Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Fred Dixie. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Fred, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

In 2019, just before the pandemic hit, I found myself at a pivotal moment in my life where everything seemed to click and push me toward my passion for music. It was that year that I made the decision to fully dive into the world of artistry, driven by the inspiration and connection I had with my best friend, Breon. Together, we formed the music group BL+K (Breon Lanier + Kenn.Wav), a creative outlet where we could express our unique sounds, ideas, and energy.

Starting BL+K (Breon Lanier + Kenn.Wav) was an exciting and bold move, especially in such a dynamic year. We both knew we had something special, and it gave me a sense of purpose as we worked together to shape the group’s identity. It was about more than just the music—it was about building something that felt real, something that represented who we were and what we wanted to share with the world.

At the same time, I realized that exposure and experience were crucial, so I decided to take my talent to the local Indianapolis scene. Gigging with local artists gave me the chance to network, grow, and refine my craft. It wasn’t just about performing; it was about learning from others, testing my abilities, and immersing myself in the art and culture of the Indy area. Those live performances were an opportunity to feel the energy of the crowd, and they pushed me to develop my stage presence, get feedback, and figure out how to connect with people on a more personal level.

Although the pandemic soon changed everything, my decision to start making music and gain experience in 2019 set the foundation for my artistic journey. I didn’t just wait for opportunities to come to me—I made my own path, and that was key to shaping who I am as an artist.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

For folks who may not have read about me before, my name is Fred, and I’m a Fort Wayne, Indiana native currently living in Indianapolis. I’ve been blessed to find my passion and purpose in music, which has shaped who I am today.

I got into music at a young age, starting out by playing at church. What began as a hobby quickly grew into a professional music career. I have to credit Bashari Assad and Be On It for helping me take that leap into the professional world of music. Working alongside these artists and bands has opened so many doors and led to incredible opportunities, all while helping me learn and grow in ways I could never have imagined. Through these experiences, I’ve had the chance to play numerous shows at various venues across the Midwest, and it’s been an amazing ride.

At the heart of my work, I started out playing gospel music in church. Gospel music has always been so soulful to me, and its influence can still be felt in much of the music I play today. Over time, I’ve expanded my repertoire, and now I perform a range of genres including gospel, jazz, fusion, pop, and R&B. I truly enjoy experimenting with different sounds and genres, but the soul of gospel will always be at the core of my music.

What sets me apart is my deep love for sound. I’ve developed a passion for crafting unique musical textures, often adding filters over pianos and electric pianos to give the sounds we hear a fresh take. I aim to create music that feels rich and layered, allowing listeners to connect with something beyond just the melody.

When it comes to what I’m most proud of, it’s definitely the journey. I’ve been part of so many incredible experiences, from festivals to intimate gigs, and I’ve learned so much along the way. I’m proud that my untraditional route led me to where I am today. Without formal training, I’ve relied on life experiences and live performances to prepare me. It’s been a long, winding road, but it’s all been worth it, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

In my view, society can best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem by valuing and prioritizing art as an essential part of our culture and well-being. There are a few key ways to do this:

1. **Provide Access to Resources and Opportunities**: Access to affordable spaces, equipment, and funding is crucial for artists to thrive. Offering grants, artist residencies, and community-driven initiatives helps nurture creativity. This not only supports the artist financially but also gives them the room to experiment, grow, and take risks.

2. **Foster Collaboration and Community**: Creating environments where artists and creatives can collaborate with each other helps ideas flourish. Whether through networking events, mentorships, or creative hubs, bringing people together encourages a shared sense of purpose and can lead to exciting collaborations across various disciplines.

3. Invest in Arts Education: Even for those who pursue unconventional paths, access to arts education is essential. It helps build foundational skills and fosters creativity from an early age. While formal training may not be necessary for everyone, having educational programs and workshops can open doors to a wider pool of talent and ideas.

4. Champion and Celebrate Creativity: Society should celebrate creativity in all its forms. Whether through media coverage, public events, or simply acknowledging the importance of creative work, recognition can help raise the profile of artists and their contributions. Supporting local art festivals, performances, and exhibitions can strengthen the community’s relationship with the arts.

5. Create Inclusive Spaces for Art to Flourish: Encouraging diversity and inclusivity in the creative ecosystem ensures that multiple perspectives are heard and represented. When society makes space for artists from all backgrounds and disciplines, it enriches the cultural fabric, offering fresh voices and viewpoints that challenge and inspire others.

6. Support the Business Side of Art: Many artists struggle with the business side of things—marketing, contracts, and managing their careers. Offering more resources or training around the entrepreneurial side of being an artist would help creatives navigate the complexities of making a sustainable living from their craft.

By fostering a supportive, inclusive, and resource-rich environment, society can create a thriving ecosystem where artists have the freedom to push boundaries and share their work with the world.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

From my perspective, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the ability to transform abstract ideas into something tangible that resonates with others. There’s a unique power in connecting with people through art—whether it evokes emotion, sparks thought, or simply offers a moment of reflection. The process is fulfilling, as it involves exploration, problem-solving, and often an unexpected discovery of new ideas or perspectives. The joy comes from both the creation and the shared experience it fosters with others.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennn.wav?igsh=dnp4YnZsMjh6bXp5&utm_source=qr
• Other: https://music.apple.com/za/artist/bl-k/1692560572

Image Credits

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