Inspired by the classic literature and poetry of his homeland, DJ/producer Frederik Hahn, aka Torch, is seen as one of the pioneering figures of the German hip-hop scene. Born in Heidelberg in 1971 to a Haitian mother and German father, he started his career as a dance and graffiti artist before forming the socio-politically conscious rap collective Advanced Chemistry with the likes of Toni-L and DJ Mike MD in the mid-'80s. After co-founding the influential record company MZEE, hosting a freestyle show on VIVA, and setting up his own label, 360° Records, he released his only solo album, Blauer Samt in 2000. He has continued to remain a presence on the hip-hop circuit, hosting various international rap-battle events, working with the likes of Jurassic 5 and Afrika Bambaataa, and setting up a fund for the Haiti earthquake. ~ Jon O'Brien