killed it in one take. It’s incredible.”
As Max navigates her way through the aftermath of her frightening elevator experience, she continues to work on new music, expanding her repertoire and drawing in fans from around the world. Her ability to blend personal experiences with creativity is a hallmark of her artistry, endeavours that resonate strongly with her audience.
Ava Max’s tale serves as an ominous reminder of how quickly circumstances can change, even during what are supposed to be enjoyable moments. While her brush with danger may have altered her perspective on elevators, it has not deterred her spirit or passion for music. As she forges ahead, fans can expect more exciting projects from the acclaimed artist in the near future.