Music has always been a form of both comfort and expression for D!XON, real name Sheldon Dixon, and nowhere is this more evident than through his music he now shares with the world. Having had what can only be described as a difficult adolescence that left him feeling isolated and passionless, after leaving home and having connected with other members of the 2SLGBTQ community, he began to find his place in the world, and his confidence and wellbeing – mental and emotional – flourished as a result.

That confidence and self-assurance is one of the many things that makes DIXON’s music so impactful, and his latest single “Arms Around Me” is an empowering track, encouraging all those who hear it to express their appreciation and love for those around them. PopWrapped caught up with D!XON to chat artistic influences and what he most wants people to take from his latest single.

Your influences range from Michael and Janet Jackson, Toni Braxton and Mariah Carey. How does their music impact your creative decisions?

I just let their spirit take me dahling! Haha, I love them all for very specific reasons, I think things that influence me from each of them make up who I am as an artist. For example, I love the way that Michael uses the tonality in his voice, and I resonate with it because I feel like I naturally have similar textures and tones as he does, however, I don’t move like him! I think my movement is more similar to Janet’s. Very silky, and smooth with tasteful intricacy. I really love Mariah for her vocal production, and song-writing skills, and Toni for the way she makes me feel while listening to her voice, and also how mysterious and sultry she is. I try to use them as an example, but putting my own artistic spin on it which makes me, me.

“Arms Around Me” is an unapologetic confession and expression of love, what do you want people to take away from your song?

I want this song to make people feel good, feel sexy, inspired to love and let loose.

The song contains lots of vocals elements and passionate lyrics. When writing “Arms Around Me”, what was the process like? 

I wrote “Arms Around Me” while I was falling in love with this particular boy, I was hopelessly mesmerized by him and haven’t felt that way about someone in a very long time. The way that he looked into my eyes had me intoxicated with desire and filled me with so much warmth. I found it really important to capture the essence and feeling of suspense with the pulsing synth in the song which gives you that tug of war feeling when you meet someone new and you’re anxiously waiting for that text.

I also added the saxophone because the sound of it is very sensual, and if there is any instrument that’s a “gay” instrument, it would definitely be the saxophone lol it was a must to have it! When it comes to the lyrics, melody and vocals I wrote it and performed it in a way that emulates delicacy, mystery, sensuality and romance. I really focused on layers of textures, harmonies, to artistically frame the dynamic melodic choices in my vocal performance.

For the video for “Arms Around Me” you worked alongside celebrity director Dan Lemoyne, Hollywood Jade (Drag Race Canada resident choreographer) and Marc Andrew Smith (Drag Race resident stylist). What was the experience of shooting the video like?

Honestly, they are all the dream team! It was such a wonderful experience working with them all! Things happened so organically and came from an authentic place. Dan is so gentle, down to earth and has great creative energy. Hollywood and I have been working together for a very long time, we understand each other and complement each other very well! He is so knowledgeable, creative and efficient in the way that he works! He gets the job DONE! This was my first time working with Marc Andrew Smith, he absolutely blew me away with his creative energy, ideas, and taste level. I was able to create with them all! We were all so excited and humbled to be able to work, especially during this time! There was so much uncertainty, we had to move quickly with parts of the City opening and closing down every other week. I am happy with how everything turned out!

Growing up you battled with your identity and freedom of self-expression. What advice would you give to people going through similar things right now?

I would stay focus on what truly makes you happy and what makes you feel good! Every amazing leader had people who doubted them and made them feel less than. It’s up to us to drown them out and focus on the big picture. Stay connected with people who wish you well, and have similar interests with you that will help you in a positive way.

As well as inspiring people, releasing music and being the creator of the City of Toronto’s Drag Masterclass – it’s safe to say you are busy! – what does 2021 look like for you, do you have any plans for your music?

Yes, I am currently writing and recording music for my first album. I am staying very focused on the process, and I am really excited. As we all know with the pandemic, makes it hard to make plans. All I can do is control my controllable, take it a day at a time and be able to pivot with creative ideas and opportunities when it presents itself.

Check out the video for “Arms Around Me” below and for more information on D!XON, visit his website, give his page a like on Facebook or follow him on Twitter and Instagram.