PARTICIPANTS
music influencers
AMP
Amp Buchanan is an independent A&R executive and music industry tastemaker based in Dallas–Fort Worth, known for discovering and developing emerging R&B and hip-hop artists into label-ready talent. As founder of The Ntrl Co., he connects Dallas creatives, curates sessions, and helps artists move from raw ideas to fully executed records and rollout strategies. Amp has quietly helped position multiple independent artists for major label conversations and industry opportunities through his ear, strategy, and network in the Dallas scene.
performers
Alexis Ray Parker
Alexis Ray Parker is an R&B artist whose music blends soulful vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and contemporary influences. Originally from Arkansas, she has drawn inspiration from creative communities across Chicago, Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas.
After stepping away from music in 2022 to focus on personal growth, Alexis is returning with a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh sound. Her new music explores themes of love, resilience, healing, and self-discovery while staying true to the authenticity that defines her artistry.
Now stepping back into the R&B scene, Alexis Ray Parker is preparing to release new music that marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With honest lyrics, smooth melodies, and a passion for connecting with listeners, she is ready to reintroduce herself and continue building her place in today’s R&B landscape.
D.X.N
Don, professionally known as D.X.N, is a 22-year-old singer, songwriter and emerging recording artist based in Dallas-Fort Worth. Known for his dynamic vocal ability, captivating stage presence and versatility across multiple musical genres, D.X.N delivers performances that leave a lasting impression. In addition to his vocal talents, he has a passion for creating authentic, emotionally resonant music. As a rising artist, he is committed to refining his craft and building meaningful connections within the music industry.
Leslie Austin
Leslie Austin is a singer, songwriter, and commanding live performer whose voice carries the weight of lived experience—warm, soulful, and unmistakably her own. Born of soul, raised in gospel, and shaped at the crossroads of blues, pop, rock, and Americana, her tone is smoky-sweet, velvet-deep, and gritty in moments of raw emotion.
After establishing herself in the Dallas/Ft. Worth music scene and later in Los Angeles, Leslie expanded internationally, touring Southern Italy three times and performing at festivals—often as the only American artist on the lineup. In 2025, she was named a Dallas Sounds Spotlight Artist by the Dallas Music Office and became an official nominee for Best Singer-Songwriter Act at the 2026 Dallas Entertainment Awards.
Austin has headlined international festivals and appeared at notable events including Live Nation’s Breaking Sound showcase at The Peppermint Club in Los Angeles and a Dolby performance in Laurel Canyon. After seeing that performance, actor Sean Penn remarked, “I’d never seen or heard the singer, but felt like I was seeing & hearing a legend.
Emcee
Jazzi Black
Jazzi Black is a Dallas-based broadcaster and naturalist, best known as the host of The Kickback w/ Jazzi Black on 97.9 The Beat. Recognized for her sharp wit, thoughtful storytelling, and magnetic presence, she has interviewed some of entertainment's biggest names, including Erykah Badu, Mark Cuban,
Marlon Wayans, Keke Palmer, Questlove, and more.
A proud two-time HBCU graduate of Prairie View A&M University and Texas Southern University, Jazzi has built a career at the intersection of media, culture, and community. She launched her journey as Sr. Digital Content Producer for
Reach Media, collaborating with legendary voices like Tom Joyner, Erica Campbell, Russ Parr, and D.L. Hughley before becoming one of the nation's youngest morning radio hosts. Her team later landed a television deal with The CW for The Beat on 33, and in 2018 she was honored as DFW's "Rising Star" by the Alliance for Women in Media.
Beyond broadcasting, Jazzi is the founder of The Flytrap Collective, a nature brand reconnecting Black communities to the outdoors through education, creativity, and environmental action. Whether behind a microphone, on stage, or in nature, she is committed to amplifying stories, building community, and creating spaces where culture, creativity, and conservation thrive.