Quinto Andar

Origin

Niterói, RJ

Years active

1999–2005

Genres

hip hop, rap, brazilian hip hop

Instruments

turntables, vocals

Biography

Quinto Andar was a Brazilian rap group formed in 1999 in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, with the goal of producing a distinct style of hip hop that differed from the prominent São Paulo scene at the turn of the millennium. Started as a garage band, the collective gained popularity by releasing their compositions directly on the internet for fans to download, preceding the digital era of independent music distribution. Their lineup featured numerous notable artists and producers, including De Leve, MC Marechal, Shawlin, and Kamau.

In 2002, the group achieved widespread recognition with the music video for their track "Eu Rimo na Direita," created in collaboration with Apavoramento Sound System. That same year, they earned a nomination for Revelation of the Year at the Prêmio Hutúz, one of the most prestigious awards in Brazilian rap, ultimately losing to the legendary Sabotage. Their growing underground influence culminated in the release of their only official studio album, Piratão, in 2005, through a partnership with Lobão's OutraCoisa magazine.

The album featured standout tracks such as "Rap do Calote" and "Melô do Piratão," showcasing their humorous and innovative approach to hip hop. Shortly after the release of Piratão, the group disbanded in 2005 due to conflicting circumstances among its members. Despite their relatively short-lived existence and solitary album, Quinto Andar left a lasting legacy on the independent Brazilian hip hop landscape, helping pave the way for future collaborative rap collectives.