Introducing Benn Rolls-Sheppard, also known as Chiccoreli.
At Clink, we’re all about supporting inspiring creatives who are making moves in their field and championing them in any way that we can. This month, we’re introducing our readers to local legend Chiccoreli: a drum and bass DJ and radio host on the Liquid Lowdown.
This is the first of the Clink People blogs, and we’re excited to have Chiccoreli kicking things off. We sat down with him to talk inspiration, side-hustle and the joys of living in New Zealand.
So Chiccoreli, tell us a little bit about yourself and what makes you tick
I’m a radio host, DJ and promoter from the Liquid Lowdown, with a focus on the smoother, more soulful side of Drum & Bass. I’m originally from London but have been so happy to be able to call New Zealand my home for the past eight years.
How do you personally express your creativity?
My creativity comes in many forms. Certainly through my music. It gives me immense satisfaction that the music I fell in love with, I now get to play to different audiences around the world, who in turn love it. That keeps me pushing to find new music every day.
Apart from touring the country and DJing all year round, I own and run a vintage clothing company called Fresh Vintage, which I created last year through my love of collecting vintage clothing. In particular, we’ve got loads of garms from the 90’s era. I’ve always had a passion for clothing and expressing myself through fashion, never following the trends and always wearing what I personally liked. I often get asked when I got into 90s fashion, but to be honest, I’ve never left the decade!
What led you to start pursuing your dreams?
I made up a saying, “hobbies that have turned into jobbies.” Both Liquid Lowdown and Fresh Vintage started as a hobby I enjoyed doing and then naturally (although still through hard work) started earning me money.
Can you share some insights into your creative process?
Knowledge is power. Rather than make snap decisions of what you want to do and go in with two feet first, make sure you do your homework, find out who is doing similar things in the same market and then bring in your own individuality. That individuality will separate you from the rest.
What gets you inspired?
Inspiration can come in many forms. Living in NZ is a great start. I feel so blessed to be here and feel like the luckiest man in the world. It drives me to be the best person I can be, which in turn keeps me motivated and inspired.
What do you love most about NZ and living here?
I feel very lucky to live in a beautiful home, surrounded by native bush. All I need to do is sit on my sofa and look out to an amazing view of indigenous trees and birds. But I also get away as much as possible to enjoy the beach, the mountains and the rivers in NZ.
Is there a place in NZ that is particularly special to you?
It would have to be Taranaki, where my incredibly amazing wife (and first lady of D&B), Tali, is originally from and where we got married on Ahu Ahu beach almost 10 years ago!
Why do you think it’s important to get out in nature and spend time outdoors?
One of the big factors in both the Liquid Lowdown and Fresh Vintage is keeping a big profile online. Averaging 4-5 hours a day on my phone and laptop, the need to get away from technology and enjoy the outdoors is more important for me than most. But I think it’s something we can definitely all benefit from.
Thanks, Chicco!!
If we were to take a leaf out of Chiccoreli’s book – and that’s probably something we should all do – it would be in finding passions and following dreams, because if his story is anything to go by, you never know where a hobby or side-hustle can take you! Whether or not they bring you money or recognition, at Clink we’re whole-hearted believers that finding passions and hobbies are one of the best and most important ways to truly enjoy your every days.
So, what gets you inspired?
Please feel free to email us with your stories, we would love to hear from you!
More photos from Chiccoreli and the photoshoot he did with anklips.
