The Korean R&B singer-songwriter is now making waves as a performer, writes Bibi Nurshuhada Ramli
IN the South Korean music industry, artistes who can sing and dance are in abundance, as seen in the ever-growing K-pop scene. However, the spotlight these days shines more on those who can also write and compose music.
For 23-year-old newbie R&B artiste Dean, music composition came first. At 18, he had extensively written and produced songs for American and South Korean stars. By 20, under the stage name Deanfluenza, he became part of a Los Angeles-based songwriting team which produced K-pop group EXO’s worldwide hit Growl, and Justin Bieber’s pop track, One Less Lonely Girl. Last year though, Dean made his mark as a performer. He debuted in the US, with the single I’m Not Sorry, featuring Grammy winner Eric Bellinger.
It was considered an achievement since he was the first Korean to collaborate with an American artiste before his own debut in his home country. I’m Not Sorry was followed by Dean’s South Korean debut single Pour Up, featuring Korean group Block B’s rapper Zico, released in October of the same year.
Last March, Dean became the first Asian artiste to perform at Spotify House at South by Southwest (SXSW), an annual conglomerate of film, interactive media and music festivals and conferences.
“I figured it would be worthwhile to try my luck as a singer as well, instead of just writing songs,” said Dean at a Press conference when he was in town earlier this month. “Now that I’m a singer, I’ve learnt a lot more about the music industry and what goes on behind it.
“I also get to meet different people, see the world more and interact more closely with fans from all over the world.
“That’s why I’m feeling so blessed to have this chance to grow not only as an artiste but also as an individual.”
MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC
Born Kwon Hyuk, he took Dean as a stage name because he was fascinated by the late American actor James Dean’s rebellious image.
“Like how James Dean had influenced the cinematic world, I’d like to leave an impact just as strong as he did, but in music.”
The singer-songwriter is becoming even more popular with the release of his debut EP, 130 Mood: TRBL, last March.
This self-composed, self-written seven-track EP includes Pour Up; it won Best R&B And Soul Song at the 13th Korean Music Awards recently.
Apparently, the songs are placed in reverse order of one man’s love story, from falling in love with a young woman to suffering heartbreak. He likens the songs to movie scenes where different emotions and themes come into play.
“As you listen to the songs, you’ll find that they have varying sounds, but eventually they will connect to produce one solid story. I make songs that everyone can enjoy. I had put a lot of effort into them and I hope to release more material in the future. Please look forward to them.”
Dean says that when writing songs, he doesn’t necessarily think about who the singer should be. “I only decide whose vocals will suit it best... myself or others, after I’ve finished writing the song.”
So far, he has written and produced songs for Korean artistes including EXO, VIXX, John Park, Lee Hi, Boys Republic and Block B.
Dean has also been featured in many artistes’ songs, including Starlight (by Taeyeon), Shut Up & Groove (Heize), Bad Vibes Lonely (Dok2) and How Are You These Days? (Dynamic Duo).
“(K-pop group) SHINee vocalist Jonghyun has approached me for a collaboration, but unfortunately our free schedules didn’t match. Maybe next time.”
THE MALAYSIAN EXPERIENCE
Dean was in Malaysia recently as part of his promotional tour where he performed for the MY FM Dare Dare Come 2.0 Roadshow at Sunway Pyramid.
He also held a showcase in Penang, and performed at the AIM Chinese Music Awards show the following day. It was Dean’s first visit here and upon arriving, he was served with an array of local dishes, including nasi lemak.
“I love spicy food. The taste is
very familiar.”
Another favourite is teh tarik, which he calls milk tea. “It’s definitely the best that I’ve tasted,” he said jovially. “I was so tempted to try all the dishes I could get my hands on.”
Like most tourists, he learnt some local words, such as “sayang” (love). He easily made all the girls at the Press conference swoon when he uttered that word adorably.
“I’m so thankful for the warm hospitality from my Malaysian fans. They came to greet me at the airport and gave me presents — I was so surprised!”
He added that he had received a lot of chocolate. “These days, I work out at the gym, so sweets and chocolates may not be good for me,” he said with an embarrassed laugh. “Still, I’m so grateful and touched by my fans’ love and support.”