Artist description 4-11 is a hip-hop group/band, whose music is based on invoking critical thought. 411's vision consists of producing an array of innovative beats, which vary from dance/party tracks, which are thriving in today's market, to hardcore/underground tracks, that punctuate their lyrical messages. 4-11 combines stimulating tracks with a variety of lyrical offerings. 4-11's music will undoubtedly produce hits attractive to the core market between the ages of 12 to 25, however, by addressing topics such as; the information age, biotechnology, religion, and philosophy, 4-11 attempts to corner the ears of the over 25 market as well. 4-11's lyrical content is made to entertain, as well as reach and teach the youth of America. Remarkably, all composing, writing, arranging, and producing are done internally with no outside sources.

Music Style variety of lyrical offerings

Musical Influences The Hip Hop Culture

Similar Artists Nas, Black Star, Roots, Common, Wyclef, Method Man

Artist History "Conception." 4-11 initially formed in 1996 at the University of Minnesota, Morris in Morris, MN. The two members, Ravi Norman and Simon Shannon joined forces after a series of freestyle sessions in the on-campus apartments (L-6). After graduating from the U of MN, Morris, 4-11 relocated to Minneapolis, MN. 4-11 is currently currently handling their own production, promotion, managing. "History of Live performances." 4-11 has performed locally at many spots in the Minneapolis area. These locations include popular the hip-hop spot, known as the "Red Sea," independent parties which hosted dj's from the local radio station 89.9 KMOJ, and has also made several appearances on local television networks. 4-11 has also been invited to perform at several University of Minnesota campus events (Twin Cites and Morris campuses). Those interested in seeing 4-11 perform should e-mail samuari75@hotmail.com. "Album Release Dates." 4-11's current album, "word of mouth..." was released in June 1999. "word of mouth" contains 18 hard hitting tracks. "Come and Get It" and "Days of Our Lives" provide examples of songs made to make people dance and party. "Come and Get It" depicts two MCs on a mission to accomplish our musical goals in good economic times. "Days of Our Lives" is a cut portraying two young men reminiscing on their upbringing in Florida and New Jersey, respectively. Our title track, "Digital Warfare," attempts to address the perils of existing in a system where everything is becoming automated. While "Rude Awakening," is geared towards stressing the importance of understanding one's self. Once an individual understands the self, understanding the conditions around you becomes less complicated. 4-11’s second album, titled "L.I.F.E." (Learn Information Forever Evolve), will be released in January 2000. It includes the hit singles "Dirty Cats," "Watch That Sh*t Called Love," "Give It Up," and the title track "L.I.F.E." Guest appearances include Dinah from C'Qual, Lyrical Assassin of Dropping Shit Productions, Lawless, and the Young Guru. This album will definitely make the "Classics" list in hip-hop history if placed in the appropriate hands. "Long Range Goals." 4-11 has their own independent label and Production company "LID Productions." Aside from themselves, the label includes the R&B trio C'Qual, and reggae influenced hip-hop artist Lawless. Other coalitions have been made with the south to collaborate with the Lyrical Assassin and Napalm of Droppin Sh*t Productions, The "Southern Legends," which includes LA, Teflon, the Rugged Rebel, and US, and the "Original Young Guns" which include 9-mil, Excaliba and Teflon.

Group Members The individuals that make up 4-11 are "Double S" and "Mic Molest a.k.a Ya HIGHNESS." Double S, 23, was born to the world as Simon Shannon. Simon was born and raised in the "Gatorlands" of Jacksonville, Florida. He is currently completing his Ph.D. in the field of chemistry at the University of Minnesota. "We want our music to still have an altruistic feeling to it, that provides an outlet to the stress of everyday life," says Double S "However, at the same time we want to aid in preparing the youth for the realities of the future."Mic Molest, 24, was born to the world as Ravi Norman. Born in Silver Springs, MD, the Norman family quickly moved to Trenton, New Jersey. After a series of life changing events, Ravi recently graduated from the University of Minnesota, Morris with a B.A. in both economics and management. He is currently employed as a commercial banker with Norwest Bank (now Wells Fargo) in Minneapolis, MN. "Both Simon and I believe that education and building a variety of skills is integral to the survival of the young black male." Says Ravi, "We both enjoy our current professions and are definitely incurring risks to pursue our musical dreams, but you only live once! ENOUGH SAID!"

Instruments Korg TR Rack, Yamaha PSR 520, Boss DR-5 and Dr. Sample

Albums word of mouth... (released June 1999), L.I.F.E. (January 2000)

Press Reviews none

Location Minneapolis, MN - USA

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