Terius Youngdell Nash (born 1977), better known as The-Dream, is an American composer, singer and producer. He is known for co-writing the hits “Umbrella” by Rihanna and “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)” by Beyoncé, alongside his solo work, “Love Hate”, “Love vs. Money”, “Love King” and “1977”. In 2010 he won two Grammys for “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)”.

Nash was born in Rockingham, North Carolina, but at the age of 3 he and his mother moved to Atlanta (where she passed away in 1992, when Nash was 15). His mother's passing affected him deeply, influencing his song-writing; for example in the way that he prefers to write about female power. Nash went to live with his grandfather, a plumber who taught him a thing or two about work ethic. In 2001, Nash started to write songs for numerous artists under the moniker of The-Dream. He produced records like “Complicated”, Nivea's second LP. 2007 saw the release of “Umbrella”. The song's huge success led to his career skyrocketing. That same year he signed with Def Jam Records. Under the wings of the company he created Radio Killa Records, his own label, on which he has so far released three albums: “Love Hate”, “Love vs. Money” and “Love King”, plus the free album “1977”, signed as Terius Nash.

Apart from his work for Nivea and Rihanna, The-Dream has continued to write for numerous artists, including Ciara, Mariah Carey, P. Diddy, Usher, J. Holiday, Mary J. Blige, Brandy, Cassie, Christina Millian, Jamie Foxx and Snoop Dog. Besides music, The-Dream has announced that he's working on a reality show for MTV, in which he will work as a talent scout for young singers. He's also working on the launch of his clothing brand, Millionaire Love Affair.

Selected discography

“Love Hate” (Def Jam, 2007)

“Love vs. Money” (Def Jam, 2009)

“Love King” (Def Jam, 2010)

“1977” (Radio Killa, 2011)