Apocalipse 16

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

1996–2010

Genres

rap, christian hip hop, hip hop, black music

Biography

Apocalipse 16, also known as APC 16, was a pioneering Brazilian Christian rap group founded in 1996 by rappers Pregador Luo, Charles MC, and DJ Betico. Early in their career, the group was launched by Cosa Nostra, the label belonging to Racionais MC's, and frequently opened shows for them, helping to bridge the gap between Christian hip-hop and the broader secular rap scene in Brazil. Their breakout success came with their second album, "2ª Vinda, A Cura" (2000), which addressed social issues and corruption and won Album of the Year at the prestigious Prêmio Hutúz in 2001.

Over the years, the group became renowned for their socially conscious lyrics and powerful testimonies, collaborating with prominent mainstream and gospel acts such as Facção Central, Rappin' Hood, Xis, Thaíde, Exaltasamba, Templo Soul, and FLG. They also established their own independent label, 7 Taças, which eventually functioned as a collective releasing works from various Christian artists. Following lineup changes that saw the departure of the original co-founders, Pregador Luo continued the project with a revolving cast of musicians including Silvera, Lito Atalaia, and Luciano Claw.

The final release under the Apocalipse 16 banner was the live DVD "Árvore de Bons Frutos" in 2010, after which Pregador Luo fully transitioned into his solo career, eventually signing with Universal Music Christian in 2015. In 2020, the group's rich discography was officially made available across major digital streaming platforms under Luo's profile. Their legacy endures as a cornerstone of Brazilian Christian rap, heavily influencing artists who came after them like Lito Atalaia and Silvera.