Paul Christopher Marquardt Jr, known by his stage name 5i, is an artist who blends multiple genres, creating a unique and multicultural sound that resonates with listeners. Raised in Albany, NY, 5i grew up immersed in music, with his mother writing poetry and his father and uncle spinning tracks as DJs. His love for hip-hop was instilled at a young age, and he always saw himself performing for large crowds.
Before rebranding as 5i, he went by the name “Zuni” and achieved several milestones in his career. He performed at prestigious events like BLACKFEST, Capital Expo, and opened for renowned artists, even embarking on an East Coast mini-tour. One of his most memorable moments was performing in front of 6,000+ people at The Egg in his hometown for “So You Think You Got Talent.”
5i’s sound is eclectic and constantly evolving, embracing a variety of influences and genres. His music is deeply personal, with lyrics that speak to his experiences and struggles, reaching listeners who can relate to his journey. For 5i, it’s not just about making music; it’s about creating a spiritual connection through his art.
Though he often works independently, 5i values collaboration and keeps the door open for artists who align with his vision. He’s had a few close friends with talents in the industry, and he’s always ready to create music with the right people.
One of his proudest accomplishments is achieving a Blue Checkmark on Spotify and releasing his debut single “No Hook,” a major milestone that marked a new chapter in his career. Motivated by the love and support from his family and fans, 5i continues to push forward, learning from past challenges and staying true to his craft.
Currently, he’s working on several projects, including the highly anticipated album The Point is 5imple, which will feature the song “No Hook.”
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