For producer HeyTaewon, the journey into music wasn’t something that was planned from childhood. It came from a moment of uncertainty, self-reflection, and a decision to completely change the direction of his life.
Born into a military family, HeyTaewon spent much of his childhood moving from place to place. Every few years meant a new city, a new school, and a new environment. Because of that lifestyle, he never truly felt like he had a hometown growing up. It wasn’t until he landed in Seattle, Washington, that he finally found a place he could call home.
Seattle became more than just another stop along the way. It became the city where he spent the most time, discovered who he was, and ultimately found the career path that would change his life.
Music was always present in his upbringing. His father introduced him to legendary artists like Tupac, Biggie, The Roots, Jurassic 5, and De La Soul. Those records laid the foundation for his appreciation of hip-hop and storytelling. As he got older, he started exploring music on his own, diving into the sounds of T-Pain, Akon, 50 Cent, and Lil Wayne.
By high school, his taste evolved again as he became drawn to the new wave of West Coast artists. Names like Drakeo the Ruler, Shoreline Mafia, SOB x RBE, and Mike Sherm helped shape the sound and culture he connected with most. Those influences would eventually become a major part of his own musical identity.
Ironically, music wasn’t always the plan.
In 2020, at 22 years old, HeyTaewon found himself struggling financially and trying to figure out what direction his life should take. Like many members of his family, he was considering joining the military. It seemed like the safest path forward.
Then one unexpected night changed everything.
While driving from Tacoma back to Seattle at around three o’clock in the morning, his car broke down. With no tow truck available until later that morning, he was stuck on the side of the road with nothing but time to think. For hours, he reflected on his future and what he truly wanted from life.
By the time the sun came up, he had made a promise to himself. He was going to dedicate himself to music production and become one of the best at it.
That decision became the turning point.
He began producing music and quickly developed a sound rooted in West Coast culture while remaining versatile enough to move between different moods and styles. Whether creating soulful records, pain-filled melodies, or grimy street anthems, his production always carries the hard-hitting bass and energy that define West Coast music.
As his reputation grew, so did the list of artists who wanted to work with him.
Over the years, HeyTaewon has built an impressive catalog alongside some of the biggest names in West Coast hip-hop. His production credits include collaborations with Mozzy, Big Sad 1900, EBK Jaaybo, Drakeo the Ruler, Ketchy the Great, Lou Deezi, DB Boutabag, $tupid Young, MB Nel, Blueface, Philthy Rich, Lefty Gunplay, Peysoh, Bravo the Bagchaser, Chito Rana$, Daboii, Acito, Lil Bean, ZayBang, Lil Pete, and Lil Yee.
Many of the records he’s helped create were recorded in Los Angeles and throughout the Bay Area, allowing him to stay connected to the regions that continue to inspire his sound.
Despite his growing success, HeyTaewon hasn’t forgotten the people who believed in him early on. He gives credit to his Seattle home team, including Clive100k, Jody Cash, Kash Keek, Cotto, Lil Boof, and his longtime friend Young P. Those relationships helped fuel his confidence during the early stages of his career when everything was still uncertain.
Today, HeyTaewon continues to push forward with new releases and collaborations. His latest project is a collaborative EP with Beezy2Janky, featuring three new tracks. Beyond that, he has multiple EPs lined up for release throughout the summer, showing no signs of slowing down.
As both a producer and curator of talent, he’s also passionate about highlighting the next generation of artists. Among the names he believes listeners should pay attention to are Tooda Osama, OsosuckaK, Flashy B, Sietegang Yabbie, Maika Million, Beezy2Janky, Lil Sheik, Yung X, Myles, BMG Dmack, Moneybagz Buzz, and Mikejack3200.
