Five Eighty

Substance. Consciousness. Lyrical Prowess. These are all elements that seem to be severely lacking in the current state of Hip Hop. Hip Hop as we know it is changing and among those on the frontlines making the change is Oakland Emcee Five Eighty. Black Dream Entertainment’s premier artist, Five Eighty, is a torchbearer and bridge into the next era of Hip Hop. This Oakland native takes his inspiration from a diverse catalog of artists who have made a mark in musical history. They range from the legendary Billie Holiday- which is exhibited in his soulful choice of production- to Hip Hop Legends Tupac Shakur, Common, and Nas. Five Eighty combines a distinct feeling of spirituality with an edgy street delivery which is sure to please critics and fans alike.



Amir ’Five Eighty’ Abdul-Shakur is a well skilled battle Emcee. Five Eighty perfected his skills through his well-earned rankings in ciphers and freestyle competitions in Oakland and Southern California. Emceeing has become a rare art form. However, Five Eighty is among the few remaining. His street ’n spirituality edge is a direct reflection of his tribulations in life and upbringing. Tragedy would strike in 1997 when his mother succumbed to AIDS. This life-changing ordeal expanded his artistic arsenal, led him to pursue music full time and more importantly led him to Islam. Five Eighty says, "You have to have a certain swagger about you to succeed. I’m coming in the game as a Battle Rapper. I want to resurrect the lost art of Emceeing."



Fans chimed in with accolades on his latest Mixtape effort ’Stakes Is Still High.’ "It’s packed with dope Emcees. I’m proud of Five Eighty for doin’ his thing and raising the stakes. The stakes are definitely still high.""You’re a wordsmith with purpose. Your words hit the surface of mind heart and soul. This is definitely the direction that Muslim artists must be heading towards. Quality production with quality and thought filled rhymes."

http://myspace.com/fiveeighty