Jan Berry was an American musician, best known as one half of the pioneering surf rock duo, Jan and Dean. Berry's music, characterized by its catchy melodies and vocal harmonies, significantly contributed to the popularity of the surf music genre in the 1960s. He co-wrote several of the duo's hit songs, including the iconic "Dead Man's Curve." Berry's work not only defined the Southern California sound, but also influenced the style of other artists, such as the Beach Boys.