BK
- Origin
- Rio de Janeiro, RJ
- Years active
- 2013–present
- Genres
- rap, hip hop, mpb, funk, samba, r&b, trap
- Instruments
- vocal
Biography
Abebe Bikila Costa Santos, known professionally as BK', is a Brazilian rapper, writer, and composer born on March 20, 1989, in Rio de Janeiro. He is widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in the contemporary Brazilian rap scene. BK's lyrical content often delves into themes such as police brutality, the fight against racism, social inequality, romance, ancestry, and bohemian life. His artistic journey began in 2013 when he co-founded the collective Nectar Gang. He gained significant recognition with his debut solo album, "Castelos & Ruínas," released in 2016, which was critically acclaimed and won popular votes for best national rap album of the year. BK's music is characterized by its conscious hip-hop foundation, often infused with elements of Brazilian popular music (MPB), funk, samba, and R&B, creating a unique sound that resonates with both underground and mainstream audiences. He has collaborated with numerous Brazilian artists, including Djonga, L7NNON, and Marina Sena, further solidifying his impact on the national music landscape. His work consistently addresses social commentary alongside melodic flows and narrative depth, positioning him as a vital voice in Brazilian music.
BK's discography includes successful albums such as "Gigantes" (2018), "O Líder Em Movimento" (2020), and "ICARUS" (2022). "ICARUS," in particular, drew parallels to the Greek myth to critique societal barriers faced by marginalized communities and achieved over 2 million streams on its release day. In 2021, he founded his own label, Gigantes, to maintain greater creative control. His fifth studio album, "Diamantes, Lágrimas e Rostos para Esquecer," released in 2025, further explores diverse Brazilian sonorities and themes of self-care and strength. BK's influence extends beyond music, with his artistic vision also impacting visual media and cultural discussions in Brazil.