Kartellen

Kartellen is a Swedish hip hop group known for its hard-edged gangsta rap and social commentary, formed in Stockholm in the late 2000s. The group consists of multiple members who collaborated on studio releases and live performances, and they became one of the prominent acts in Swedish street rap.

The group's musical style blends aggressive delivery with storytelling about urban life, crime, poverty, and friction with authorities, often addressing issues of integration, policing, and the experiences of marginalized communities. Their sound draws on traditional hip hop and contemporary Swedish rap, and their lyrics are characterized by direct, uncompromising language.

Kartellen released several albums and singles on independent labels and via online platforms, building a dedicated fan base through tours and digital exposure. Their work helped catalyze a broader discussion within Sweden about youth crime, violence, and the representation of street life in music, contributing to the development of Swedish rap's more confrontational subgenres.

Controversies and reception: Kartellen's lyrics and image generated public debate about violence, crime glamorization, and freedom of expression. Some members were subjects of legal action, and media coverage ranged from critical to supportive, reflecting broader societal tensions around crime, policy, and cultural expression. The group remains a reference point in discussions of Swedish rap's realism and its cultural impact.

Legacy: They are regarded as a significant contributor to the evolution of Swedish hip hop, influencing younger artists and contributing to the genre's diversification in the 2010s.