When did you start with music?
My musical journey began when I was around 10 years old. Back then, I listened a lot to American rap and various rock bands like Nirvana and Metallica. Every time I listened, the electric guitar inspired me so much that I asked my parents if I could buy one and take lessons. And so it began.
After playing guitar for a few years, I discovered house music. A friend from the neighborhood had some equipment you could use to play tracks. I wouldn't exactly call it a DJ set, but it was close enough!
That's when I realized how deeply music resonated with me. I felt like I truly belonged there. DJing started to fascinate me more and more.
When I was around 16, I bought my first real DJ setup: the CDJ-800s with a Behringer mixer. From that moment, it became my number one passion, and I've never looked back.
What does music mean to you?
A lot. Maybe even everything.
I wake up and go to sleep with music. It's always part of my day. Besides producing, I listen mostly to Latin music, with cumbia and vallenato being my favorites.
Music gives me joy, energy, and a sense of direction in life. It's also helped me through tough times, and yes, there have definitely been some.
Does fashion play a role in your shows? And what do you pay attention to?
Absolutely.
I enjoy expressing myself through clothing. My style is a mix of street, casual, and baggy, and I choose pieces that feel right for me in the moment. I'm really into oversized tees and relaxed fits that give me freedom to move while performing.
Every time I perform or attend an event, I think about how I want to present myself and how that reflects visually on my socials. For SS25, I've been experimenting with layering oversized hoodies over fitted pants, creating that perfect streetwear aesthetic.
Sometimes I go a bit overboard because I want a new outfit for every show. But honestly, that's also how I discover new outfit combinations and personal styles. Whether it's vintage band tees, designer streetwear, or sustainable fashion pieces, I'm always looking for that next level fit.
How did Robin Nicolas come about? And where does the name come from?
In the beginning, I performed under two different stage names, but I never fully connected with either.
During the COVID period, a time of personal and artistic growth, I decided to start fresh under the name Robin Nicolas.
Robin is my first name, and Nicolas comes from my father, whose name is Nicolaas. I don't have a middle name myself, but I really liked how "Robin Nicolas" sounded. It felt authentic and professional.
I started testing the name in designs and artwork, and once I saw it, I knew this was it. I went all in from there.
What's your key to success?
For me, it starts with creating quality productions, always.
But I've also seen how powerful it is to have support from bigger DJs. That can really push your journey forward.
Today, social media is essential if you want to showcase your talent and build visibility. Whether you're posting fit pics in your latest designer drops or behind-the-scenes content from studio sessions, authenticity in both music and fashion resonates with people.
And finally, networking. I think it's one of the most underrated tools in the game.
Sitting behind your laptop sending emails or DMs isn't enough. Step outside your comfort zone. Talk to people in places where you want to perform, or connect with those who could help open doors. Sometimes the best connections happen at fashion weeks, pop-up shops, or even while shopping for that perfect oversized tee.
The journey continues. For the second episode of QUOTRELL STUDIOS, we link up with Robin Nicolas, where music meets movement and streetwear culture collides with electronic beats.
Tags: Robin Nicolas, DJ fashion, oversized tee, streetwear, SS25, baggy clothes, designer streetwear, sustainable fashion, vintage band tees, oversized hoodies, electronic music, house music, DJ style, music producer fashion, street style, contemporary fashion, urban wear
GO LISTEN NOW: https://on.soundcloud.com/fqndMTNq3oWB4qDaUX
