Cortney Dixon: Embracing authenticity in a punk-infused musical journey

Cortney Dixon: Embracing authenticity in a punk-infused musical journey
Cortney Dixon has always been intertwined with music, her passion igniting from a young age. Growing up, she created melodies and played her makeshift violin, unaware of the profound career that awaited her. It was during her final school years that the realization struck: music was her true calling. With unwavering support from her parents, who had sacrificed their own dreams, Dixon plunged into the world of music, a decision that has defined her path ever since.

The sound of rebellion

Recently, Dixon unveiled her latest single, “You Look Good Naked,” the first glimpse into her upcoming EP. This track, infused with punk energy, sets a vibrant tone for the project. “This EP has a more cohesive and punky sound than anything I’ve done before,” she shares, emphasizing the meticulous effort she invested in perfecting the guitar tones. Drawing inspiration from iconic bands like Blondie and The Clash, Dixon crafts a sound that resonates with both nostalgia and modernity, creating a fearless, guitar-driven experience.

Stripping it down

At its essence, “You Look Good Naked” is a celebration of confidence and self-love. The inspiration for this anthem emerged not from conventional sources but from an unexpected night out. A spontaneous visit to a strip club with a friend introduced her to Daisy, a dancer who exuded empowerment and body positivity. “I loved the idea of that. Imagine feeling that free, that liberated in your own skin,” Dixon reflects. This encounter sparked the creation of the song’s catchy hook, encapsulating the essence of embracing one’s body.

Turning up the volume

For Dixon, live performances are not merely a job; they are the heart of her artistry. “Performing live has always been my favorite thing,” she states, highlighting the electric connection between her and the audience. Each song she writes is crafted with the stage in mind, designed to resonate with fans in a live setting. Beyond the stage, Dixon maintains her connection with fans through social media and engaging music videos, which she describes as vital to her artistic expression.

Staying in her lane

Navigating the music industry can often lead to pressures to conform, but Dixon remains steadfast in her commitment to authenticity. “If something doesn’t feel natural to me, I can’t do it,” she asserts. Despite attempts from industry figures to mold her into a marketable image, Dixon learned that true artistry comes from staying true to oneself. Her influences, including PJ Harvey and St. Vincent, embody this spirit of individuality, inspiring her to evolve while remaining grounded in her unique sound.

SXSW and what’s next

Dixon’s debut at SXSW was a whirlwind of performances and new connections. “Meeting so many new people from all over the world who’ve come to see us? That’s been really special,” she recalls. Looking ahead, she has a new single set to release on March 28th, followed by a UK tour and a summer filled with festival appearances. This year promises to be a pivotal one for Dixon, with an EP on the horizon that she describes as her most unapologetic work yet.