Dawson has been described by PopMatters as writing "distinctive originals...with an ear for a catchy melody as well as interesting turns of phrase," and by Nashville Public Radio as a, "truly gifted songwriter who writes intelligently crafted lyrics married to unforgettable melodies." Her true-to-life songwriting is featured in her performances with the Lynda & Pattie duo and her family music project Little Root and were a mainstay of the Kickin Grass Band sound for over a decade. She teaches songwriting camps and workshops for kids and adults, has been featured at the IBMA Songwriter Showcase in both 2007 and 2012 and was honored to be a judge for the Chris Austin Songwriting Contest at MerleFest in 2013.