509-E

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

2000–2003; 2019-presente

Genres

rap, hip hop, gangsta rap

Biography

509-E is a Brazilian rap group formed by Dexter and Afro-X while incarcerated in the Casa de Detenção de São Paulo, also known as Carandiru.

The group's name originates from the cell number they shared, 509-E, in the prison's seventh pavilion. Their lyrics powerfully narrated the harsh realities of life in the favelas and within the penitentiary system, giving voice to the incarcerated and marginalized.

Their debut album, "Provérbios 13," was released in 2000, with production by prominent figures in the Brazilian rap scene like Mano Brown and Edi Rock from Racionais MC's, MV Bill, and DJ Hum. The group dissolved in 2003 as Dexter and Afro-X pursued solo careers, but they reunited in 2019 for a series of shows. Dexter later announced his departure from the group.