Dez was a DJ, producer, and label owner based in London, whose career spanned three decades in the evolving landscape of entertainment. His love for music was nurtured from a young age in a household steeped in record collecting, thanks to his father’s extensive collection of black music. Dez himself began exploring this captivating realm in his early teens.

In the early 1970s, he immersed himself in the underground club scene, frequently dancing at iconic venues such as Crackers, Birds Nest, and Whisky A Go Go (now known as The Wag), where he earned the moniker Unknown Kwantity for his ability to energize the crowd. His debut as a DJ came when he filled in for the resident DJ, Sonny, at the Whisky. Soon after, he collaborated with fellow DJ Trevor Shakes, and together they launched the underground club Spats, which ran for three years and garnered a notable reputation, attracting influential figures and future stars who came to experience its vibrant atmosphere.

Dez maintained his prominent status with subsequent gigs at Browns and The Maze (also known as Upstairs at Ronnies or Scotts). In 1987, he was approached by RCA to compile and launch the Rare (7) album series, which played a pivotal role in igniting the rare groove revival in the UK. The inaugural release entered the national album charts at number 75, marking a significant milestone for underground rare black music. The series produced four additional volumes and a Best Of compilation, featuring numerous breaks, beats, samples, and loops.

Following this success, Dez compiled Motown Rare Grooves and Prelude One for RCA. Simultaneously, he contributed to several pirate radio stations in London, including WBLS, Dance FM, and Laser. During this prolific period, Dez and several associates founded TUF Records, which kicked off with a cover of Sweet Charles' "Yes It's You" by Diana Brown & The Brothers, a track that became a significant underground club hit and led to the formation of The Brand New Heavies.

While TUF Records produced well-received projects from Zinc and Rodeo Jones, the label eventually closed after a hip-hop release by East Side Connection. Dez then partnered with Ace Records, compiling The Best of Pleasure Volumes I and II, along with further compilations like All Spice, Jazz Collective, and The Best of Pucho and the Latin Soul Brothers. Later, he was invited by Mastercuts to compile albums for them, resulting in Classic Rare Groove Vol. 1 and Classic Rare Groove Vol. 2.

Dez remained active in various facets of the music industry until his passing on November 11, 2022.