The career of producer, songwriter, and arranger Kuk Harrell began in his native Chicago, where he performed as a drummer and vocalist before working as a session musician. He eventually became a commercial writer and producer, working for Joy Art Music to create material for McDonald's, Coke, and Kraft, among others. He also toured internationally with Chicago-based band B.G. Vox. After his work in advertising, Harrell moved on to become a children's worship leader, as well as a touring vocalist and choir director for Promise Keepers. During this time, he also sang on tracks that were written and produced by Diane Warren and David Foster. In 2004, Harrell went to Atlanta to work with his cousin, Tricky Stewart, at RedZone Entertainment as a songwriter and producer. By 2007, he had co-written Rihanna's hit "Umbrella" and worked with members of the Pussycat Dolls, Mary J. Blige, Usher, Nicole Scherzinger, Celine Dion, and Sting, among others.