What up guys! Welcome to a special Prim’s Plugs Blog Feature with one of the scenes most prolific and unique artists. His blend of hip hop, electronic and dance has graced many a stage in the vibrant underground circuit. He is known for his high-energy performances and unique storytelling over self-produced instrumentals.
My guest today is my good friend and the highly talented Dean Barry Revell, better known as his stage name therevella. Enjoy!
Thanks for your time Dean, take us back to when you first encountered rap. What was your introduction to the genre?
I first remember rap from the Chaka Khan smash “I Feel for You,” featuring Melle Mel. I was 8 years old, listening to it through over-ear headphones on our turntable. I was just blown away by it. From there, breakdancing took over—everyone had their Ghetto Blasters, and I was trying my hand at moves like “The Caterpillar.” I failed miserably at it, but I could pull off a decent backspin. That whole scene was just electric!
Sounds like music was everywhere around you. What did your parents listen to?
Yeah, definitely. My parents’ vinyl collection was pretty funky. They had Hot Chocolate, Michael Jackson, and even “A Motown Christmas.” My dad was especially into “Ain’t No Sunshine.” Music was in the house, but nobody really played or performed it, at least not in a professional sense.
So, it seems like you were a bit of a collector yourself. What did you do with all those records?
Oh, totally! I would record the more underground hits off the chart countdowns every Sunday night and stash them away in the loft. I had Deep Heat 4, house hits, all sorts of things. I was really into movie scores too—some of those compositions just hit different.
"It took years of trial and error, but now, after three failed campaigns, I’m really feeling like I’ve got something solid"
therevella, let’s talk about your first taste of hip-hop. Do you remember what your first records were?
Yes! My first 7-inch vinyl was “Push It” by Salt-N-Pepa. Classic. Then, for 12 inches, it was all about 2 Live Crew’s Live. School discos were a vibe too—Lil Louis, French Kiss, S’Express. We used to mess with the DJ and make him play the songs we wanted. We were little terrors, honestly.
It sounds like the rave scene also played a big part in your life. Can you elaborate on that?
Rave really hit when I was 15, and 1991—the second Summer of Love—changed everything for me. It was all about unity, the energy of the MCs. When the right MC was on the mic, they could elevate the whole experience. The MC really became the king in that moment. I was deep in the scene, soaking it all in.
But you didn’t just listen to music, you also started making it. How did you get into production?
Well, after my first job, I was immersed in classic and modern rock, which grew on me. But I always knew music would be huge in my life. I got my hands on Cubase 4 when I was 26, and that’s when it clicked. I took a few piano lessons, dabbled in music production, and started making beats. I wasn’t even thinking about lyrics at first, but before long, I realized I was writing full songs. It took years of trial and error, but now, after three failed campaigns, I’m really feeling like I’ve got something solid.
therevella
therevella, You mentioned writing and performing a lot. How did you hone your craft over time?
A lot of it was just trial and error. I started out DJing and performing at open mic nights. I even promoted events just to test my music in front of people. My big break came when I wrote a 5-track self-titled EP last year. I had it professionally mixed and mastered, and to this day, I still believe in it. It’s a blend of reggae, funk, classical, and rock—almost apocalyptic in a way. You can check it out on Spotify. I also experiment with different genres, like garage and 2-step, and have a whole pop-rock album brewing in my head.
therevella! What’s your process for writing and performing now?
I rehearse at least once a week—full dance moves, full vocals. I love to experiment with different characters, vocal styles, and dance moves. It’s about pushing my limits, stepping out of my comfort zone. I also have a small home studio where I produce using Ableton Live 12. I’m a night owl, so most of my creative work happens in the twilight hours. I’ve got the stamina for it, averaging 8 hours of sleep, but sometimes I’ll sneak in two or three small naps. It’s all part of the grind.
So, what inspires you? Is it just music, or do you pull from other aspects of life?
Positivity and joy are huge inspirations. The coast, the vibe of the air—it all feeds me. I listen to Classical FM every morning while I do my full-body stretch. During the day, I’m tuned into F.B.i. Radio. And I’ve got a massive CD collection—800+ CDs that track over 100 years of great music. Music is my constant companion, and it’s my escape, my solace, and what keeps my spirits up.
therevella, Your sound is unique, blending genres, but what’s next for you?
I’m working on my second EP and already have most of it ready for release. I’m even making a film clip for “Beach.” I’ve got plans to make a video for “Skank” as well. I’m constantly pushing myself to experiment with new ideas—right now, I’m exploring some darker, broken beats, but also thinking about a pop-rock album. So many ideas! My performances are happening a couple of times a week, too, thanks to venues like MoshPit Bar and Hustle and Flow Bar.
It’s clear that you’ve been grinding. How do you feel about the future of your music career?
I believe in what I’m doing. I know my sound is big enough to rock any stage—whether it’s a stadium or a festival. I’m putting the work in, and I’m trying to create those “lucky” opportunities people talk about. I’m confident in my product, my sound, and my presentation on platforms like Instagram. But it’s all about consistency. Keep pushing, and eventually, it’ll pay off.
What does music mean to you, personally?
Music has been my lifeline—it’s helped me through some of the toughest times, like when my dad passed away. And more recently my younger brother. Life has been severely testing me. I’ve been performing very little but once again, locking myself away in the studio has saved my life. Literally. But me, as hard as it is I look for Lemonade and Silver Linings. The title of my next, imminent release.!”
It’s also been the source of my happiest moments. If I can give that same feeling to someone else through my music, I’ll die a happy man. It’s not just about the beats—it’s about the connection, the way it makes people feel. And that’s the greatest gift I can offer.
Final question: What’s next for you in 2025?
More music, more performances, more experimenting with sound and style. I’m planning to release my next EP, and I’m really pushing to get my music out there. It’s all about getting my work to as many people as possible and making sure the vibe stays true. One step at a time, I’m trying to bring it home!
Big love to therevella for taking the time to share so deeply with us. I have had the honour of seeing Dean perform many times and it is nothing short of an electric experience.
Huge love to everyone rocking with ya boy Primitive.
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