DEAN and Anderson .Paak have officially reunited on “Aftertaste,” a new single from the original motion picture soundtrack for K-POPS!.
The release marks another chapter in a creative relationship that first caught listeners’ attention nearly a decade ago. In 2015, DEAN and Anderson .Paak teamed up on “Put My Hands On You,” a sleek R&B collaboration that introduced their chemistry at a pivotal moment for both artists.
Since then, their careers have moved in distinct but equally influential directions. DEAN became one of the defining voices of modern Korean R&B, known for his atmospheric production choices, understated delivery, and emotionally precise songwriting. Anderson .Paak has built one of the most versatile catalogues in contemporary music, moving between hip-hop, soul, funk, R&B, live instrumentation, and film.
“Aftertaste” brings those worlds back together with a brighter, more cinematic feel. The track leans into desire, temptation, and the kind of attraction that stays with you after the moment has passed. Its repeated refrain, “I want your aftertaste,” gives the song its central image: something sweet, lingering, and difficult to let go.
The single also arrives with added context through K-POPS!, Anderson .Paak’s feature directorial debut. The project connects his work as a musician, performer, and filmmaker, while also placing Korean music and culture at the centre of the story.
For DEAN, “Aftertaste” adds another international collaboration to a catalogue that has long moved fluidly across Korean R&B, alternative pop, and global hip-hop. For Anderson .Paak, it continues his expansion beyond music while keeping his signature groove and personality intact.
More than a simple reunion, “Aftertaste” feels like a continuation of a conversation that began years ago and still has room to grow.