Dutch singer Dries Roelvink has revealed that he became a millionaire through business ventures outside music, including selling millions of branded meatballs.
The 67-year-old performer shared the news ahead of the fifth season premiere of his reality show De Roelvinkjes on Videoland, scheduled for August 1, 2026.
In an interview with De Telegraaf, Roelvink explained that his desire for public life began in childhood, contrasting his ambitions with his father's quiet lifestyle.
"My father was a gray mouse who didn't want to stand out," said Roelvink.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Roelvink decided early on to pursue a high-profile career in entertainment.
"I always thought: if I can ever do it, I'm not going to live like you.
I want a life in the spotlights, in the front row," said Roelvink.
Alongside hundreds of annual performances and viral TikTok content, Roelvink built substantial financial security through smart investments, frugal management by his wife, and his commercial food line.
"To be honest with you, about fifteen years ago I didn't have to think about money anymore," said Roelvink.
Addressing his primary non-entertainment revenue stream, the singer calculated the gross returns from his successful meat enterprise.
"We have now sold about fourteen million of them. You do the math," said Roelvink.
Despite his financial independence, Roelvink stated he has no plans to retire from performing or stop spending time with his family.
He avoids spending earnings on luxury items to preserve an inheritance for his children.
"If I don't get applause for a few weeks, I'm going to miss that," said Roelvink.
Comparing his vocal talents and longevity to rising Dutch artists like Rutger van Barneveld and Justen de Wildt, Roelvink expressed confidence in his unique appeal.
"I can't say that those are better singers. I have a lot of warmth in my voice, and that is sometimes underestimated.
In the Netherlands, the sympathy factor is also important, and luckily I have that attached to my backside," said Roelvink.
He added that he remains completely unafraid of his success coming to an end as he continues performing in large venues alongside younger acts.
"It doesn't stop. It's going so well.
I still see it when I perform in a large sports hall. Before me stands Samuel Welten and after me Justen what's-his-name.
Then I think: they still have to surpass that," said Roelvink.
Looking ahead, the singer still holds professional ambitions, including a goal to perform at a major venue for his 70th birthday.
"Maybe a bit too high pitched," said Roelvink.
Despite acknowledging the difficulty, he remains open to achieving his ultimate stage goals.
"Where there's a will, there's a way," said Roelvink.
