Having dominated his Round in the Knockouts Stage, Axel King and his backing band, The Roses, reached the Finals of Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D with a purpose that goes beyond the stage.
Axel’s musical journey has seen him transition from the raw energy of rock stages to the soul-searching depth of blues. Known for his early work fronting indie rock acts and later for his acclaimed solo album, he has been vocal about his personal struggles and overindulgence.
For the rock-and-roller-turned-blues artist, this moment is more than a competitive breakthrough: it’s a step forward in a personal journey of redemption, faith, and renewed direction.
In this candid profile, Axel reflects on what the Contest has meant to him, the craft behind his entry, the Finalists who inspired him along the way, and the advice he received from mentor and friend RJ “Hound” Mercer.
What does the Contest mean to you?
For me, this Contest means a lot more than just getting through another Round. It feels like the next step in my redemption. I’ve been given a chance to stand here, to be heard, and to keep moving forward in a way that I believe is bigger than myself.
I was encouraged to dedicate my life to God. That has been part of the journey, and reaching the Finals has only made that clearer. It’s a reminder that grace can show up in unexpected places.
Tell us about your version of the song.
I wanted the song to feel honest and direct. The production was built to support the message rather than overpower it, so every element had to respect the lyrics.
My approach was to stay focused on conviction. I wanted people to hear not just a performance, but a statement of where I am in life right now. [My version of the song] is meant to reflect struggle, then hope, and the decision to keep going.
Did RJ “Hound” Mercer give you any particular advice?
Yes — and I’m grateful for it. When I decided to start playing the blues, he was the first person I thought of, and I looked up to him as a mentor. When he called to congratulate me, that meant so much.
The advice he gave was simple but powerful: stay grounded, stay true, and don’t lose sight of the reason you started. He reminded me that moments like this can pass quickly if you’re not careful, so I need to keep my focus where it belongs.
If not you, which Finalist would you like to see win?
I’d be happy to see any of the Finalists win, because everyone here earned their place. But if not me, I’d want to see someone who’s carried their own story all the way through the Contest.
Every one of the Finalists has something unique to offer, whether it’s their style of music or their narrative, and I think the best outcome is one that feels meaningful, not just popular.
Which of the other Finalists stood out to you?
A few Acts really stood out across the Rounds. Everybody knows Bryknii, and she made a strong impression out of the gate. There’s also Soline [Bellefort], bringing the French dimension.
High School Dropout also stood out for their youth and confidence, then you have Synth & Son who won the first Round. There’s been a real sense throughout the Contest that all the Finalists brought something distinct to the table.
What’s next after this Contest?
Whatever happens in the Finals, I’ll walk the path I believe I’ve been called to. If this Contest has taught me anything, it’s that there’s always another step, and I intend to take it.
About the Contest
Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D is a collaboration between CATAWOL Records and the MODE Family, in the form of a song contest. 32 of the label’s most talented Acts compete to create the campaign’s official anthem, raising awareness of bullying in hobby spaces.
CATAWOL Records is proud to support the Finalists as they share their voices on a larger stage, while celebrating creativity, resilience and community.