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 TopicsThe journey of Dahlia Wakefield and Kevin Frey in the music industryChallenges faced by musicians during COVID-19 and how they adaptedThe importance of live performances and upcoming gigsTheir experience with awards and recognition in the music sceneThe process of song-writing and collaboration between Dahlia and KevinPlans for new music releases and international recognitionThe role of music education and mentorship in their careersInsights into the Edmonton music scene and local venuesThe evolution of music distribution and streaming platformsThe significance of supporting local artists and live music venuesChapters0:00 – Opening and studio setup1:21 – Introducing Dalia Wakefield and Kevin Fry1:49 – International Singer-Songwriter Association nominations3:09 – Atlanta, Nashville, and travel plans6:37 – How the song-writing partnership began7:57 – Music training, Grant MacEwan, and learning guitar11:02 – Teaching music and building a foundation12:47 – Dalia’s background and family story14:07 – Live shows, band projects, and performance life17:02 – Rock, metal, and finding her lane19:40 – Covers vs original songs23:01 – Recording, harmonies, and finishing the album24:36 – Stepping away from music and coming back26:23 – COVID, caregiving, and the impact on musicians31:24 – Online lessons and adapting to teaching34:13 – Working with Sandro Dominelli36:30 – The song-writing process and creative synergy38:55 – Radio play, PR, and international reach41:51 – Writing through struggle and emotion46:23 – Performing for seniors and different audiences49:40 – Doo-wop, Beatles, and older classics51:05 – Heart, Led Zeppelin, and vocal range53:50 – Upcoming shows and release dates55:43 – New single, album release, and party planswww.dahliawakefield.comwww.reluctantlypodcast.com @dahliawakefield @ZoneOnePodcast @TheWealthRoundUp @TheAlbertaGolfPodcast @thenetworkofgiving @DistilleryDiscovery #Music #Songwriting #LivePerformance #MusicIndustryAwards #MusicCollaboration #EdmontonMusicScene #MusicEducation #NewMusicReleases #yegmusic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices