On this episode of The Reluctantly Podcast, Terry welcomes Alberta song-writing duo Dahlia Wakefield and Kevin Frey for a Local Music Spotlight. They talk about their unlikely connection over pico de gallo, how their song-writing partnership began in 2023, and the chemistry that turns Kevin’s rock riffs and Dahlia’s lyrics into original music. Dahlia shares her journey through country, rock, metal, tribute bands, music teaching, and a return to writing and recording her own songs. They also discuss their award-nominated music, including “Well Dressed Lies” and “Light of the Phoenix,” which has received international recognition and radio play around the world. Along the way, they get into the realities of making a living in music, surviving the COVID shutdown, performing everything from Heart and Iron Maiden to classics for seniors, and what’s next—including a new single, a full album, live shows, and plenty more music to come very soon.
Key Topics
The journey of Dahlia Wakefield and Kevin Frey in the music industry
Challenges faced by musicians during COVID-19 and how they adapted
The importance of live performances and upcoming gigs
Their experience with awards and recognition in the music scene
The process of song-writing and collaboration between Dahlia and Kevin
Plans for new music releases and international recognition
The role of music education and mentorship in their careers
Insights into the Edmonton music scene and local venues
The evolution of music distribution and streaming platforms
The significance of supporting local artists and live music venues
Chapters
0:00 – Opening and studio setup
1:21 – Introducing Dalia Wakefield and Kevin Fry
1:49 – International Singer-Songwriter Association nominations
3:09 – Atlanta, Nashville, and travel plans
6:37 – How the song-writing partnership began
7:57 – Music training, Grant MacEwan, and learning guitar
11:02 – Teaching music and building a foundation
12:47 – Dalia’s background and family story
14:07 – Live shows, band projects, and performance life
17:02 – Rock, metal, and finding her lane
19:40 – Covers vs original songs
23:01 – Recording, harmonies, and finishing the album
24:36 – Stepping away from music and coming back
26:23 – COVID, caregiving, and the impact on musicians
31:24 – Online lessons and adapting to teaching
34:13 – Working with Sandro Dominelli
36:30 – The song-writing process and creative synergy
38:55 – Radio play, PR, and international reach
41:51 – Writing through struggle and emotion
46:23 – Performing for seniors and different audiences
49:40 – Doo-wop, Beatles, and older classics
51:05 – Heart, Led Zeppelin, and vocal range
53:50 – Upcoming shows and release dates
55:43 – New single, album release, and party plans
www.dahliawakefield.com
www.reluctantlypodcast.com
@dahliawakefield
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#Music #Songwriting #LivePerformance #MusicIndustryAwards #MusicCollaboration #EdmontonMusicScene #MusicEducation #NewMusicReleases #yegmusic

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