J-Ax (Italiano)

Born Alessandro Aleotti in 1966, J-Ax first made his name in Italian hip-hop as one half of Articolo 31, a duo he formed with DJ Jad in 1988. Their albums, like 'Messa di vespiri' and 'Così Com'è,' found a wide audience with an energetic sound and sharp lyrics. After years with the group, he stepped out on his own in 2006 with the solo album 'Di sana pianta,' which included the hit 'Sognami ancora.'

His solo work has kept him in the Italian mainstream, with records like 'Deca Dance' and 'Il bello d'esser brutti.' Songs such as 'Fattore Wow' and 'Sconosciuti da Una Vita,' a collaboration with Fedez, show his knack for catchy, conversational rap that connects with everyday listeners. He's worked with other Italian artists like Tiziano Ferro and Neffa along the way.

J-Ax's career hasn't been without its rough patches, including a 2003 arrest for drug possession and a 2012 altercation with another rapper. He's continued releasing music, with albums like 'ReAle' in 2019 and 'Surreale' in 2021. His writing often touches on social themes, from economic inequality to domestic violence, delivered with a direct, sometimes provocative style that has made him a familiar voice in Italian pop culture for over three decades.