Derek Dixie facts for kids

Derek James Dixie is an American musician and record producer. He is also a musical director. He is well-known for his work with famous artists like Beyoncé, Chloe x Halle, and The Carters. Derek Dixie has been nominated for five Grammy Awards and one Emmy Award.

Early Life and Learning

Dixie grew up in Youngstown, Ohio. He went to Youngstown State University. Later, he graduated from The Recording Workshop in Chillicothe, Ohio. After finishing his studies, he taught audio engineering at The Recording Workshop.

Derek Dixie's Career

MTV's Making His Band

In 2009, Derek Dixie was one of 42 finalists on an MTV show. The show was called "Making His Band." It was about Sean "Diddy" Combs looking for a band. He wanted a band to play on his album, "Last Dance in Paris."

Super Bowl Performances

Derek Dixie was the music director for Beyoncé's solo performance. This was at the Superbowl half time show in 2013. He also worked with her again in 2016. That year, she performed with Coldplay and Bruno Mars.

In 2019, Dixie helped Chloe x Halle perform for Super Bowl LIII. He arranged the music for them. Thirty musicians from Youngstown State University played. A horn and string group from Los Angeles also joined.

“I am proud that I was able to put such an important task in the hands of my hometown,” he said. “When you hear the arrangement, I hope you will feel that every note, chord and rhythm in the orchestration means something.”

Working with Beyoncé

Derek Dixie worked with Beyoncé as her Music Director for almost ten years. He received an Emmy nomination for his work. This was for "HOMECOMING: A Film by Beyoncé." An Emmy is a big award for TV shows and films.

Dixie also helped Beyoncé create the song Black Parade. This song is like an anthem. It talks about her heritage and African roots. It also reflects on the Black Experience in America. The song was released on Juneteenth.

Awards and Nominations

Derek Dixie has received many important nominations. He has five Grammy nominations. He also has one Emmy nomination.

Grammy Awards

The Grammy Awards are very important awards in music.