Speedfreaks

Origin

Niterói, RJ

Also known as

Speed

Years active

1989–2010

Genres

rap, hip hop

Instruments

vocal

Biography

Claudio Marcio de Souza Santos, known artistically as Speedfreaks or simply Speed, was born on May 16, 1972, and stood out as one of the pioneers of rap on the Brazilian scene. Starting his artistic journey in Niterói in the late 1980s, he initially gained prominence through freestyle performances and appearances on compilation albums and records by major names in national music, such as the group Planet Hemp. His style was characterized by portraying urban reality, crime, and everyday street life with a striking mix of rawness and good humor.

Throughout his career, he formed fundamental partnerships for the development of Brazilian hip hop, most notably the duo Black Alien & Speed alongside singer Gustavo Black Alien. Together, they released highly acclaimed productions, including the hit "Quem que Caguetou?", which gained international projection and a remix by DJ Fat Boy Slim. Speed also collaborated with several renowned artists from different musical branches, such as Fernanda Abreu, Herbert Vianna, Otto, Rappin' Hood, and Marcelo D2, in addition to building a prolific solo discography that encompassed albums like Expresso and Meu Nome é Velocidade.

His journey was tragically cut short on March 26, 2010, when he was murdered in his hometown. The importance of his work for hip hop culture motivated subsequent efforts to preserve and rescue his legacy, culminating in musical cataloging projects, biographies, and audiovisual productions that perpetuate his influence on Brazilian urban music.