Shanti Dope feat HELLMERRY - No Snitches | LYRIC VISUALIZER

Filipino rapper Shanti Dope, born Sean Patrick Ramos on April 15, 2001, in Quezon City, Philippines, has rapidly ascended the ranks of the local hip-hop scene with his compelling storytelling and dynamic collaborations. His latest track, "No Snitches," featuring fellow artist HELLMERRY, exemplifies his continued evolution and commitment to addressing societal themes through music.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Growing up in Manila, Shanti Dope was introduced to the world of rap at a young age. He began writing verses in 2013, inspired by local rap icons such as Smugglaz, Loonie, Ron Henley, and Gloc-9. His dedication to the craft led to a feature on Smugglaz's 2015 album "Walking Distance," marking his initial foray into the industry. The moniker "Shanti Dope" reflects his personal philosophy, combining "Shanti," the Sanskrit word for peace—a nod to his father's practice of Krishna Consciousness—and "Dope," symbolizing his passion for music. citeturn0search0

Rise to Prominence

In 2017, Shanti Dope released his self-titled EP, followed by "Materyal," which featured the breakout single "Nadarang." The track's raw depiction of youthful experiences resonated widely, amassing over 20 million streams on platforms like Spotify and YouTube within months of its release. This success solidified his status as a formidable voice in Filipino hip-hop. citeturn0search2

Artistic Collaborations and Achievements

Shanti Dope's career is marked by notable collaborations that have expanded his musical horizons. He has worked alongside esteemed artists such as Gloc-9, KZ Tandingan, and international acts like Krayzie Bone of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. These partnerships have not only diversified his sound but also garnered critical acclaim, including multiple awards and nominations from prestigious bodies like the Awit Awards and Myx Music Awards. citeturn0search24

Controversies and Cultural Impact

In 2019, Shanti Dope released "Amatz," a track that sparked controversy due to its perceived references to drug use. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) sought to ban the song, alleging it promoted illegal substances. However, Shanti Dope and his management clarified that "Amatz" was a celebration of natural highs derived from music and life experiences, not an endorsement of drug use. This incident ignited discussions on artistic freedom and censorship in the Philippines. citeturn0search26

"No Snitches" Featuring HELLMERRY

Continuing his trajectory of impactful music, Shanti Dope's latest release, "No Snitches," features frequent collaborator HELLMERRY. The track delves into themes of loyalty and the street code, underscored by a gritty, hard-hitting beat that complements the serious subject matter. HELLMERRY's contribution adds depth to the song, creating a dynamic interplay between the artists. Their partnership has been well-received in previous projects, and "No Snitches" is poised to further their collective impact on the local hip-hop landscape.

Legacy and Future Endeavors

At just 23, Shanti Dope has made significant strides in the music industry, using his platform to shed light on societal issues and personal experiences. His fearless approach to storytelling and collaboration continues to resonate with a broad audience, solidifying his role as a pivotal figure in contemporary Filipino music. As he progresses, fans eagerly anticipate how he will further evolve his sound and influence the genre.

In "No Snitches," Shanti Dope and HELLMERRY not only explore the complexities of street ethics but also exemplify the power of collaboration in producing music that reflects authentic experiences and challenges societal norms. Their combined artistry offers a compelling narrative that is both thought-provoking and resonant, contributing meaningfully to the discourse within the hip-hop community and beyond.