The Rotterdam rap scene has produced many talents over the years, but no artist has left a lasting impression like ‘rapper Feis’. Born on 25 January 1986, Faisal Mssyeh grew to become one of the most respected voices in Dutch hip-hop. His raw lyrics, powerful message and undeniable talent made him an icon. Yet his promising career ended tragically early.
The rise of rapper Feis
Feis grew up in Rotterdam-Zuid, a neighbourhood that often inspired his music. His lyrics reflected the reality of life in the city, full of challenges and hopes. He began his career in the rap collective ‘Ecktuh Ecktuh‘, which played a crucial role in building Rotterdam’s hip-hop culture.
His big break came in 2007, when he made an impressive contribution to U-Niq’s song ‘Klein, Klein Jongetje‘. His unique voice, smooth flow and sharp lyrics quickly endeared him to fans and fellow artists alike.
Hard on the outside, broken on the inside
In 2014, ‘rapper Feis’ released his first and only album, ‘Hard on the outside, broken on the inside‘. This masterpiece dealt with themes such as growing up in a harsh environment, the reality of street life and the strength to keep going despite everything. With songs like ‘Superhero‘ and ‘Life of the rotjochies’, Feis managed to touch not only Rotterdam, but the whole of the Netherlands.
His music was known for its raw honesty and emotional depth. Feis told stories that were relatable to his community, but also inspired listeners outside the city. His lyrics were a balance between the harsh reality of life and hope for a better future.
A tragic loss
The life of ‘rapper Feis’ came to an abrupt and tragic end on 1 January 2019. During a shooting on Rotterdam’s Nieuwe Binnenweg in the early hours of New Year’s Day, Feis lost his life at the age of 32. His brother was injured in the same incident. The news shocked not only Rotterdam, but the whole of the Netherlands.
Fans, friends and fellow artists mourned his loss. Figures from the hip-hop scene, such as Winne and Broederliefde, paid emotional tributes to his legacy. The impact of Feis’ death was huge, and his music remained an inspiration.
In 2020, the perpetrator of the shooting was sentenced to 20 years in prison and tbs. While this sentence brought some form of justice, it could not take away Feis’ loss to his family, friends and fans.
The legacy of rapper Feis
Rapper Feis remains one of the most influential artists in Dutch hip-hop history. His music and message live on in the hearts of his fans. Although his career was too short, Feis left a lasting impression with his unique voice, powerful stories and raw reality.
Want to know more about Rotterdam and its rich stories? Discover the city for yourself with the SmartWalk Rotterdam, a self-guided tour that lets you explore the city’s extraordinary history and culture. The name ‘rapper Feis’ will always be synonymous with talent, passion and the soul of Rotterdam hip-hop.
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