From the east side of Columbus, Ohio to Eastern Europe and the Far East, Dean Francis and his music have been recognized for musical and lyrical excellence. Dean was exposed to music by his parents starting with piano lessons at age six. He was nurtured by drum lessons at age thirteen, and empowered by his music studies in Columbus City Schools, Central State and Capital Universities. Dean emerged as an international, award-winning media producer, composer, and musical recording artist.
In 1972, Dean composed and directed the first "Black Rock Opera" of record in the United States, called "Society Line". Staged at the Ohio Theater in Columbus, Ohio, this production drew great reviews and gave an early indication of what this playwright was to render during his entertainment career.
Dean went on to compose and direct the musical, "Kids", in 1978. With performances at Capital University's Mees Hall, this production met critical acclaim and preceded his entry into the television and video production arena.
In 1984, Dean wrote and delivered the first Ohio Lottery TV/radio ad campaign featuring Black people. It was a rap jingle called, "I Had To Play That Number". The jingle won two international awards at the International Film and TV Festival in 1984. He continued to write many popular radio jingles for area businesses and organizations before turning his attention back to his musical artistry.
"This Grooves For You", Dean's debut CD, was released in 1995 in Europe, Japan, and selected markets in the United States. Though this CD sold marginally in Europe, it received many kudos from European newspaper and magazine music critics. Since its release, Dean has completed a limited tour of Germany, and recorded his second CD.
"Black As All That" is the title of his second CD was released in the spring of 1998 on Soulciety Records. It was distributed in 27 countries throughout the world. "Black As All That", the video, was released in January, 1998 as a prelude to the release of the CD. This production follows the international award winning music video "Without Guns" which was written, produced, directed, and performed by Dean in 1994.
Dean Francis performed as keyboard player and drummer for the 70's Funk band, "Sun", based in Dayton, Ohio. Before leaving the group in 1982, they recorded three albums on Capital Records. He also played with various Columbus, Ohio area bands including The Associated Press Band, The Capsoul Group, and the Inner City Blues Band. Dean is the President of Music Media International, his own media production and publishing company.
Dean Francis is also a highly respected human service professional, and motivational speaker. His youth leadership experience includes service with the Upward Bound Program, Riverview School, Columbus Youth Services Bureau, Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center, Columbus City Schools, Franklin County Childrens Services, and the J. Ashburn Youth Center.
Dean's community activities have included advocacy for the homeless, and the founding of the Minority Musicians Guild in 1991. He has served as a Project Coordinator and Professional Development Trainer at the Columbus Urban League, and was the former Executive Director at the Franklinton Job Shop. Dean currently serves as an Employment Specialist for The Commons at Grant.
Dean is a product of Columbus City Schools, and a graduate of Capital University.
