Growing up on the south side of Atlanta in Clayton County, Derez De’Shon describes his environment as “Jurassic Park,” a place that felt like its own world with its own challenges and a different way of life. His upbringing exposed him to the realities of the streets at an early age, but he also had a father present who tried to teach him the difference between right and wrong.
Derez reflects on being introduced to firearms at just five years old, something he now recognizes as a mistake influenced by being young and naive. Although he was taught better, he ultimately became what he describes as a product of his environment and chose a path that led him into the streets.
At the same time, Derez was a smart kid who performed well in school despite getting into fights. He graduated high school but decided college wasn’t the direction he wanted to take. Music had already started becoming a major part of his life.
His interest in music started early, with Derez remembering freestyling in the cafeteria during middle school. By ninth grade, he had a music production program and began taking his creativity more seriously. His parents were supportive of his musical aspirations, with his father having experience managing artists and his mother also having an interest in rapping.
What started as something he did for fun eventually became his outlet. Derez enjoyed putting words together, experimenting with his flow, and turning his experiences into music. Over time, he developed the raw, emotionally driven sound that would become known as “pain music,” blending street stories with melodic rap and singing.
Derez De’Shon began gaining widespread recognition in 2017 with the release of his breakout mixtape PAIN. The project introduced a wider audience to his sound and featured “Hardaway,” his breakout record and first solo entry on the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at No. 61. Tracks like “Ambition” also helped build his fanbase and establish him as a distinctive voice coming out of Atlanta.
Since then, Derez has continued using music to tell his story, turning personal experiences, struggles, and emotions into records that connect with listeners who can relate to his journey.
Now, Derez De’Shon is opening another chapter with his latest album, I’m Not Ok But…, currently available on all streaming platforms. The 14-track project features Lul Dj, BHM Pezzy, Raysean, Sy Ari Da Kid, Morray & T-Rell, and Young Blifford.
