360 (rapper)

360 (rapper)
Name	360
Birth name	Matthew James Colwell
Birth date	12 July 1986
Birth place	Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Genres	Hip hop, rap, pop
Occupation	Rapper, songwriter, record producer
Years active	2001–present
Labels	Soulmate Records, EMI Australia, Forthwrite Records

360 (rapper)

Matthew James Colwell, known professionally as 360, is an Australian hip hop artist, songwriter, and record producer from Melbourne. He gained national prominence through charting albums, high-profile collaborations, and a distinct blend of rap, pop, and electronic elements. His career spans independent releases, mainstream breakthrough, and public controversies that have shaped both his musical output and public image.

Early life and background

Colwell was born in Melbourne and raised in Frankston, Victoria, a suburb within the City of Frankston. He attended local schools and was exposed to contemporary Australian music scenes, including the Melbourne International Arts Festival and local hip hop venues. Early influences included touring acts and domestic artists performing at venues such as the Corner Hotel and festivals like Big Day Out. He began writing lyrics and performing in youth-oriented spaces, connecting with peers from the Australian hip hop community and engaging with independent labels in Victoria.

Musical career

360's recording career began with independent releases and mixtapes circulated in the Australian music scene, leading to a debut studio album on a local imprint. He collaborated with established and emerging artists from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth, and worked with producers tied to labels such as EMI Australia and independent collectives. His breakthrough came with a commercially successful album that produced charting singles on the ARIA Singles Chart and earned placements on triple j rotation. He toured nationally and performed at festivals including Splendour in the Grass, Falls Festival, and regional shows at venues like the Palais Theatre. Collaborators included artists associated with Hilltop Hoods, Illy, Briggs (rapper), and international producers who had worked with major acts. Subsequent albums showcased a shift toward pop-inflected hooks and electronic production, earning radio play on networks such as Nova FM and features in publications including Rolling Stone Australia and The Age.

Artistry and influences

360's style blends elements from global hip hop traditions and contemporary pop production. He cites influences from Australian peers and international figures who shaped modern rap and songwriting. His lyrical themes range from personal struggle and suburban life to addiction and relationships, reflecting narrative techniques similar to those used by artists featured on MTV Australia and programs like Rage (TV program). Production approaches on his records incorporate sampling, synthesizers, and beat-making methods popularized by producers linked to Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Australian producers who contributed to the rise of Oz hip hop. His live performances emphasize crowd engagement and theatrical staging, drawing festival audiences across New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland.

Personal life

Colwell's personal life has intersected with his public persona through media coverage in outlets such as The Sydney Morning Herald and Herald Sun. He has spoken in interviews about mental health, recovery, and family relationships, appearing on discussion platforms and radio segments on stations like triple j and ABC Radio Melbourne. He has connections to community initiatives and has participated in charitable events alongside Australian artists and organizations. His residential history includes time spent in Melbourne suburbs and occasional travel tied to touring and recording in cities such as Los Angeles, London, and Auckland.

Controversies and legal issues

Throughout his career, Colwell has faced public controversies that attracted attention from national media including News.com.au and television programs such as A Current Affair. Incidents involved arrests and legal proceedings that were reported in state courts and covered by outlets like The Age and Herald Sun. These episodes prompted public discussion about celebrity behavior, accountability, and rehabilitation within the Australian entertainment industry. Media coverage often referenced interactions with law enforcement agencies and court appearances in jurisdictions across Victoria.

Awards and recognition

Colwell's commercial success resulted in nominations and awards within Australian music institutions. He received recognition from the ARIA Music Awards and was featured in year-end lists by radio networks such as triple j. His singles achieved certifications from the Australian Recording Industry Association and placements on the ARIA Albums Chart. Festival billing and industry acknowledgments placed him among influential figures in contemporary Australian hip hop alongside acts like Hilltop Hoods, Bliss n Eso, and The Kid Laroi.

Category:Australian rappers Category:Musicians from Melbourne