Dean, born Kwon Hyuk, has made a significant impact on both the South Korean and international music scenes as an alternative R&B singer-songwriter, rapper, and producer. His journey into music began during his school years, where he used music as an escape from academic pressures. Initially writing songs in secret, he was eventually supported by his parents and began performing with hip-hop artist Keith Ape at sixteen. By eighteen, he was already crafting tracks for K-pop idols under the moniker 'Deanfluenza,' inspired by James Dean's rebellious persona and the notion of creating a viral influence.
Dean's official debut in the U.S. came in 2015 with the single "I'm Not Sorry," featuring Grammy winner Eric Bellinger. This move set him apart, as most Korean artists typically start their careers domestically. His collaborations with American artists like Anderson Paak and Mila J further cemented his position in the international music arena. In South Korea, his second single, "Pour Up" featuring Zico, earned critical acclaim, winning Best R&B and Soul Song at the Korean Music Awards. His debut EP, 130 Mood: TRBL, released in 2016, showcased his talent and versatility, charting high on both Korean and international charts.
Dean's collaborations and contributions extended beyond his own releases. He worked with prominent Korean artists like Taeyeon, Heize, and Crush, and produced tracks for various K-pop acts, including EXO and VIXX. His 2016 single "D (half moon)" and the collaborative track "Bermuda Triangle" with Zico and Crush were particularly well-received, with the latter debuting at number three on Billboard's World Digital Songs chart. Dean also gained recognition as a producer on shows like Show Me the Money 6, where he and Zico were the winning producers.
In 2017, Dean released the single album Limbo and participated in several high-profile campaigns and collaborations. His track "Instagram" topped South Korean music charts, demonstrating his continued relevance and appeal. Dean also ventured into acting for commercials and worked on environmental campaigns. In 2019, he reunited with his crew Fanxy Child for a concert and new music, maintaining his presence in the music scene despite a quieter period.
After a hiatus, Dean began featuring on various tracks and preparing for a comeback. In 2023, he released "Die 4 You," marking his return to the charts. His reappearance on Instagram hinted at more upcoming projects. In early 2024, Dean collaborated with Tabber, and they announced a multi-city tour of Asia, signaling his active return to the music industry.
All throughout his time in the spotlight, Dean's career has been characterized by his smooth R&B sound, innovative collaborations, and ability to cross cultural and musical boundaries. Described as the "R&B prince of Asia," he has garnered praise for his performances and contributions to the genre. His unique blend of American and Korean influences, along with his distinctive voice and style, continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
