Rokit Meets | The Blurred Line Between Music And Fashion With Demi Riquísimo

From decks to stages to vintage stores, DJ and producer Demi Riquísimo gives us insight into his methods in creative expression. Raised in Detroit, but now London-based, Demi has gained worldwide recognition for his standout acid, italo house inspired sonic palette.

Comparing the nostalgia and timelessness of records to vintage clothes, Demi helps us cast our eye over the blurred line between music and fashion in our recent chit-chat and shopping experience.

Hey Demi, can you introduce yourself and tell us about your creative background?

I’m a producer and DJ under the alias “Demi Riquísimo”. I come from an electronic music background but I’ve always had some sort of instrument in my possession from a young age, whether it be a recorder or an electronic keyboard.

How did you get started in music?

It started in Bristol when I lived there at university. My love for its original sounding nightlife there translated into running my own events and eventually leaving my course to study music production, also in Bristol.

What have been your favourite moments in your career so far?

I feel my first set at Glastonbury in 2019 was a real standout moment for me. I also had a real sense of achievement after my set at Drumsheds in December.

How do you incorporate sustainability, second-hand and vintage clothing into your creative work and/or personal style?

I’ve always compared vintage shopping to record shopping. Many of the most desirable records are second hand l, original pressing club tracks from around 30 years ago. It’s a real digging culture, the need to find something others can’t get. It’s the same for vintage shopping. It’s quality over quantity which is the mantra I try and portray with my vinyl only label “Semi Delicious”.

Do you believe vintage/secondhand clothing contributes to creative expression? If so, how?

Absolutely. I feel a lot of clothing brands are fed to us through social media feeds etc. It’s almost as if an algorithm is telling us what we should wear. Finding one off pieces in a store you may never visit again has more of a serendipitous element and can also be so much more personal to you.

What advice do you have for individuals who are new to vintage shopping or are hesitant to explore this sustainable fashion option?

I think patience and an open mind are the keys. You won’t find what you want straight away but it makes finding something you love a whole lot more worthwhile.

Interview by Izabel Rose

Visuals by Lucien Pinchon