ListN Up is a weekly series of artist-curated playlists that offer an intimate sonic portrait of contemporary artists by showcasing the diverse and stylistically varied music that influences their creative practice.
Kennedy Taylor Dixon is a violist, composer, and collaborator based out of Kalamazoo, MI. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Viola performance and Composition and a Master of Arts in Composition from Western Michigan University. She is currently in the application process to begin her PhD in Fall 2022.
Hi everyone! My name is Kennedy Taylor Dixon, and I’m a composer/performer from Kalamazoo, Michigan. For this playlist, I wanted to put together a list of some of my favorite songs that make me feel happy, sad, and everything else in between. These artists are phenomenal and inspiring, and I hope to inspire listeners in the same way through my music.
“Happy Birthday” by Stevie Wonder
I had to start this playlist with a classic. Stevie Wonder continues to be an icon in the music industry. March is also my birthday month, so I had to start with a celebration!
“Apple Pie” by Lizzy McAlpine
This was the first song I heard of Lizzy McAlpine’s, and I was immediately calmed by her soothing voice. She is such a talented musician, and I wanted to share her work.
“Understand” by Hippo Campus
This song is the final song off of Hippo Campus’ newest album. This band’s ability to engage its listeners through their work is a prime reason I enjoy them.
“Process” by Samora Pinderhughes
I saw Samora perform in Brooklyn, NY in October 2021, and it was such a powerful performance. I haven’t had a live performance hit me so deeply like Samora’s. Definitely check out his work!
“All I Ever Wanted” by Yebba
Yebba’s voice glides through the air like butter. Her music takes me to a different world, and I wanted to share a recent favorite.
“Ivy” by Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean’s album, blonde, was released the summer after I finished high school. I spent a lot of time that summer reminiscing on the past and preparing for how much change was to come. This album, along with this song, holds a special place in my heart.
“Prelid” from Suite pou Dantan by Nathalie Joachim, performed by Nathalie Joachim and Spektral Quartet
Nathalie Joachim is such an inspiring artist, and it was very difficult to choose just one of her works. Her project with Spektral Quartet is so beautiful. This is one of my favorites because of the duet between flute and viola.
“When I See” (ft. Conor Oberst) by Crane Like the Bird
A friend of mine introduced me to the album that this song is on, and this instantly became my favorite. The guitar opening was immediately calming, and I found myself wanting to sit in the sound forever.
the walls kept me warm by Kennedy Taylor Dixon
This was the first string quartet that I wrote back in 2019, and the title still holds true. I find comfort in being surrounded by sounds, colors, and memories. I tried to incorporate this feeling into this piece. Hope you enjoy!
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