Rappers live and die by their authenticity—and none would call Geolier’s into question. Raised in one of Naples’ toughest neighbourhoods, the rapper (aka Emanuele Palumbo) was already on his way to renown by the age of 12: writing his first song, freestyling at school and competing in amateur contests. By 18 he’d dropped a debut single—“P Secondigliano”, repping his home turf—and adopted a moniker whose wordplay reflects a powerful sense of loyalty to his people. Brutally honest lyricism, silky flow and inventive beat selection continue to mark Geolier as one of Italian rap’s premier talents.