Thirsty Thursday Featuring Caryn Dixon

Thank you for chatting with us! For newer fans, how did your passion for music and career come about? I have two early memories that really stand out. The first was sitting in the car with my dad, singing along to Madonna. He turned to me and said, “You have a really good voice.” Not long after that, I was signed up for voice lessons. The second was after my very first solo in a children’s choir. As I stepped off stage, my teacher gave me a tip about how stage presence while singing ballads. Then my mom leaned in and said, “She’s giving you advice because you're meant to keep doing this.” That moment stuck with me.

You recently released your new single, "Bird In A Cage;" that you co-wrote with, Nick Gates and Gabe Neal. Tell us about the writing process and where the idea came from. We wrote 'Bird in a Cage' about realizing you’ve outgrown the version of yourself that stayed quiet just to keep the peace. It’s about the slow build: the tiptoeing, the unspoken things, the feeling of being small in your own life. I wanted to capture what it feels like to walk on eggshells and then finally decide to break free. It was produced by Gabe Neal and Callie Dixon from the duo JST FRNDS. And I am thrilled with how it turned out...they are amazing producers who aren't afraid to push the boundaries, while still maintaining relevance.

Where did you grow up and how has that influenced your style of music? I was born in North Carolina and raised between central and western Pennsylvania, which gave me a unique blend of roots from the start. Over the years, I’ve also lived in Chicago and Nashville, and each place has left its mark on me. My sound pulls from a mix of genres—Blues, Country, Folk, Roots, and Pop. I was also classically trained on the piano, and I think that background really shows up in the way I approach melody.

At the end of the day, what do you hope is the message of your music? What do you hope people take away from your songs? The main mission I have in sharing my music is to inspire other people to go after their dreams, even if they are getting a chance at it later in life. It’s never too late to build something. You might have to adjust or pivot, but no one should ever tell you that it’s too late or impossible. It is ok to take breaks in life and return. Just because you take a pause to for example, raise children, doesn't mean your dream is completely lost.

What’s your advice for young artists trying to establish a name for themselves? Especially young females that may see you as a role model. Educate yourself and treat your music like a business. Always have an attorney review anything you're asked to sign. Stay true to who you are, but also be open to feedback...there’s a delicate balance between being receptive to criticism and standing your ground. I’m always happy to mentor emerging artists, and I encourage anyone entering this industry to move with caution. Be wary of people eager to “sign” you before you've put in the work. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to interview multiple people before committing to anything.

What is an example of a menu you would prepare if I came over? I LOVE seafood. I’d probably make you a Shrimp Scampi Pasta Dish with homemade bread and some steamed muscles in a white wine, butter, garlic broth.

What is your favorite wine? Sauvignon Blanc and Malbec

How do you drink your coffee? I am a coffee snob. I love a good medium roast with unsweetened vanilla Nutpods. It seriously the best non dairy creamer out there.

What is your favorite breakfast? Eggs Benedict. Hands down. I order it everytime I am out to breakfast and I love to cook it for my guests.

Finally, if you could be sponsored by one food/drink brand who would it be and why? Kerry Gold Butter. I use it in EVERYTHING!!!

Website: www.caryndixonmusic.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caryndixonmusic/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caryndixonmusic

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWLh7ogWnYqg4ZDHbR5xyjg

Raised in a small town in central Pennsylvania, Caryn Dixon began writing songs and singing in church choirs at age seven. Today, she’s a genre-defying singer-songwriter known for her honest lyrics, powerhouse performances, and fierce advocacy for women, particularly those impacted by domestic violence and emotional manipulation.

In late 2023, she released her debut single, “Print Your Name and Sign,” produced by The Pear (April Rose Gabrielli and Jacob Kulick). The song resonated deeply with listeners, especially those navigating or healing from traumatic relationships, leading to podcast guest spots and a growing community around her message. Her follow-up release, “Here I Am,” produced by Gabe Neal and Justin Frech, landed on major Spotify editorial playlists, reaching over 12 million listeners.

Outside the studio, Caryn brings that same creative spirit into the kitchen as the host of her YouTube cooking show, “Chef-ish,” where she shares deliciously imperfect recipes with heart and humor. From caramelized French toast and homemade cherry pie to campfire Italian sausages, her dishes, just like her music, are comforting, a little unconventional, and always full of flavor.

Whether she’s on stage, in the studio, or behind the stove, Caryn’s mission remains the same: to empower others to take back their stories and live life on their own terms…even if it means doing things a little “-ish.”