Brian Dallas, Artist - Hitworks Entertainment Biography Jacksonville, FL has become a place commonly known as "The Place Where Florida Begins." To further support this notion, a substantial amount of talent has originated from the Jacksonville area including Lynyrd Skynrd, Pat Boone, and 95 South. J-ville now introduces yet another talented artist, and this artist is none other than Brian Dallas. Brian was born on July 25, 1978 in Jacksonville, FL. This Jacksonville native was raised in Northwest Jacksonville; more specifically, the historical Durkeyville area of Duval County. Brian's inner-city neighborhood, which he affectionately calls home, equipped him with both book and street knowledge that helped him find himself...and his musical talent. His strong gospel roots derive from his upbringing in the church, courtesy of his grandmother. It was in church that he was exposed to the dynamics of singing, as his grandmother and cousins all sang well in the church choir. Around the age of 13, Brian began to discover his musical talent. He discovered that he was able to rap and chant, and would impress friends with his talent. At 14, a close friend's uncle with connections in the entertainment industry helped Brian start a group called "Back to Back." He and his group performed their song "Back to Back," which is written by Brian, at "Amateur Night" at the Florida Theater in Jacksonville, FL. They were highly praised for their song lyrics, sound, and performance...marking the beginning of Brian's professional music career. Brian graduated Class of '96 from Sandalwood High School in Jacksonville, FL. After graduating, Brian desired to learn more about the 'behind the scenes' arena of producing music, and had arranged to go to school for Audio Engineering. Due to circumstances beyond his control, he was unable to carry out his plans, so he decided that he would attempt a different approach at his career. Brian attended school and became licensed in Horticulture. He currently owns a Landscaping/Lawn Care business, which maintains his household and allows him the flexibility to pursue his musical career. He has continued to write and perform his music, as well as network with other professionals in the music industry. Brian has worked with several artists and producers, including the hot 90's group, The Boys. Brian was afforded an opportunity to record with The Boys in Africa, which was an unforgettable experience for him. Brian's deep gospel roots, in combination with other genres including Hip Hop, Jazz, P-Funk, Reggae, and Rhythm & Blues, all influence him musically. Some of his favorite artists include Doug E. Fresh, Eric B., Rakim, Slick Rick, Outkast, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, and Frankie Beverly & the Maze. He is strongly influenced by several reggae artists including Coco T, who is his favorite. Although Brian is talented in both rapping and chanting, he prefers chanting because he feels that it presents a greater challenge. He describes chanting as a combination of rapping and singing, and has expressed that all rappers can't chant; however, all chanters must be able to rap, as it is a vital component of the chanting craft. He is intrigued by the challenge of chanting, but holds great respect for rapping, especially since it serves as the foundation of his musical ability. Brian became interested in an opportunity with Hitworks by way of Czar Black, another Hitworks artist who is also Brian's cousin. Upon being introduced to Hitworks, Brian expressed that he was impressed by the persistence, quality, and professionalism of the business and its production. Brian credits Czar Black with encouraging him to make chanting (versus rapping) his musical focus. He is ecstatic about his opportunity with Hitworks, as well as the release of his first album titled "Mystic Melody." "Mystic Melody" provides a unique blend of hip-hop and reggae cultures. This album showcases the Rastafarian, Jacksonville-native as both an artist and person. The track, "Duval Way" is soon-to-become a Jacksonville anthem as it pays homage to Jacksonville (Duval County) by representing the city as a landmark. The spicy track, "Wind Ya Waistline" is a tight joint with a club-ish vibe that is guaranteed to make you wanna shake something. Also included on the debut album are socially and politically-conscious songs like "Black Community" and "Take Heed," which leave you with something to think about regarding current issues in society. Additionally, the ladies are shown some real love and respect with tracks like, "Beautiful Black Woman," and "Sticky Situation," which is a song that touches on different forms of domestic abuse all too common to some women today. The lyrical variety and exclusive sound of this debut will provide something for people from various walks of life to enjoy. Although music makes up a considerable amount of Brian's being, there is a lot more substance to the man. Brian is a Rastafarian, and a devout Vegan. Brian is not Jamaican, but he is of distant Caribbean decent from two to three generations before him. As he began to study and learn about the origins of reggae music, he became more socially and culturally conscious. Brian's motivation derives from his musical roots, emotions, and studies from the teachings of great leaders including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X. However, Brian is most deeply motivated by his 4-year-old son, Noah; for whom he naturally wants to make a very comfortable life. Unsurprisingly, he prefers being in natural settings, and enjoys relaxing, meditating, reading, and studying when he is not working. He also enjoys playing sports and spending time with his son. Personally, Brian tends to be a loner. He is very laid back, has very few friends, and is somewhat shy around people of which he is unfamiliar. Brian also happens to be a history buff, and enjoys learning new things about nature. Additionally, he enjoys cooking; especially Vegan dishes, which are his favorite. Interestingly, one of Brian's greatest aspirations is to participate in a remake of "The Ten Commandments" with an all-Black cast. Brian's persona certainly manifests itself in his music. He expresses that the message in his music is that of peace, love, unity, and upliftment amongst all people. As a matter of fact, he has dedicated his life to spreading this message to the world via his music. Utilizing Hitworks as a catalyst will enable Brian to begin the expedition on his mission to spread his message...the Duval Way! Biography courtesy of Dominica McLeod, JustWrite Marketing