Author: Chioma Ugo Nwachukwu

Dera has released his first EP under Black Diamond, Deragon. This release includes his first three singles under the Black Diamond umbrella, “Sade” and “Any Other Day,” released in April, and “Saroje” released in August.

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Making a name for himself with his smooth and fun melodies, Dera’s Deragon invites listeners into his world to feel the music he has poured himself into. Deragon captures the range of his sound and embodies the type of music Dera wants to present to the world. “This project is more than just songs, but a way of introducing myself fully into the [music] industry while laying a strong foundation for the great things ahead,” Dera explains.

According to Dera, Deragon, a mashup of Dera and dragon, represents balance, confidence, patience, resilience, and self-belief, drawing on characteristics that he has carried throughout his journey as an artist. Dera was drawn to dragons to show duality in his nature and music, since dragons have two types that show different qualities; one, being fire breathing, destructive while the other symbolizes calm power, benevolence and wisdom. 

Deragon is also the name he has given to his blossoming fanbase to build community around his music.

Dera worked with various producers on his EP including Shabba (“Sade”), Chokeboi (“Saroje” and “Police”), NYRP (“Aquafina”) and GRAMMY®-Award Winning producer, KrazyTunez (“Any Other Day,” “Kala,” and “On Daily”). He says “Working with multiple producers on this EP was a blessing. Each of them brought their own flavor and energy, which helped shape the sound in a very unique way. I love collaborations, and this project really showed me how powerful it can be when creative minds connect.”

The EP also features Sammie Cash on “Kala” and Jeriq on the Amapiano-inspired “On Daily.”

Dera says, “Working with Sammie Cash was all about that alte, smooth, calm bounce with sprinkles of Afropop flavor. He’s one of those rappers that understands melody and rhythm, so the connection was natural. While working with Jeriq was pure energy from start to finish. He’s got this raw, real sound that speaks to the streets, and I respect that. Bringing our worlds together on one track felt special, two different stories, same hustle spirit. Big love to Jeriq.”

KrazyTunez says “Working with Dera on most of the songs just felt natural. We vibe easily and the creative flow is always effortless.”

  With Deragon, Dera hopes that “listeners connect deeply with [his] music, artistry, and story.” Dera believes that Deragon carries “love, vibrant energy, and a laid-back vibe, with songs that can soothe the soul, help you unwind, make you bop, and even get you jumping.”

Dera is one of the first artists signed to Black Diamond and Deragon is his first EP under the label. 

Wande Coal first introduced the world to Dera via Instagram in May 2024 and has been under his mentorship over the last couple of years.

Black Diamond is a music label founded by Afrobeats legend, Wande Coal. Black Diamond’s mission is to invest in talented musicians from across the globe, nurturing their skills and promoting Africa’s presence on the world stage.