SQU4RE DEAL
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Herm Dawson, also known as SQU4RE DEAL, is the creative linchpin and Creative Director of HecticMindstate Music. A man whose very nickname is a testament to his unique skill set: he's the one who "puts the square on the circle," initiating and completing deals and projects that others might deem impossible.
Hailing from the storied Westside of Detroit, Herm's creative and entrepreneurial spirit was forged early. After graduating from the prestigious Renaissance High School, he headed to the College for Creative Studies Detroit, where he majored in Communication Design and Strategy with a minor in Creative Entrepreneurship. This formal education provided the foundation for a mind that thinks not just creatively, but strategically.
Long before he was a Creative Director, he was an early e-commerce innovator. At the tender age of 14, he launched a website to sell customized, knock-off AF1s, which, in retrospect, was a masterclass in early online retail. His entrepreneurial journey continued with the launch of SQU4RE BLOCK TEES, a boutique t-shirt company that showcased his keen eye for design and his business savvy.
It’s no wonder the HecticMinds crew calls him "The Mouth Piece." His communication, presentation, and negotiation skills are off the charts, making him the perfect point person for bringing ideas to life. In fact, his organizational and networking skills are so legendary, he's earned another title: "The Dot Connector." It was a no-brainer for him to join HecticMindstate. As the cousin of Bolie Jackson, he was introduced to JAMES I.V., and after a single conversation with the rest of the HecticMinds, they knew they had to hand him the creative keys.
Beyond the business, Herm is a man of diverse passions. He’s an indie movie enthusiast, a true connoisseur of unique storytelling, with a special appreciation for the work of filmmakers like Mike Jeffers and Miles Naasir Reuben, and everything from The Collective Studios in Southfield. His heart belongs to the Motor City, especially the iconic "Bad Boys" era of the Detroit Pistons. When he's not busy connecting people or making deals, he enjoys collecting the meticulously crafted Shinola watches, a fitting hobby for a man who appreciates unique aesthetics and details.
While his energy can be described as frenetic, he finds balance through his practice of Nichiren Buddhism, which keeps him hyper-focused and positive, even in the most hectic situations. SQU4RE DEAL embodies a perfect synthesis of raw creativity, sharp business acumen, and grounded philosophy, making him a truly indispensable force behind HecticMindstate Music.