Mohammed Ismail Sherif Kwaku Frimpong (born 9 January 2002) professionally known as Black Sherif, is a Ghanaian singer and rapper. He gained popularity in 2021 with his song "First Sermon" in May 2021. This was followed up with "Second Sermon" in July. His breakthrough came in with his March 2022 single " Kwaku the Traveller", which reached number 1 on the Ghanaian and Nigerian Apple Music charts. He released his debut album, '' The Villain I Never Was'', on October 5, 2022.

Early life and education

Black Sherif was born and raised in Konongo-Zongo in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. As both his parents stayed overseas, Black Sherif lived with his aunt and other extended family members at the age of 10. His nomadic lifestyle exposed him to multiple influences and different cultures at a very early age. He attended his basic education at Konongo Zongo Islamic Basic School, and completed his secondary education at

Kumasi Academy Kumasi Academy also known as ''KUMACA'' is a public, senior high school located in Asokore-Mampong, in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Asokore-Mampong is the capital of the Asokore Mampong Municipal Assembly and about from the central business dis ...

, where he picked up an interest in music and dancing. He is a former student of University of Professional Studies (UPSA) and is currently studying at the University of Ghana.

Career

Black Sherif began his career in 2019 with the release of his song "Cry For Me" on YouTube. His debut single "Money" released on May 25, 2020, with a music video. In May 2021, his single "First Sermon" released, further increasing his audience. The song's sequel, "Second Sermon" was released in July, and received a remix with fellow African artist Burna Boy. His breakthrough came in March 2022 with his single "Kwaku The Traveller" which reached number 1 on the Ghanaian and Nigerian Apple Music charts and became his largest song. He released his debut album '' The Villain I Never Was'' in October, supported by the singles "45" and "Soja". Black Sherif performed at the 25th anniversary of the Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards which took place at the OVO Arena in Wembley, UK. In December 2022, Black Sherif hosted his debut concert, the "Mozama Disco Concert" in Accra. On February 2023, Black Sherif won the Best Hip Hop award at the Soundcity MVP Awards which were held at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos.

Artistry

Black Sherif's music is a blend of highlife, reggae, and hip-hop, specifically UK drill. He has stated his musical influences are rappers Kanye West, Travis Scott, Saint Jhn, Dave,

Stormzy Michael Ebenezer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr. (born 26 July 1993), known professionally as Stormzy, is a British rapper, singer and songwriter. In 2014, he gained attention on the UK underground music scene through his ''Wicked Skengman'' series of f ...

, J Hus, and Ghanaian artists Mugeez and Sarkodie.

Controversies

On 11 April 2022, a lawsuit was filed against Black Sherif for alleged breach of contract after Sherif signed a deal with Empire Shadrach Agyei Owusu, the CEO of Waynes Chavis Consult, was seeking the court to restrict Black Sherif from performing at events without his authorization. Fortunately for Black Sherif, the Accra High Court (Commercial Division) dismissed the injunction filed against him which sought to prevent the singer from performing music he released under his old management.

Discography

Albums * '' The Villain I Never Was'' (2022)

Awards and nominations

References

External links

Official Instagram Profile

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{{Commons Ghanaian rappers Living people 2002 births Kumasi Academy alumni