MOD SUN

MOD SUN, born Derek Ryan Smith in 1987, is a multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, and rapper who has become a prominent figure in pop-punk and alternative hip-hop. Hailing from a farm in Minnesota, he grew up immersed in music, inspired by his father’s connection to Sublime drummer Bud Gaugh and supported by his mother’s encouragement to attend local shows. MOD SUN, which stands for “Movement on Dreams, Stand under None,” received his first Fender Strat at age nine and began pursuing music seriously by 14, performing in pop-punk and post-hardcore bands such as Sideline Heroes, The Semester, and Four Letter Lie. While touring as a drummer, he discovered his passion for performing as a frontman, leading him to freestyle and record his own tracks. In 2009, he released his first full-length album, I’ll Buy Myself, entirely self-produced in his bedroom, kickstarting a prolific solo career that includes EPs and mixtapes like The Hippy Hop EP, In Mod We Trust, and Howlin’ at the Moon. His debut album as MOD SUN, Look Up, hit #1 on the Billboard charts and featured collaborations with Machine Gun Kelly, Travis Barker, blackbear, and G-Eazy. Known for lyrics that combine vulnerability with positivity, he addresses love, loss, addiction, and perseverance, resonating deeply with fans. Subsequent releases include Movie, BB, Internet Killed the Rockstar, and singles such as “Flames” with Avril Lavigne and “Down” with Travis Barker. Beyond music, MOD SUN is recognized for high-profile collaborations and relationships, including with Bella Thorne and Avril Lavigne, and his work co-writing MGK’s VMA-winning single “Bloody Valentine.” With his upbeat energy, emotional honesty, and relentless creativity, MOD SUN continues to inspire fans worldwide through his music and message of resilience.