Sony Music Publishing has signed veteran producer Mike Dean along with Sean Solymar, Tommy Rush and Sage Skolfield, members of his producer collective, M.W.A. The deal includes a strategic partnership with M.W.A. to foster the creative development of its latest talent.

As a producer, engineer, mixer and multi-instrumentalist, Dean has a body of work spanning across multiple genres, including hip-hop, pop, experimental rock and soul. His career began in the early ‘90s with Rap-A-Lot Records, Geto Boys' Scarface, UGK and Devin the Dude. He rose to prominence working with Travis Scott, Beyoncé, Frank Ocean, Kanye West, The Weeknd, Lana Del Rey and Madonna, among many others.

"I am a longtime fan of Mike and his music," SMP Chairman/CEO Jon Platt said. "Not only has he consistently transformed hip-hop, but his creative influence extends across modern music, inspiring new talent through his work with M.W.A. We are pleased to partner with Mike and M.W.A.’s Sean Solymar, Tommy Rush and Sage Skolfield as they continue to shape music’s future.”

Pictured toasting to our much-appreciated absence are (l-r) Skolfield, Loeb & Loeb attorney Devon Spencer, Rush, Solymar, Dean, Platt and Loeb & Loeb attorney Willie Jones.