Biography
Who is Black Sherif?
Early life and education
Mohammed Ismail Sherif was born in Konongo-Zongo within the Ashanti Region of Ghana. His parents worked abroad for much of his childhood, leading him to live with an aunt and other relatives starting at age 10. This period of moving between family members exposed him to many different cultures and influences early on.
He attended Konongo Zongo Islamic Basic School and the Pinamang Educational Complex for his junior high years. For his secondary studies, he went to Kumasi Academy where he joined the student representative council's Literary Group. This involvement helped him develop an interest in dancing and music. Black Sherif later studied at the University of Professional Studies and the University of Ghana.
Music career and hits
The musical path of Black Sherif began in 2019 with the YouTube release of Cry for Me. He followed this with Mariana in November 2019 and the single Money in May 2020. By May 2021, he released First Sermon, which helped grow his audience. He later released a sequel called Second Sermon in July 2021, which included a remix with Burna Boy.
His major breakthrough occurred in March 2022 with the single Kwaku the Traveller. This track reached the top of the Apple Music charts in both Nigeria and Ghana. He released his first album, The Villain I Never Was, in October 2022. His second studio album, titled Iron Boy, arrived on 3 April 2025. In May 2025, he received a nomination for the BET Awards.
Style and performances
His musical style combines elements of pop rap, Afrobeats, drill, and highlife. Many of his lyrics are written in Twi, which is his native Akan dialect. He has cited influences such as Kanye West, Travis Scott, and Stormzy. Black Sherif also works as a fashion model and has a partnership with the sportswear brand ellesse.
He has performed at several major international events, including the MOBO Awards in London and the Wireless Festival. In 2023, he won Best Hip Hop at the Soundcity MVP Awards in Lagos. He has also held concerts in New York City and hosted his own annual Zaama Disco Concert in Accra since 2022. In 2026, he appeared on the track Amazing Grace by Davido.
Legal matters
In April 2022, Shadrach Agyei Owusu filed a lawsuit against the artist for breach of contract. The CEO of Waynes Chavis Consult alleged that a distribution deal with Empire violated a previous management agreement from August 2021. The claimant sought to stop him from performing without authorization. This legal case was brought before the Accra High Court Commercial Division.
Birthday and age
Black Sherif was born on January 9, 2002, which makes Black 24 years old today. That birthday falls under the Capricorn sign. Black shares the date with 67 other famous people.
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