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Dennis Reed Jr.

NASCAR Hall of Fame

part of a series on Create (cre·ate) | Create

About the speaker

Dennis Reed is an award-winning songwriter, recording artist, and CEO of Inspire the Fire Inc., a nonprofit that has empowered hundreds of youth in the Carolinas. His leadership in the arts and commitment to mentoring young people have made him a driving force in both music and community service.

Reed has collaborated with top industry figures, including music director Adam Blackstone, and performed with Justin Timberlake at the Presidential Inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. He also led his Sainted Trap Choir to the finals of America's Got Talent: Fantasy League under Simon Cowell’s mentorship, captivating audiences with their unique fusion of gospel and trap music.

Reed has performed on prestigious stages like Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas and the TIME 100 Gala, where he arranged a performance for Fantasia. His group, Dennis Reed & GAP, contributed to the GRAMMY® Award-winning project Oh Happy Day: An All-Star Musical Celebration.

For his decade-long dedication to youth empowerment, Reed was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from President Obama. His nonprofit, Inspire the Fire, has earned national recognition and a dedicated "Inspire the Fire Day" in Charlotte. With a career rooted in innovation, collaboration, and service, Dennis Reed continues to push boundaries in music and community impact.

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