509-E
| Company type | Musical group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2000 |
| Founder | Dexter, Afro-X |
| Defunct | 2003 |
| Headquarters | Brazil |
| Products | Albums: Provérbios 13 (2000), MMII DC (2002 Depois de Cristo) |
509-E was a Brazilian rap ensemble created by Dexter and Afro-X during their imprisonment at Carandiru Penitentiary. The duo disbanded in 2003, with both artists embarking on individual musical paths.
Career
While incarcerated together in Carandiru Penitentiary, Dexter and Afro-X connected and formed the group. Their initial track, titled "powder keg," marked the beginning of their collaborative work. In 2000, they released their first album, Proverbs 13, which included contributions from notable artists such as Mano Brown, Edy Rock, MV Bill, and DJ Hum.
The pair attracted attention from Brazilian officials following an interview broadcast by Rede Globo, largely due to their candid social commentary. After the closure of Carandiru prison in 2002, law enforcement prohibited 509-E from performing publicly on the streets because of their outspoken activism. Subsequently, Afro-X was released, and the group unveiled their sophomore album, LL DC (2002 after Christ). Ultimately, the members separated, leading to the group's dissolution in 2003.
By May 2025, Dexter had produced four solo albums. Afro-X’s involvement in rap has been sporadic; he became nationally recognized partly through his marriage to Simony and currently dedicates himself to education.
The 2009 documentary Between Light and Shadow, directed by Luciana Burlamaqui, documented 509-E’s journey alongside the broader context of violence in Brazil. This film earned first place at the 4th Mostra Cinema and Human Rights in South America.
Discography
- Provérbios 13 (2000)
- MMII DC (2002 Depois de Cristo) (2002)