Welcome to Psychedelics Design – where design meets psychedelics!
This week on the podcast, I sit down with Dylan Meek—Grammy-nominated pianist, vocalist, and producer whose music embodies both the electricity of Harlem jazz clubs and the spaciousness of his Texas Hill Country roots.
From early mentorship under piano master Jimmy Neeley to collaborations with some of today’s most iconic musicians, Dylan has honed a sound that is at once virtuosic and deeply human. His forthcoming album Love Languages, out on Liquid Culture Records on September 26th, explores the many ways we give and receive love—romantic, familial, and universal—through music that heals as much as it inspires.
What makes this conversation especially compelling is Dylan’s perspective on creativity and altered states. Though he’s never taken a psychedelic, his practice has led him into visions, out-of-body experiences, and profound flow states—reminding us that highly creative people can access multiple dimensions of the human experience through music, meditation, and presence alone.
We talk about the role of environment in shaping creativity, the courage it takes to write sincere love songs, and why Dylan sees music not only as art but as medicine, a spiritual practice that predates humanity itself. Whether you’re a musician, a creative, or someone exploring new ways of connection, this episode is a masterclass in creativity without shortcuts.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
Nature as a musical teacher — Growing up in Texas sharpened Dylan’s ear for multidimensional sound, inspiring his immersive approach to mixing and performance.
Mentorship as transformation — His time with Harlem piano master Jimmy Neeley gave him discipline, reverence for craft, and a lifelong sense of music as a way of life.
Music as medicine — Dylan views music as a healing, spiritual, and even psychedelic practice—one that exists beyond human culture and into nature itself.
Creativity without psychedelics — Through music, meditation, and flow states, Dylan has experienced visions and altered states of consciousness, showing how art itself can be a portal.
Love Languages as manifesto — His upcoming album invites listeners to explore love in its many forms, encouraging vulnerability, courage, and deeper connection.
Listen to the episode and know why we dropped legendary Isaac Hayes‘ “I Stand Accused” in here.
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Isaac Hayes (1942–2008) was a pioneering American soul singer, songwriter, musician, and actor known for his deep baritone voice and innovative contributions to soul music. He was a key creative force at Stax Records, co-writing hits like "Soul Man," and gained fame as a solo artist with albums like Hot Buttered Soul (1969). Hayes won an Academy Award and two Grammys for the 1971 Shaft soundtrack, becoming the first Black composer to win an Oscar in a competitive field, and also acted in films and tv shows such as Truck Turner (1974), Escape from New York (1981), Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993), The A-Team (1985) and Miami Vice (1987).
Jimmy Neeley
Jimmy Neely, born around 1930, is an American jazz and rhythm & blues pianist who led a local jazz group in the late 1940s and worked with notable musicians in New York City during the 1950s and 60s. He released albums such as "Misirlou" (1960) and performed with his own trio in New York clubs, contributing to about eleven recording sessions between 1951 and 1969.
Artist Mission Statement
Dylan Meek is on a relentless quest to redefine the language of love and vulnerability. With every note, he transforms raw emotion into timeless anthems, using his virtuosic key playing, soulful voice, and intricate harmonies to bridge past and present. His mission is to inspire genuine connection in a fragmented world, inviting every listener to confront their truths, celebrate their nuances, and experience the catharsis of heartfelt creativity.
Connect with Dylan Online
The LOVE LANGUAGES RELEASE PARTY is in Los Angeles on September 28th at The Peppermint Club. Tix avail here
