Ester Dean is speaking out.
Following Keri Hilson’s interview on The Breakfast Club, where she revealed she was pressured into recording the now-infamous “Turnin Me On” remix, songwriter Ester Dean has publicly taken responsibility for writing the verse many believed was aimed at Beyoncé.
In a statement posted to Instagram, Dean confirmed she co-wrote the remix and expressed regret over its lasting impact.
“I submitted a lot of verses for that remix—one got picked, and it was co-written with Keri,” Dean wrote. “Looking back, it was childish and didn’t age well. I see how it hurt people, especially women, and I take full accountability.”
Dean went on to acknowledge how the controversy has followed both her and Hilson for over a decade.
“I’ve worked with and supported many women since, but that doesn’t erase the moment. I’m sorry for my part in it. Growth is real, and so is this apology.”
While Hilson never named Beyoncé directly in the remix, fans quickly interpreted lyrics like “She can sing, but need to move it to the left” as a clear jab. The BeyHive backlash was intense which ultimately affect Hilson’s career.
During her interview, Hilson revealed just how uncomfortable she was at the time.
“I was crying. I did not want to do it,” she said. “I tried to write my own version, but the label had made it clear—no remix, no album.”
The verse leaked before Hilson’s debut album dropped, sparking a years-long narrative that she had beef with Beyoncé—a rumor that she says affected her mental health and professional opportunities.
