Congolese rapper Passi is one of France's early hip-hop purveyors. Kicking off his career with the group Ministère AMER, he released his debut solo album in '97—it went gold within weeks, with its deep, relaxed tone nailing the hip-hop/R&B crossover sound. A tireless collaborator, Passi hooked up with Bisso Na Bisso, releasing two group albums before his next solo album in '00. Addressing social inequality, religion and the music industry, Passi's hardcore rap is balanced by accessible pop tracks, like on '07 outing Evolution.
