Chris Shreve is a NC based MC/producer & founder of the hip-hop collective Free The Optimus. His brainchild–FTO–became an award winning blog era success, earning their following & relevance through an unrelenting tour & release schedule, largely driven by Shreve’s vision.
The Professor moniker references his 12 years as a university professor teaching biostatistics. He defines Free The Optimus as “a call to action—to set free our optimal ability & our optimistic perspective & to transform the world around us.”
From the writers at Earmilk: “C.Shreve’s lyrical prowess is undeniable. FTO is known for bringing positive & poetic lyrics that flow over jazz influenced hip hop beats that bring in a hint of soul. Their lyrical talent goes above & beyond what is expected in rap music these days.” Since 2009, FTO has helped to define Carolina music & continues to set the bar for hip hop in the live space.
Shreve has toured & shared stages with The Pharcyde, Big Boi, CL Smooth, The Hieroglyphics, Lupe Fiasco, Raekwon, Onyx, Gift of Gab, Cannibal Ox, Camp Lo, Nappy Roots, Talib Kweli, Oddisee, Guilty Simpson, Planet Asia, Tanya Morgan, Chubb Rock, Slum Village, Zion I, Marley Marl et al. He’s performed at Hopscotch, Blue Plum, LAAF, Beats & Bars, Boone in Blossom, Drink Durham, Brooklyn Wildlife, GURP Fest, Shrimp N Grits & AVL Fest.
His work has been featured on Shade45, Hip HopDX, Earmilk, Revolt TV, I Still Love HER, INDYweek, & has been spun by both DJ Premier & Chuck D.
