Raiz

About

Raiz, Neapolitan hip-hop’s elder statesman, isn’t just a rapper; he’s a sonic chronicler of a city that breathes both beauty and hardship. His music, deeply rooted in the Neapolitan dialect, transcends mere language, becoming a visceral expression of Southern Italy’s complex soul. Influenced by the raw energy of Public Enemy and the conscious lyricism of A Tribe Called Quest, Raiz forged a distinct sound by blending traditional Mediterranean melodies with hard-hitting hip-hop beats. His journey began with Almamegretta, the groundbreaking band that fused dub, reggae, and Neapolitan song into a vibrant, globally resonant sound. "Animamigrante" (1993) and "Sanacore" (1995) became seminal albums, establishing Raiz as a voice for the marginalized and a poet of the streets. After pursuing solo ventures, including exploring electronic textures and traditional Neapolitan ballads, he remains a force. Raiz's impact extends beyond the music charts. He is a cultural ambassador, bringing Neapolitan identity to the forefront of global conversation. Collaborations with artists like Massive Attack and Pino Daniele showcase his ability to bridge musical divides. Continuing to evolve, Raiz currently explores cinematic soundscapes, blending electronic elements with the raw emotion of his vocals, proving that his artistic journey is far from over.