Living the dream

COAST CROONER: With over a decade of experience in the music industry, reggae artist Chad Chambers has grown a reputation for his electric energy on stage. Picture supplied

Feel the rhythm of reggae as musician Chad “Boogieman” Chambers takes to the stage at Summer Frequencies.

Hailing from Tokomaru Bay, the acclaimed musician is best known for his ability to incorporate his Māori roots into his reggae compositions.

With more than a decade of experience in the music industry, Chambers credits his ongoing success to his disciplined upbringing.

“When I was young I looked up to my ancestors, elders, aunties and uncles who taught me about our traditions and customs. Especially my grandfather, who helped shape the man I am today.”

From a young age, Chambers was involved in kapa haka.

“I draw inspiration from kapa haka to compose my songs. In a way the values of reggae intertwine with that of the powerful kapa haka.”

At primary school, Chambers and his classmates were taken on a camping trip and asked to write about their dreams and aspirations.

“I wrote that I wanted to be a musician, especially a singer.”

However, the confirmation that he could become the artist he dreamed of came years later when he moved to Rangitīkei — the place he also met his partner.

“That's where I dreamed of being a singer/songwriter. That's where I realised that something within me just wanted to pursue a career in music.”

His love for reggae music comes from one of his musical idols — Bob Marley.

“His take on reggae inspired me. His take on politics and his message to spread love stood out to me.”

In 2011, Chambers entered Homai Te Pakipaki, an interactive singing competition, and went on to win.

The show gave him the exposure he needed to take his talent to the next level — the international stage.

“By winning that competition I was able to fulfil another dream of mine and that was to fly on a plane.

“That's why I always tell my kids, ‘follow your dreams. No dream is too big or too hard'.”

On his amusing title of Boogieman, the musician said he was still fresh in the music scene when he released a single titled Boogieman.

“As a child I remember being scared of the mythical creature that grown-ups used to frighten children. So I made a song about it.”

Over time, the song gained popularity, “more popularity than the artist who made it”, Chambers said.

So he added Boogieman to his name.

As for his musical repertoire, he has been a headline act at music events and festivals around the country, and has performed on the international stage.

Chambers has featured on some of the biggest reggae songs in New Zealand, including Souljah Feeling by Tomorrow People, which went platinum in Aotearoa.

He also featured in the remake of Herbs' Sensitive to a Smile as part of the Aotearoa Reggae All Stars.

Chad “Boogieman” Chambers is performing at Summer Frequencies, Awapuni Soundshell, February 4 and 5. Tickets from ticketspace.co.nz