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Hip Hop group “985” is a proudly South African trio consisting of three members from the dusty streets of Diepkloof, Soweto. The group was formed in late 2005 when members Gimboss, Junya Skillz and Dru joined forces to form the super-group 985. The name 985 originates directly from the area code of their hometown in Diepkloof - Soweto, representing the love, pride and respect they share for their hometown. The early impact of 985 can be seen in their contribution in pioneering the popular hip hop “Slaghuis” movement, which continues to be a massive launching platform for up and coming musicians going professional; artist including Pitchblack Afro, F-Eezy, Zulu Mobb and Prokid all hail from this platform.
985 raised the hip hop bar with their Dome produced smash hit "Utlwa" and quickly became a highly respected household name. The high rotation of “Utlwa” on radio stations nationwide and their youth popularity led to their initial signing with major recording label Gallo Records. With the success of their first album, 985 went on to build their brand in the commercial music sector performing alongside major artists such the world renowned Black Eyed Peas. The group went on to perform at the YFM 9th Birthday, the successful Metro FM Heat Wave Tour, the spectacular MTV Motorola Music Alert and the Coca-Cola Cup to name a few. Throughout December 2009, 985 toured across the country with Metro FM and the CHEVY CAR TOUR.
Having signed to Unreleased Records in June 2009, the label proudly announced the official signing of the group for full production, marketing and distribution of the group’s brand new album. As one of the few premier hip hop labels in Africa, Unreleased Records was a perfect fit for the group’s next step in their fast moving career.
The brand new 985 album titled “Re-Dial 985” includes music production from some of the best producers in the industry, including Dome, Ishmael (from the MTV Africa Music Award winning group - Jozi), CJ, N1 to name a few. The recording artists’ features include Ishmael, Psyfo, Tee Pee, Kage, Paul Kekana and more. The album release date is set for 1st March 2010 and continues to be one of the most anticipated albums of the year.
Achievements To Date:
- Performed alongside world renowned platinum selling recording Black Eyed Peas
- Performed at MTV Motorola Music Alert to over 10,000 fans broadcast on MTVBase
- Live performance at the Metro FM Heat Wave Tour
- Performed at the Coca-Cola Cup 2007
- Featured on Pro-Kid’s “Snakes and Ladders” album
- 2009 December National Chevy Motors/Metro FM Concert Tour to over 7, 500 people
- Featured on the YFM Kasi Tour through Medunsa and Thokoza areas
- Performed at the Summer Splash event sponsored by TS Records and MTVBase
- Performed at the VW Party in Pimville December 2009
- Organized and performed at the 985 Area Code Party sponsored by Smirnoff and featuring Deep Level, Jub Jub, Young Nations, F-eezy, Mr. Selwyn and others.
- Featured with gold selling artist and television personality Jub Jub and Psyfo
The 1st Official single from 985’s new Re-Dial 985 album, “Shapa”, has been well received and is currently charted on over 7 National Stations.
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