Who is Dixon Munro? A Journey of Self Discovery
A journey of self-discovery and transformation as I revisit an emotional project produced during a trip to NYC. This blog post reflects on overcoming personal struggles, embracing authenticity, and the empowering connections formed along the way.
PERSONALNEWS
Dixon Munro
6/24/20244 min read
Closing a Chapter
Finishing the editing of this video feels like closing a significant chapter in my life. I’ve held onto this footage out of fear—fear of moving on, fear of the unknown. But I’m ready now. Ready to face my past and create a new future. This video is more than just an introduction to who I am as Dixon Munro; it’s a symbol of overcoming personal struggles and embracing the beauty of change. Who is Dixon Munro? is only the beginning of the end. I welcome change with open arms.
Who is Dixon Munro?
The Journey of Self-Discovery
It’s taken me three years to revisit the footage taken in New York City, 2021, and it’s been a journey of mental clarity and sobriety to finally see this project through. The video you’re about to watch isn’t just a showcase of my work as an artist, but it’s also a reflection of my personal growth and transformation. I was in a different place, both mentally and physically. Revisiting this footage now, I see myself for who I am and can relate deeply to the person I was. My work emphasizes empowerment and authenticity, and these themes resonate with my journey over these past few years. My creative projects and music capture the essence of what it means to embrace one's true self, something I’ve had to learn and relearn over time.
The One-Day Adventure
The video was produced during a whirlwind one-day trip to New York City from Orlando. I had reached out to a stranger on Instagram, Ramzy Hicks, who agreed to join me on this adventure. It was a leap of faith, not just in him but in the idea that this trip could become something meaningful. We learned a lot about each other on this journey, and it’s a testament to the connections that can form in the most unexpected ways. To be honest, I had no real plan with this project, only that I wanted to escape to New York because it was calling my name. I was looking for change. I was looking for something that would defy the familiar. To me, Orlando had shrunk and I was hitting a wall in terms of collaborating with talent in the city.
The Turbulent Flight
We landed in Newark, New Jersey, and took an Uber to NYC to shoot in a studio. The flight was turbulent, and I genuinely thought I was going to die during the landing. I screamed, not caring about the judgmental looks from other passengers. It was a moment of raw fear, but also one that grounded me and made the rest of the trip feel even more surreal. It was also the moment I made up my mind that I did not like New Jersey and would not seek any opportunity to return. Although Newark is a fairly black city where I felt a sense of familiarity, it was heartbreaking to see the homeless and drug addicts roaming freely around. It goes to show a consistent disparity in the United States, no matter where I land.
The Studio Experience with Ramzy
Ramzy and I were dropped off in Brooklyn at an old warehouse where the studio was located. It was a simple setup with basic lights, a vanity, and large windows overlooking the bustling Brooklyn streets. From the windows, we could see trains passing by, a constant reminder of the city's relentless energy. Inside the studio, we made use of what we had available, focusing on capturing raw moments and having a real conversation. It was less about the perfect shot and more about the authenticity of the experience. This intimate setting allowed us to connect deeply and create something truly meaningful.
The Cold Walk Through NYC
After the shoot, we walked from Brooklyn to Midtown Manhattan at night, in the midst of winter, for over two hours. It was freezing, and our breath hung in the air as we trekked through the city. Despite the cold, it was an unforgettable journey, filled with conversations that warmed us more than any jacket could. We even stumbled on a movie set! Man, did we get the New York experience!
The Freehand New York Experience
We finally arrived at our Airbnb, exhausted but exhilarated. We stayed at the Freehand New York, a place that now holds a special place in my heart. The next morning, we had breakfast before heading back to New Jersey to catch our flight back to Orlando. That trip was brief but impactful, leaving me with a newfound belief in people, experiences, and the magic of New York City—a place I now hope to call home someday.
Thank you for being here. I am glad you made it.
Who is Dixon Munro?