DPS Article

Quote 1: “Its funny to me how life switched up, one day I was big time the next I was a completely different person”

Biography: DEAN was the first female rapper to win all the Grammys she was nominated in, in 2005 (17). Since coming out, she unfortunately fell into a deep depression in 2008. Luckily, she has risen from the pain, struggle and traumas of her life. After months of rehab she has made it back in the scene and has definitely made an impact in rap history.  

Interview:

Three nights after the throat shredding four-night stand at the London’s Jazz Café downtown Croydon, Deanna Harry, seems relieved merely to be talking. At the age of 26 DEAN is making it back in the world of rap.  Breaking conventions of our society, Dean has risen through the criticisms of others, which has made her who she is today.  Rumours and false allegations are going to be clarified.  

How did you first start?

I think, I was about 14 when I started rapping my father’s café in Chicago. But because I'm a girl I had to say it was poems, my mother wouldn't allow me to rap. Not a lot of people came to my gigs. Having 20 people in there is what I called a “full house”. Then one day, in December, a man named Nick spoke to me. It was weird to see him there because the café wasn't a really popular. He was like ‘”Your amazing, I think you could become someone major in the world. I'm from Sub Pop Records, give me a call.” Words ill never forget.

How was it to make history?

Winning the 3 Grammys in one night at the age of 17… Still very shocking because most 17 year olds are at college you know. I’m just thankful for everything.

In 2008 you were declared bankrupt and then fell into depression, how was that?

I feel like being bankrupt was the main reason why I became depressed. It was just the pressure which put me down. The feeling of not being able to live up the expectations scared me and I was extremely frightened of what people thought of me. It’s funny to me how life switched up, one day I was big time the next I was a completely different person. In rehab all I did was write poems and new raps. The music really helped me overcome everything. I felt free and I wanted the world to see the new updated me.  This might be the reason why I’m passionate about my music because its personal to me. It means a lot.

What challenges did you face earlier in your career?

I feel like I’m in denial about a lot of things. Just because I really don’t like thinking about them hard times. The most challenging part of my career was coming out. It is already tough being a female in the rap world so I kept it as a secret for years. As I said I didn’t want to be judged. But when I came out the response was extraordinary. My family and my fans accepted me. This made me feel happier and secure.

It has been rumoured that you have new alter egos. When are we going to meet them?

Yeah, it is true. I have so many new things coming out. For example, my clothing campaign linked with Puma and the fragrance line, which is almost done. I’m really excited about the upcoming year but my alter egos would not be released just yet. When my album ‘Green Light’ comes out that’s when the world is going to meet them. I’m really excited for them to be seen by the world.

Where do you see yourself in a 10 years?

In 10 years, I want to be writing music for other people. I feel like at that time I would have so much experience I would be able to mentor the younger generation. The children are the future, so I want them to be prepared to face the music industry and help keep the music industry, especially rap/hip pop, alive.