Since the 2023 BET Awards nomination was announced, a multitude of individuals have been pondering and expressing curiosity as to the reasons behind the exclusion of Black Sherif from the prestigious event, particularly in relation to the “Best New International Act” category.
Black Sherif has been tipped to earn a nomination at this year’s BET awards due to his massive achievements during the year under review.
However, Camidoh, an artiste who equally rose to the standard has been nominated.
The Sugarcane crooner was the only Ghanaian nominated for the Best International Act category and many wondered why Black Sherif wasn’t a part of it.
Touching on the development, Camidoh’s manager, George Britton, in an interview with Cape CoastFM said, “Of course, Black Sherif won the Artiste of the Year at the 2023 VGMA and usually if you win such an award then you get the BET Awards nomination.
“But for sometime now, it doesn’t happen like it used to be some years ago so things have changed a bit in that regard,” he added in an interview MyNewsGh.com sighted.
“They now look at what you are also doing in their space, I mean internationally what is your song doing. So that’s some of the things they consider and that’s how come they considered Camidoh for nomination instead of Black Sherif,” he justified on the show.
“They realized sugarcane was huge in Europe, Asia, and everywhere they go so that’s the reason why we got recognized by such a prestigious organization”.
Artiste of the year the just-ended VGMA23, Black Sherif, has delved into the prevailing economic and political difficulties encountered by Ghanaians, particularly the youth, in recent times.
During an interview with OkayAfrica, he expressed his concern about the hardships endured by Ghanaians, emphasizing the economic struggles caused by the rising inflation.
He also highlighted how the increase in prices of goods and services have made it difficult for people to afford basic life necessities such as food, fuel and so on.
“There’s so much hardship going on in Ghana, economically, and politically. People are suffering from inflation. They can’t afford petrol or food,” he stated.
However, in the of the economic woes, Blacko said netizens usually console themselves by participating in the country’s vibrant nightlife.
He observed, “But then when the sun sets, everyone comes out in a crowd like, ‘yeah, man, we’re outsiddee!’ So, it’s like there are so many complaints, but from night to dawn we are in the moment.”
According to Black Sherif, he has since faced countless struggles but in spite of everything, he chooses to remain resilient and inspire fans with his experiences.
“I kind of talk for a frustrated figure in the city, a frustrated boy. I’m not from the city, but I live in the city. I came to chase life and dream there. From love to entertainment to survival. Driving out there, I’m testing my limits,” he added.
He also touched on some of his self-taught skills, such as skating and mastering BMX freestyle within a short period.
“I learned how to skate in 30 minutes. I taught myself BMX freestyle in an hour. I feel like nothing is impossible in this world,” he said.
On May 27, 2023, Black Sherif, the talented Ghanaian musician, delivered an exceptional performance at Afronation in Miami, leaving the audience captivated and enthralled.
Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy extended a special invitation to Black Sherif, resulting in a mesmerizing collaboration that left the crowd in sheer amazement.
In an interview following the show, Black Sherif expressed his admiration for the city of Miami, likening its attractiveness to that of a video game.
He marveled at the towering buildings, which he had previously only encountered in virtual games.
Black Sherif further conveyed his genuine excitement about the experience, emphasizing the warm reception he received from the audience.
“It feels so real, and I have been telling everyone that even the city feels like a video game because it is only in video games that I see taller buildings like this. It’s crazy… and the people here and the energy here is mad… you know, like getting on stage and getting people to sing back to you… I love it, and I’m so grateful every hour,”Black Sherif shared in the interview.
Afronation Miami has become a highly anticipated event for African musicians to showcase their talents to a diverse audience. Black Sherif’s inclusion in the lineup was met with great enthusiasm, and he and Burna Boy took full control of the stage, commanding attention from the very first note to the final beat.
Afro Nation Miami was the setting for a truly remarkable occasion when two mighty forces in African music, Black Sherif and Burna Boy, joined forces on the stage to deliver a truly unforgettable performance of their collaborative masterpiece, the ‘Second Sermon’ remix. This electrifying moment left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all those fortunate enough to witness it.
The event drew music enthusiasts from all corners of the globe, treating them to an electrifying showcase of talent and exuberance.
Black Sherif captured hearts with his original track ‘Second Sermon,’ which swiftly became a youth anthem.
By teaming up with Nigerian superstar Burna Boy for the remix, the song soared to new heights, generating a buzz that reverberated far beyond the African continent.
As the pulsating rhythm of ‘Second Sermon’ permeated the air, the crowd erupted in euphoria.
Black Sherif’s commanding presence on stage, combined with Burna Boy’s dynamic energy, engendered a magnetic atmosphere that had everyone on their feet.
These artists effortlessly seized the stage, radiating confidence and a shared dedication to their craft.
This performance served as a testament to the burgeoning influence of African music on the global stage. It underscored the potency of collaboration and the ability of artists to transcend boundaries, forging connections with audiences worldwide.
Entertainment commentator Sally Mann-Frimpong has offered her perspective on Sarkodie and Black Sherif’s audience appeal at the 24th VGMAs.
During an interview with Caleb Nii Boye, she praised Sarkodie for his crowd engagement and control, while also acknowledging Black Sherif as a true performer.
Comparing the two artistes, Frimpong highlighted the contrasting styles and declared Black Sherif as the superior performer between them.
“When you compare the energy of both artistes, I’m referring to Blacko and Sarkodie, Blacko is a true performer,” she indicated.
While acknowledging that Sarkodie may not be considered a phenomenal performer in the conventional sense, she emphasized his remarkable talent for captivating crowds and earning their admiration.
“In my view, Sarkodie isn’t an extraordinary performer per se, but he knows how to sway the crowd. That’s the distinction. He knows how to command the crowd. I believe he possesses an aura that compels people to stand up when they see him,” she said.
In a light-hearted manner, Frimpong humorously questioned whether Sarkodie possessed some sort of mystical power, or ‘juju’ that compelled everyone to rise and acknowledge his presence.
“Sark is so decorated, look at me, He enters, and everyone wants to stand up. I don’t know if it’s magic or whatever, but everyone stands up, the landlord is here,” she humorously proposed.
She added that Sarkodie’s command of the audience says a lot about his star power and impact.
“He may not be considered a top-notch performer, but he has the ability to move the crowd and earn respect for himself,” she added.
Following Black Sherif’s recent performance, during which a “Baphomet” symbol was projected onto the stage has left fans in a state of shock.
Black Sherif was busy singing and interacting with his fans while performing on stage in front of hundreds of cheering crowds at the Palladium Theatre in New York City. In the background, a fiery image of “Baphomet” was being projected.
The symbol was projected for about a while and this was spotted in excerpts of the video making rounds on social media.
This has since sparked discussions online as the conversation has now shifted from holding a ‘successful show’ to projecting an Illuminati symbol on stage.
While some netizens have expressed disappointment, others have stated that perhaps, he wasn’t privy to the development.
What is a Baphomet?
Baphomet is a deity allegedly worshipped by a popular secret society called the ‘Knights Templar’ that subsequently became incorporated into various occult and Western esoteric traditions.
The name Baphomet appeared in trial transcripts for the Inquisition of the Knights Templar starting in 1307.
The Baphomet and its association with satanism
While satanism may eschew holy sites and other tenets that are sacred to most religions, it places a high value on symbolism and art. The Satanic Temple has used symbols of Satan and art to draw attention in recent times.
For years, it petitioned to have a massive Baphomet statue, a goat-headed symbol of Satan, as its lead symbol.
Def Jam Records signee, Stonebwoy has indicated that he will definitely hit the studio with reigning artiste of the year, Black Sherif (Blacko) to produce a banger.
He made this remark while debunking rumours that there is a rift between the two, since Stonebwoy did not feature Blacko on his 5th Dimension album.
Explaining why he didn’t collaborate with the 2023 VGMA Artiste of the Year, Black Sherif, on his 5th Dimension album in an interview with Amansan Krakye on Property FM in Cape Coast, the ‘Therapy’ hitmaker said there is no outstanding issue between the two.
“If you say that why didn’t I feature Black Sherif on my 5th Dimension album it might seem that there’s an issue between us but there are no issues at all.There are a lot more musicians in Ghana that I haven’t done songs with and there are names you can mention but there’s no problem between us,” he added.
“If we haven’t done a song yet it doesn’t mean there’s any wahala but it will definitely happen. We shouldn’t take it like it’s something that should have happened already and because it hasn’t happened so there’s something no we shouldn’t read meanings into it,” he stated.
Speaking further, Stonebwoy said there is still more time ahead to make magic with the ‘Kweku the Traveller’ hitmaker.
“By God’s grace, we have a lot of years ahead of us and we pray that better must come so we look forward to doing a collabo with Black Sherif and many other artistes as well,” he opined.
Black Sherif has urged Ghanaians to refrain from making unnecessary comparisons between him and his senior colleague, Sarkodie.
He made this comment while reacting to claims that Sarkodie’s Jamz album wouldn’t have attained a successful feat without his famous ‘Country Side’ collaboration with the rapper.
‘Country Side’, one of the singles off Sarkodie’s ‘Jamz’ album, has been touted as its only successful track.
It has been tagged as the most popular song on the album, considering the traction it has since received from fans and Black Sherif’s influence.
But reacting to such claims during a discussion on United Showbiz, Black Sherif said,
“If I had not been on the album, it still would have been what it is supposed to be. Albums and music are spiritual. I don’t know his destiny. If I were not on the album, it would have still taken the path it was supposed to take.
“Sarkodie was doing these years before me, who am I to tell him that his album wouldn’t have been big without me? I have been doing music for only four years, subtract it from the number of years he has been doing music and see what he has been able to do. It doesn’t make sense,” he stated.
He, however, bemoaned the current trend of creating unhealthy competition, and enmity between artistes on social media just for trends.
“People sit on the internet, buy data and pursue a certain agenda just for trends. That’s what is done these days. In the real world, there is love between us. Lots of love. But some people on social media chose to put enmity between us and it’s really bad.”
Scores of celebrities have since commended him for what they described as a mature and wise way of addressing the issue.
The 23VGMA artiste of the year Black Sherif has revealed that his father edits some of his songs when he is about to release them.
In an interview on the United Showbiz on UTV, Black Sherif said that he has a healthy relationship with his parents, who have supported him since the beginning of his music career and allowed him to showcase his talent to the world.
The Kweku The Traveler hitmaker said that he was motivated by his parents who stirred a passion for music as they used to play songs from some Ghanaian music legends.
Black Sherif added that his father would tell him that a line in his song could be slightly changed and tweaked to improve its meaning and give it a better lyrical punch. Blacko said that he would often do just that.
“I send some of my tracks to my parents to listen to it. My father is musically good, he would listen to my song and say that this line could be better if tweaked in this direction or done this other way. They have always believed in me and folded their arms to watch me prove myself. Nobody stopped me” he said.
About Black Sherif
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 later at Pinamang Educational Complex, where he graduated junior high school (J.H.S). He then later completed his secondary education at Kumasi Academy, where he picked up an interest in music and dancing.
He is a former student of the 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” was released on May 25, 2020, along with a music video. In May 2021, his single “First Sermon” was 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 most popular 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 20 February 2023, Black Sherif won the Best Hip Hop award at the Soundcity MVP Awards, which were held at the Eko Convention Center 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 John, Dave, Stormzy, 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.
Artiste of the Year at theVodafone Ghana Music Awards(VGMAs), Black Sherif, has responded to suggestions that Sarkodie’s “Jamz” album would not have gained its current popularity without his contribution.
Black Sherif’s collaboration with Sarkodie on the track “Country Side” quickly became the most sought-after song on the “Jamz” album, leading some fans to believe that his contribution played a significant role in shaping the album’s overall appeal.
However, Black Sherif in an interview with MzGee on United Showbiz took the opportunity to clarify his stance on these claims, emphasizing that the album would have attained its current status with or without his involvement.
“It would have been what it will be. Music is a spiritual thing. From my lens, Albums and singles are babies. I don’t know his destiny. If I wasn’t on it, I don’t know his destiny, so whatever the album would have been, would have been,” he stated during the interview.
Black Sherif further acknowledgedSarkodie’s extensive experience and career longevity, noting that the acclaimed rapper had been making music for years before he entered the picture. He expressed humility by stating that he would not presume to dictate the success or failure of Sarkodie’s album, stating, “Am I the one to come and tell him that without me, his album would go nowhere? We don’t talk like that. I’ve just been here for four years, subtract it from his [Sarkodie’s] years.”
Born Mohammed Ismail Sharrif, Blacko, 21 in an earlier interview on TV3 also explained why he failed to join Sarkodie to perform ‘Countryside’ at the recently held VGMAs.
“I am a big fan of Sarkodie. I wanted to sit and experience him perform,” Black Sherif said
The winner at the just ended Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA), Black Sherif, has responded to netizens who have compared him to Ghana’s most decorative rapper, Sarkodie.
Blacko in a discussion on UTV Showbiz explained that it’s unfair and meaningless for people to come to such a comparison
In his submission, he said whether or not his verse onSarkodie‘s album, still would have broke waves adding that Sarkodie is a brand on its own and has been in the industry for over a decade hence the shallow-minded comparison makes no sense.
“My verse on the Jams album doesn’t change anything, it would’ve still been big without me.
music is spiritual and I didn’t foresee the future of the album, Sarkodie is a big artiste, he has been doing this long ago before me, and he is a veteran but I just started, the comparison is senseless”
The Konongo star swept four plaques at the just-ended VGMA including the prestigious Artiste of the Year award beating stiff competition from Piesie Esther, Stonebwoy, Joe Mettle, Sarkodie, Camidoh, KiDi, and King Promise to win the award.
As a reward for his exceptional performance at the recently completed Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA), Black Sherif, the reigning Artiste of the Year, was delightfully surprised by his management with two brand new cars.
Black Sherif, 21, garnered four prestigious awards during the ceremony, including the highly coveted Artiste of the Year accolade.
His record label, Empire, commemorated his remarkable feat by presenting him with two gleaming cars, a gesture that has garnered immense support and well-wishes for the talented musician.
The video capturing the heartwarming moment has gone viral on social media and has been met with an outpouring of congratulatory messages for Black Sherif.
Black Sherif has been gifted two brand new cars by his management for winning this year’s VGMA ‘Artist of the Year’
In attendance at the event were Bola Ray, CEO of Brasa and Co-Founder Devtraco as well as the founder of A-List Management, Joseph Aidoo Jr, Herman Suede and members of A-List Management.
The artist’s remarkable victory in the VGMA’s Artist of the Year category came after fierce competition from esteemed contenders such as Piesie Esther, Stonebwoy, Joe Mettle, Sarkodie, Camidoh, KiDi, and King Promise.
The recognition and rewards bestowed upon Black Sherif for his exceptional talent and contributions to the music industry reflect not only his personal triumph but also his growing presence on the international stage as he readies to perform in New York City on May 20, 2023
Adane Best, a veteran musician, extends his appreciation to Black Sherif for recognizing his song at the 2023 Ghana Music Awards.
After Blacko was announced as the winner of the Artiste of the Year, he sang Adane Best’s song ‘George’ before delivering his acceptance speech.
The elated young Ghanaian musician sang the song with passion.
In a post sighted by Zionfelix.net, Adane Best thanked Sheirf for such a gesture.
He stated that Sherif’s humility and hard work have brought him where he is today.
The veteran musician is expecting him to keep going—as he wishes him the best.
He wrote: “Hello Black Sherif, I know this journey hasn’t been easy. For sure, you’ve got what it takes to get through it. Your humility and hardwork have brought you to where you are today, I don’t expect anything but the best. Keep on keeping on! Thanks for acknowledging my music. All the best #adanebest #blacksherif.”
Black Sherif may have won the biggest award of the night at the 24th Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA24), but he was not happy about missing out on another coveted prize.
The rapper and singer, who took home the Artiste of the Year trophy, was hoping to also bag the Album of the Year award for his debut LP, The Villain I Never Was. However, he was beaten by King Promise, who won with his sophomore album, 5 Star.
Black Sherif opened up about his disappointment in an interview with Berla Mundi on TV3’s New Day programme. He said he was expecting to hear his name when the winner was announced at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) on Saturday, May 6, 2023.
“When they didn’t mention my name, I said: ‘Yawa!’” he revealed, making a sour face and then laughing it off.
‘Yawa’ is a Pidgin word that can mean various things, such as ‘trouble’, ‘oh my goodness!’, ‘f**k!’, ’embarrassment’ and ‘big disappointment’.
Despite his frustration, Black Sherif was gracious enough to admit that King Promise deserved the award. He also praised the other nominees in the category: Sarkodie (Jamz), Gyakie (My Diary), Kwesi Arthur (Son of Jacob) and Joe Mettle (The Kadosh).
“If I felt like the one receiving the award didn’t deserve it, then I would feel some way,” he said. “But everyone in that category deserved to win else, they wouldn’t have put their name up in the first place.”
He added that all the nominated albums were worthy contenders because “they put work in”.
Black Sherif rose to fame in 2021 with his viral songs “First Sermon” and “Second Sermon” . He is known for his unique blend of rap and singing, and his lyrics that reflect the struggles of the youth.
Nii Ayite Hammond acknowledged the brilliance of “The Villian I Never Was” album by Black Sherif but emphasized that “5 Star” from King Promise passed the litmus test in an interview with Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM’s Twitter Space.
“It is true that ‘The Villain I Never Was’ ticks all the boxes, the same way King Promise’s album also ticks all the boxes. You realise that when you read the category definition, it doesn’t say hit song and quality of recording. It says ‘and/or’. So when you are assessing them, you assess both and you make a choice out of that assessment,” he said.
The VGMA board member added that the dynamics for winning the Album of the Year category have shifted from having the highest number of hit songs to one possessing technical qualities.
He explained, “At a point in time in the music life of the country, we were doing more singles so the albums were kind of suffering. And so people who were coming out with albums and we realized that the definition that we had in the past which was three or more hit songs was becoming a challenge. So, in the wisdom of the Board, we needed to change that definition.”
The Album of the Year of Vodafone Ghana Music is adjudged by the Academy and Board as the most outstanding compilation of an Album that was released during the year under review. It must have generated excitement during the year, the category definition reads.
Newly-crowned 2023 VGMA Artiste of the Year Black Sherif, has revealed that he was expecting to win the Album of the Year.
however, the Album of the Year was won by King Promise’s 5 Star.
In an interview on TV3 he said “Obviously, I was waiting to hear my name, but when my name wasn’t mentioned, I said, ‘Yawa’, ” he revealed.
According to ‘Kwaku The Traveller’ hitmaker, he wasn’t disappointed because every nominee in that category deserved an award.
His album ‘The Villain I Never Was’ competed with the likes of ‘Jamz’ by Sarkodie, ‘My Diary’ by Gyakie, ‘Son of Jacob’ by Kwesi Arthur, ‘Kadosh’ by Joe Mettle and eventual winner ‘5 Star’ by King Promise.
King Promise’s win already spiced up some controversies on social media as most people and fans of Black Sherif were certain it was a win for their camp.
From Best Hip-hop Song of the Year, Best Music Video, Best Hip-life/Hip-hop Artiste, Most Popular Song to the ultimate win of the night, Artiste of the Year, he expressed how happy he was about winning most of the awards he was nominated for.
He disclosed that when the time is right, he will collaborate with other artistes.
A Ghanaian afrobeat artist, Gregory Bortey Newman, also known as King Promise, has revealed that perseverance and hard work garnered him Album of the Year at the 24th Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA).
King Promise’s “5 Star” did the trick for him at the music fiesta held at the Grand Arena, Accra International Conference Center.
Nominees in the category included; Black Sherif (The Villain I Never Was), Sarkodie (Jamz), Gyakie (My Diary), Kwesi Arthur (Son of Jacob), and Joe Mettle’s (The Kadosh).
Speaking to Kwaku Nhyira-Addo on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Monday (8 May), King Promise said: “We made amazing music for the rest of the world and Ghana. We put Ghanaian music on the map, and I’m just glad that we could do that.”
“I just kept pushing and trusting that God will work it out just how it’s supposed to be, and He did just that.
“It takes a lot of hard work, persistence and dedication. I had to sacrifice – times where I could’ve been sleeping like any regular student, I just went harder in the studio. It’s all hard work and persistence,” King Promise said.
Listen to King Promise in the attached audio clip below:
The ultimate prize
Mohammed Ismail Sharrif, better known by his stage name, Black Sherif, won the Artiste of the Year award. Black Sherif beats contenders such as Sarkodie, Camidoh, King Promise and Piesie Esther to win the ultimate prize.
The “Kwaku the Traveller” hitmaker also won the Best Music Video award, Most Popular Song of the Year and Best Hiplife Song of the Year.
His closest rival, Piesie Esther, grabbed two awards – Best Gospel Song with “Wayɛ me yie” and the Best Gospel Artiste of the Year.
Ghanaian singer Black Sherif has reminded his followers of his efforts to the music industry once again.
In a post urging his fans to rally behind him in the upcoming VGMAs, Blacko, who has been nominated for the ultimate category, took to social media to emphasize that his works are evidently stronger to give him the upper hand.
Highlighting his efforts, Black Sherif said Ghanaians have been witnesses to his roller-coaster journey including how he rose from nothing to greatness.
In a Facebook post on May 3, 2023, Blacko said he deserved the most coveted ‘Artiste of the Year’ award because he had given it his all in the industry.
“You’ve seen my blood, sweat & tears. You’ve seen the ups & downs of my journey. I’ve had my lips shut, and my eyes opened ever since I stepped in the game. I don’t plan on changing that, not today, not tomorrow. Let’s go, VGMA,” he stated.
Black Sherif, the youngest nominee among the likes of Stonebwoy, Sarkodie, Camidoh, KiDi, Piesie Esther, Joe Mettle, and King Promise up for the most prestigious award.
He is contesting for eight other categories including the Most Popular Song of the Year, Best Hiphop Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Best Hiplife/Hiphop Artiste of the Year, Best Music Video, Best Reggae/Dancehall Song of the Year and Best Afropop Song of the Year.
From a small mining community in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, a global hitmaker has emerged – none other than Black Sherif. With a unique blend of hip hop, afrobeat, and drill music, this young artiste has captured the hearts and ears of fans worldwide. But who is the man behind the music? In this bio, we’ll take a closer look at his life, career, and achievements, and discover what makes Black Sherif as one of the most promising talents in the Ghanaian music scene.
Life & Education: Black Sherif was born on January 9, 2002, in Konongo-Zongo, a suburb of the Ashanti Region of Ghana. His real name is Mohammed Ismail Sharrif, and he is also known as Blacko or Kwaku Frimpong. He grew up in a large extended family, as both his parents lived abroad. He attended Konongo Odumase Senior High School and later enrolled at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, to study marketing, where he later dropped out, to focus fully on his music career.
Career:
Black Sherif started his musical journey at a young age, inspired by artists like Sarkodie, Kwesi Arthur, and Drake. He began recording songs in his bedroom and uploading them on social media platforms. Black Sherif is a singer and rapper who blends hip hop, afrobeat, and drill music in his songs. He gained popularity in 2021 with his viral songs “First Sermon” and “Second Sermon,” which addressed the struggles and frustrations of the youth in Ghana. He also released his debut album “The Villain I Never Was” in December 2021, which featured songs like “Konongo Zongo”, “45”, and “Toxic Love City”. He is currently signed to EMPIRE, a US-based record label that has worked with artists like Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, and Tyga.
Achievements: The 21-year-old, is one of the most promising and talented artists in the Ghanaian music scene. He has won several awards and nominations, such as the Breakthrough Act of the Year at the 3Music Awards 2022 and the Best New Artiste at the Ghana Music Awards UK 2021. He has also collaborated with other artists like Larry Gaaga, Burna Boy, Malcolm Nuna, and Yaw Tog. He is known for his catchy hooks, witty lyrics, and energetic performances. He aims to inspire and motivate his fans with his music and to represent his culture and community. Black Sherif is one of the most promising and talented artists in the Ghanaian music scene. He has won several awards and nominations, such as the Breakthrough Act of the Year at the 3Music Awards 2022, Best International Flow nomination at the BET Hip Hop Awards 2022, and the Best New Artiste at the Ghana Music Awards UK 2021. He has also collaborated with other artists like Sarkodie, Larry Gaaga, Burna Boy, Malcolm Nuna, and Yaw Tog. He is known for his catchy hooks, witty lyrics, and energetic performances. He aims to inspire and motivate his fans with his music and to represent his culture and community.
Ghana Music Awards USA has become one of the most highly anticipated events in the Ghanaian entertainment calendar.
The annual award show celebrates Ghanaian artists and musicians in Ghana and those based in the diaspora, particularly in the USA.
Organizers of the event have recently announced the nominees for the 2023 edition, and it promises to be a competitive one.
Black Sherif, Stonebwoy, Piesie Esther, Shatta Wale, Sarkodie, Camidoh, and Kidi were nominated in the Artiste of the Year category.
According to the Founder of Ghana Music Awards, USA (GMA-USA), Don D, a lot of preparations have gone into making this year’s event even better than previous years.
Don D stated that the entire production of the event will see a huge and massive revamp, promising an even more memorable experience for attendees for its 4th edition.
The Ghana Music Awards USA has grown significantly since its inception, with each year’s event becoming more star-studded and the competition more intense.
Check out the full list of nominees below
Artiste of the Year
Black Sherrif
Stonebwoy
Piesie Esther
Shatta Wale
Sarkodie
Camidoh
Kidi
Gospel Artiste of the Year
Piesie Esther
Celestine Donkor
Obaapa Christie
Diana Hamilton
Joe Mettle
Sonnie Badu
MOG Music
Highlife Artiste of the Year
Fameye
Wutah Afriyie
Abiana
Kofi Kinaata
Akwaboah
Kuame Eugene
Kwabena Kwabena
Emerging Artiste of the Year
Naana Blu
Vanilla
Rcee
Kwaku Kwame
Kojo Kinn
Esi Bentil
Hiphop/Hiplife Artiste of the Year
Medikal
Strongman
Black Sherif
Amerado
Eno Barony
Sarkodie
Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year
Ras Kuuku
Epixode
Stonebwoy
Samini
Shatta Wale
Afro Beats/Afro Pop Artiste of the Year
Camidoh
Gyakie
Wendy Shay
Kidi
King Promise
Kelvin Boy
Most Popular Song of the Year
Down Flat – Kelvin Boy
Sugarcane Rmx – Camidoh ft. Mayorkun, King Promise & Darkoo
Kwaku the Traveller – Black Sherif
Friday Night – Lasmid
Something – Gyakie
Way3 me yie – Piesie Esther
On God – Shatta Wale
Countryside – Sarkodie ft. Black Sherif
New Artiste of the Year
Fotocopy
Lasmid
DJ Azonto
Malcom Nuna
Abbi Ima
Chief One
Prophet Atara
Efe Keyz
Rapper of the Year
Eno Barony
Lyrical Joe
Amerado
Phrimpong
Strongman
Medikal
USA CATEGORIES
Discovery Artiste of the Year
Ohema Daystar • Pat Love
Juicee
NKA
GhanaStar
Richard Chief
Officer Sammy Young • Mani Mandela
J.B
Obaapa Lizzy
Afropop Artiste of the year
Praise Kusi
Jamin Beats
Myra Kay
K Rocks
Mr. Ampossible • TooWan8
Jay Hover
Male Artiste of the year
Praise Kusi
Jamin Beats
Nii Addo
Mr. Ampossible
TooWan8
Humphrey Tettey • KayBillz
Jay Hover
Female Artiste of the year
Aakosya
Atiaa Tina
Cee Music
Millicent Yankey • Herty Corgie
Mill Addison
Gospel Song of The Year
Oma Ne Nsa So – Mz Nana
Aseda – Melody Frempong
Tumbero bye bye – Rita Adomolga • Lion of Juda – RevGraceMan
Open the Gates – Need Worship • Medimafo – Cee Music
Praise Him – Millicent Yankey
Nsu Mma Me – Paappa Yawson • El Shaddai – Herty Corgie
Fellow Ghanaian Reggae/Dancehall musician, Ras Kuuku has put in a spirited submission for why young music sensation, Black Sherif should win the most coveted award at the upcoming Vodafone Ghana Music Awards
The Artiste of the Year, the ultimate award at the VGMA is awarded to the musician who has made the most significant impact in the music industry over the past year.
Ras Kuuku in an exclusive interview on TV3 New Day was of the view that the “Oil On My Head” singer had a higher chance of snagging the Artiste of the Year but it would be difficult for him to take the Reggae song or Reggae Artiste award because of the stiff competition in the category.
“This time we have worked hard. Everyone knows about ‘3 3 in 1’. This year is not going to anyone who is not a Reggae/Dancehall artiste,” he revealed
RasKuuku who spoke highly of Black Sherif’s success said it was due to his hard work and dedication to his craft.
“Let me tell you Black Sherif is winning the Artiste of the Year because he worked hard but when it comes to the Reggae side we [Ras Kuuku and team] worked harder,” he noted
According to RasKuuku, he was on the verge of winning at least one of the awards he’s been nominated for at the upcoming VGMA for his album “3 3 & 1 (Miensa Miensa Ne Baako)’
“For the genre, it’s Ras Kuuku who did best and you know it. It’s coming back to Puom. If not Reggae Artiste of the Year, Reggae/Dancehall song is coming to Puom”
Check out the Nominee’s list below
Best Reggae/Dancehall Song
Konkarah Jahvybz – A Go Dey (ft Kelvyn Boy) Ras Kuuku – 33in1 Epixode – Atia Black Sherif – Don’t forget me Rocky Dawuni – Never bow down (ft Blvk H3ro) Maccasio – Eyes on you (ft Stonebwoy) Audio Engineer of the Year Chops – Yaa Asantewaa (King Promise) Qube – Beginning Again (Adomaa) Perez Muzik – Hewale Lala (Perez Muzik) Supa Dups – Therapy (Stonebwoy) Possigee – Country Side (Sarkodie) Altra Nova – Far Away (Gyakie)
The time has come for Ghana to invest and pay more attention to the likes of Worlasi, Bogo Blay, Black Sherif, and Gyakie as they have been tipped to be the next big thing for the international music market.
Rapper E.L who provided names of these local artistes bet his last coin on their ability to top international charts with their quality sounds when given maximum support from the industry as well as those that matter when it comes to music promotion.
The 2016 VGMA Artiste of the Year, posited that Ghana has its attention on the wrong musicians, thereby neglecting those he named as the country’s biggest exports.
“We are not giving enough priority and resources to the right people. It is at the wrong side. The people we are paying attention to, I am sorry to say, most of the artistes we are really paying attention to are not going to take Ghana music as far as we want them to.
“I could name names of the artistes who are going to do it. Worlasi, Bogo Blay. These are some artistes who are doing it now and I am happy to see it. Black Sherif, Gyakie, we need more of that because that is what is going to take us there, period!” he disclosed on 3 Music TV as he called and called for full support for his colleagues.
His latest call is for music lovers to pay much attention to the works of Worlasi, Bogo Blay and the tall list of ‘marginalized’ musicians who have not been given their flowers despite their exceptional talent.
“We need to have a shift of the mindset that we want future stuff. We want to transcend. Let’s pay attention to these artistes. These artistes are going to take us there…they are our local brands,” he charged.
Singer-songwriter and rapper Black Sherif has revealed some behind-the-scenes details concerning how he creates his sensational music.
The ‘Soja’ hitmaker was asked how he births songs that sound different every single time.
“You see, where I was born – the kind of community I was born in [Konongo] – the first survival [tactic] you’ll realize is being a rebel,” he said.
He clarified that he was not talking about “pulling a knife and [other] things but rather not going [about things] conventionally.
“So I’ve been a rebel with everything I do [and] with my music.”
On what fuels the vim of the rebel in him, he simply answered: “I have nothing to lose, zero!”
Maintaining the Pidgin English, he added that: “I take risks with everything.”
Here, Blacko revealed that the beats other artistes reject are what he takes to “do my songs.”
“So, I take risks, being a rebel, singing – that’s my thing,” he emphasised.
He shared that he sees “life through my lens” and “past experiences,” and “I write about them.”
“I cannot see it through yours,” he added.
Peeling back more details about his creative process, the famous Ghanaian artiste and fashionista indicated that his songs are “mostly my opinions and debates that are going on in my head.”
“In my songs, I’m a wise person and sometimes I am a corny a** n***a,” the ‘45’ hitmaker explained. “Sometimes, I am vulnerable, sometimes I am something else. I do all that in my songs.”
The reason, he said, was “that’s the only place I feel safe.”
He repeated that his music “most at times” captures his “fantasies, past experiences and bare [a lot of other] things.”
“Last last,” that is, in the final analyses of things, “no one really cares,” Blacko commented in conclusion when his host highlighted his headstrong posture, especially in view of what people may think or say about him and his work.
Nominated 9 times for the 24th edition of the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMAs), including the ultimate Artiste of the Year award, he spoke on the Road to the VGMAs programme with media personality Akosua Hanson and co.
Ghanaian music star Black Sherif has revealed that his music is paying him very well.
Appearing on Accra-based TV3 for a Road to the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMAs) interview, he was asked if the music work is paying off.
“Yes,” he responded without hesitation. “Yes, that’s how we’re able to shoot [my music videos].”
“If you study my videos from back then, they don’t look like the videos [and] the pictures we [shoot now],” he added.
His host mentioned that he and his team used to shoot with a phone.
“Yeah,” Sherif reacted, pointing in the direction of his team member Farouk.
“Farouk has been taking shots and videos of me for the longest time,” he said. “Now though, he has a bad [sophisticated] camera. Yeah, it’s like that.”
According to the ‘Kwaku the Traveller’ hitmaker, whatever competencies his team has “right now, yeah, we learned from scratch.”
The team is made up of risk-takers, he said, “because [we had] zero” and thus “we had nothing to lose.”
“So everything we did, we were trying something,” he added. “And we’ve built up from there.”
Take a look at how the Konongo-born star’s music videos have improved in picture quality since his ‘First Sermon’ hit in 2021.
For the 24th edition of the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMAs), George Mensah Britton has stated his artiste Camidoh‘s only competition when it comes to lifting the ultimate trophy, Artiste of the Year, is Black Sherif.
The music executive was in conversation with Nana Kwesi Asare on Class 91.3 FM’s Saturday afternoon programme ‘The Big Show’, April 1, 2023.
“We’re expecting nothing but success on the night” of the VGMAs, he said.
“For him to be nominated in that [Artiste of the Year] category means it’s a possible win,” he also said.
However, even if the ‘Sugarcane’ hitmaker does not win, Mr Britton sees the nomination as “a big leap.”
He highlighted how the singer-songwriter Camidoh, was “two years ago an underground artiste but has over the period,” worked his way to the top, with “a lot invested in him.”
For the 2023 VGMAs Artiste of the Year category, “If I’ll actually be honest,” he said, “I think the only competition there [for Camidoh] will probably be Black Sherif.”
Apart from the ‘Kwaku the Traveller’ hitmaker, George Britton does not see “anybody like that [in the category]” being trouble for his artiste.
That said, he repeated that: “Everyone there [in the category] deserves to win,” especially since they have “been counted as the top guys in the country within a period…”
The ultimate brag at the VGMAs this year, Camidoh is going up against Black Sherif, Sarkodie, Piesie Esther, Joe Mettle, Stonebwoy, King Promise and the incumbent KiDi.
The Grind Dont Stop and GB Recordz artiste also stands the chance to win 5 other awards come Saturday, May 13, 2023, at the Accra International Conference Centre’s Grand Arena: ‘Vodafone Most Popular Song of the Year’, ‘International Collaboration of the Year’, ‘Best Afrobeats/Afropop Artiste of the Year’, ‘Best Male Vocal Performance of the Year’, and ‘Best Afrobeats Song of the Year’.
Ghanaian musician Black Sherif has broken boundaries, locally and internationally, in the music industry.
Speaking about his magic formula for success, Black Sherif revealed that as a boy with roots in Konogo Zongo, he had survived by standing out of the ordinary.
He described himself as a rebel who had a hunger for success and no fear of failure in an interview with TV3.
Black Sherif’s launch to fame with his Second Sermon song was unusual. The young musician has continued to grow, with many awards from home and abroad under his belt.
In the interview with TV3, Black Sherif spoke about his hometown and its contributions to his successful career.
In the kind of community I was born into, the first survival thing that comes to mind is being a rebel. Not a rebel who pulls out knives, but not going the conventional way.
According to him, he has always taken risks with the mindset that failure is inevitable.
I have nothing to lose. It’s zero. So if I get one and come back, it’s zero. I don’t run into negatives. So I take risks in everything. The beat that you will reject is what I will use for my song. I just keep taking risks and being a rebel with my songs.
The versatile Ghanaian star has been featured on Jamaican star Popcaan’s latest album, a 25-tracker named ‘Great Is He’.
The piece titled ‘Celebrate’ was produced by Ghanaian-British Jae5; the very producer Sherif chalked his ’45’ smash hit with recently.
‘Great is He’ is the fifth Album of the 867 GUD boss with notable features from Drake and Burna Boy among others.
Black Sherif hopped on the second verse of the song preaching his triumph over many tribulations and obstacles while calling on the heavens to safeguard his musical journey.
‘Celebrate’ is a feel-good song that fits many moods. It epitomizes the excellent music production trademark of the Grammy award-winning producer and sound engineer of Ghanaian descent, Jae5 who added his Midas touch to this amazing tune.
Ghanaian music star Black Sherif is hopeful he will win the prestigious Artist of The Year (AoTY) award at the 2023 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.
Following an impressive music year, Kwaku The Traveller hitmaker Mohammed Ismail Sherif Kwaku Frimpong, professionally known as Black Sherif hopes to pick a number of awards at the 2023 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.
The musician who spoke exclusively to NY DJ on BTM Afrika revealed he deserved to win every category he was nominated for considering the work done in the year under review.
Asked which categories he really looked forward to winning, the musician revealed he was expectant of picking the Artist of The Year and Album of The Year awards.
He however revealed he would still be grateful to God should the unexpected happen.
“We are winning every award they nominated us for. If they don’t give it to us Alhamdulillah, if they do Alhamdulillah,” he said.
Black Sherif bagged nine (9) nominations at the 2023 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards. These include Best Afropop Song of the Year (Oil In My Head), Best Music Video (Konongo Zongo), Best Reggae/Dancehall Song of the Year (Don’t Forget Me), Songwriter of the Year (Oh Paradise), Best Album (The Villain I Never Was), Most Popular Song (Kwaku The Traveller), Best HipHop Song (Kwaku The Traveller), Best Hiplife/Hip Hop Artiste and Artist of the Year.
Ghanaian musician, Black Sherif, was spotted among celebrities who accompanied US Vice President, Kamala Harris, on a tour at the Vibrate Space, a community recording studio for young creatives at the Freedom Skatepark in Accra.
The US Vice President who is currently on a 3-day visit to Ghana visited the studio in the company of African American celebrities including; Idris Elba, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Baaba J, Ria Boss, Moses Sumney, and Ghanaian musician,Black Sherif.
In a couple of pictures making rounds on the internet, Kamala Harris was seen interacting with the celebrities as they were taken on a tour around the edifice.
This comes after they embarked on a ‘meet and greet’ with the cast of the popular YOLO TV series, which features the likes of Jackie Appiah, Adjetey Annang and many others.
Kamala Harris’ visit to Ghana precedes a weeklong trip to Africa, as part of concerted efforts to broaden US outreach in some countries on the continent.
US Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday visited Vibrate Studios, a recording studio in Accra, where she interacted with musicians and other creatives.
She engaged Ghanaian rapper, Black Sherif, during her visit with British actor Idris Elba and American actress Sheryl Lee Ralph.
Other artistes present included Amaarae, Mensah, Joey B, Ria Boss, Baaba J and Poetra Asantewa.
In her address, Kamala Harris spoke about the great connection between Ghana and America and appreciated the works produced by Ghanaian creatives.
She acknowledged that the culture and creative industries are influencing the world beyond measure.
Kamala Harris in suit, Sheryl on her right, Black Sherif behind Sheryl and Idris Elba behind Kamala Harris
Meanwhile, the US Vice President has announced that she has created a playlist that features songs by Ghanaian artistes Black Sherif, Amaarae and others on music streaming platform Spotify.
She made the announcement in a tweet after meeting some selected people from the creative industry in Ghana, on Monday, March 27, 2023.
“I am releasing a playlist featuring the artists from my travels across Ghana, Tanzania, and Zambia, including many of the Ghanaian and Ghanaian-American artists I met today like @blacksherif_ and @amaarae,” she wrote.
I am releasing a playlist featuring the artists from my travels across Ghana, Tanzania, and Zambia, including many of the Ghanaian and Ghanaian-American artists I met today like @blacksherif_ and @amaarae.https://t.co/B057ZDcpv8
Ghanaian hip hop musician, Medikal, is rooting for Black Sherif ahead of the 24th Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.
Black Sherif has been nominated for many categories. However, all but one has caught the eye of many, especially Medikal.
Black Sherif is competing against Stonebwoy, Sarkodie, King Promise, Camidoh, Kidi, Piesie Esther and Joe Mettle for the Artiste of the Year award.
According to Medikal born Samuel Adu Frimpong, he wishes the award goes to Black Sherif, whom he says has been phenomenal.
Speaking on Tv3, he said “I saw that he (Black Sherif) has been nominated for artiste of the year. I’d be so happy if he wins.”
“Black Sherif should keep doing his thing. I pray he wins the Artiste of the Year award,” Medikal added.
Lynx Entertainment signer, KiDi won the Artiste of the Year at the 2022 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards. He beat stiff competition from Black Sherif, King Promise, Kuami Eugene, Sarkodie and Joe Mettle to emerge winner.
Gospel singer, Piesie Esther has, for the first time, been nominated by the Ghana Music Awards under the ‘Artiste of the Year’ category where she will be battling it out with the likes of Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, King Promise and four others.
Young rapper, Black Sherif who has recorded huge success in the industry and graced all the big stages is also aiming for the highest title in Ghana’s music industry.
Camidoh, Ghana’s finest singer and ‘Sugarcane’ hitmaker is among the first-timers under this category.
The eight nominees for the 24th VGMA Artiste of the Year are Black Sherif, Stonebwoy, Sarkodie, King Promise, Camidoh, KiDi, Piesie Esther and Joe Mettle.
The reigning VGMA Artiste of the Year, KiDi, from Lynx Entertainment is looking forward to retaining his title, however, he will face stiff competition.
The 24th Vodafone Ghana Music Awards comes off on May 13, 2023.
The full list of the 24 nominees for the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA), the most prestigious music awards ceremony in Ghana, has been released by Charter House.
The numerous categories, according to Charter House, include chosen musicians who have made their names and professions as the public’s favorites.
On March 18, 2023, the award scheme’s organizers posted the list on their various social media channels. On Saturday, May 13, 2023, at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Convention Center, the award ceremony is scheduled to take place.
Akwaboah has argued that Black Sherif’s music is ignorantly called Hiphop or Afrobeats by the music industry.
“I will describe most of the songs Black Sherif does as Highlife,” Akwaboah told the host of Accra-based Joy FM’s morning show, Kojo Yankson.
The ‘Obiaa’ hitmaker explained by adding that: “When you listen to the way he [Black Sherif] sings and everything,” it is evident he is a Highlife artiste, “but he has been pushed to Hiphop.”
Akwaboah opined that should Black Sherif be tagged a Highlife artiste, he could carry the iconic Ghanaian genre on his ascendency.
“So going global, imagine calling what he is doing Highlife, that would have been Highlife on the map,” he projected. “But in a way it appears we are pushing him into hip hop or Afrobeats.”
“So now what is happening is, he is out there but they are calling it Hiphop or Afrobeats,” the award-winning Highlife vocalist and record producer bemoaned.
Black Sherif has categorically stated in interviews that he creates his music from a Highlife perspective. He is also heavily influenced by Reggae. These influences come from music he experienced thanks to his parents when he was a boy.
Meanwhile, Akwaboah’s latest offering is titled ‘Darling’ featuring Kwabena Kwabena who has lately expressed sentiments similar to his on Sherif.
Signed to Wayne Chavis Records, budding singer Cojo Rae has been tipped to be nominated and possibly win the upcoming VGMA 23 Unsung category.
His song, Jah Guide has been trending for the past weeks on various streaming channels especially in Kumasi due to his educational background.
Born as Agyapong Raymond, the talented singer completed Opokuware Senior High School in 2022 with his song blazing in every corner.
‘Jah Guide’, the banger, is a creative blend of drill music, lovers’ rock reggae, and it’s captivating in every sense of the word. However, Jah Guide was produced by Tubhani Musik, the producer known to be churning out dope records for many A-list acts in the country like Strongman.
Meanwhile, Cojo Rae is set to take over the airwaves with his anchored foundation cemented by Black Sherif’s former manager, Shadrach Agyei Owusu, popularly known as Snap Wayne Chavis.
After the scuffle with his former artiste that almost got him exiting the music business, Snap Wayne Chavis aka Snap C has still kept his desires burning against all odds.
Becoming a relentless investor, the building contractor and pharmacist who along the line became a music fanatic says he’s always been keen to keep supporting pure talent.’
With Cojo Rae, climbing up the ladder his umbrella, some artistes who have benefited from the benevolence of Wayne Chavis Records include Awal, Lousika, Amerado and Black Sherif among other ace musicians – he has been the silent investor of many artistes and songs alike in Ghana and beyond.
Interestingly, he became a centre of attraction when he parted ways with his then sensational artiste Black Sherif, who has now become a household name in Ghana, due to a “breach of contract” reason.
Nonetheless, his latest signee Cojo Rae right after high school in 2022 slammed out with, ‘Don’t Need Your Love’ and Jah guide which quickly accumulate over 1.7 million streams on just Boomplay.
With over 11,000 followers on Instagram and 135,000 followers on TikTok, Cojo Rae is projected to be part of the VGMA Unsung Category by many industry players since his music career took off in style.
Ghanaian socialite, Andreas Owusu, popularly known as Efia Odo, has once again sought the attention of Ghanaian musician, Black Sherif.
This was spotted during her reaction to a recent picture Black Sherif shared on Twitter.
The Ghanaian rapper took to Twitter to share a picture of himself with the caption ‘Pink watch joker is not smiling.”
As usual, the post gathered a lot of engagement from fans who liked, shared, and retweeted.
However, Efia Odo, who seems to be a distant admirer of Black Sherif also shared his post but with an interesting caption which read, ‘I got something pink that will make you smile.’
Her statement has got netizens wondering what exactly she was referring to.
Others who think Efia Odo’s comment might be somewhat related to something sexual have asked her to keep off, as they believe the rapper is still very much young.
Black Sherif on the other hand, is yet to respond to her offer.
This isn’t the first time Efia Odo has made subtle advances at Black Sherif on social media.
Earlier in December 2022, the actress reacted to a viral photo of the rapper in which he was said to have had an erection.
“What’s that in his pocket”? Efia Odo wrote beneath the picture where Black Sherif’s alleged ‘boner’ was spotted.
For many musicians in Ghana, it is always a dream to have their songs cross the nation’s borders and get international recognition.
One of the surest ways for a song to garner much-coveted international attention is to be featured as a soundtrack in a globally recognized. Such features bring not only worldwide recognition but also financial rewards.
Over the years, some Ghanaian artistes have had the privilege of getting their songs featured in international movies in Hollywood and other platforms like Netflix.
1. Black Sherif – Creed III
Black Sherif is the latest Ghanaian musician to achieve this feat. He featured on a soundtrack for Michael B Jordan’s Creed III movie, which premieres on March 3, 2023.
The song titled Blood, Sweat and Tears, produced by American rapper J Cole’s Dreamville record label has Bas and Kel-P on it alongside Black Sherif.
Internationally recognised Ghanaian rapper, Black Sherif, has caused a stir online after he was captured complaining bitterly about the Indomie he bought.
In the video, after he received his pack of Indomie that he ordered from the food vendor, he questioned why the pack felt light since he paid a lot for the food.
The food vendor then hinted that what he paid for is what he got in the pack he is holding.
There were some voices in the background who insisted that the pack was light because the eggs were scrambled and mixed with the Indomie.
Black Sherif then responded saying that he was not pleased with the quantity of food he was holding.
He made this comment in an interview on the Drink Champs podcast.
According to him, these four superstars mentioned are the only ones that Ghana has when it comes to international representation as compared to Nigerians who have a host of artists who are major and well-known across the world.
“Nigeria has all the stars. Nigeria is like the New York of music in Africa and Ghana is like the Dubai of Africa I can only count about four superstars in Ghana. We have Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy, Sarkodie, and Black Sherif.”
Michael Blackson added that he wants to make Gambo the fifth star from Ghana.
“I want to make Gambo the fifth star and that’s why I signed him.”
Gambo is a well-known entrepreneur and the CEO of BlackMob, an organization founded to provide young people with a platform to showcase their abilities in modeling, studio work, rapping, and other forms of entertainment throughout Ghana, Tanzania, the United States of America, and other countries.
He was allowed to speak about his upcoming single titled ‘Cut Soap’ which features Goya Menor and drops in March.
The Ghanaian rapper also presented some gifts to the hosts of the show showing his appreciation.
Gambo won the ‘Unsung Category’ at last year’s Vodafone Ghana Music Awards and has songs like ‘Girls Girls’, No Stress and Kuacha to his credit.
One of soundtracks in Michael B. Jordan’s movie “Creed III” features Ghana’s Black Sherif and Kel-P Vibes, a Nigerian producer.
The two African artistes along side American rapper Bas worked on ‘Blood, Sweat & Tears’ was released by Dreamville, American superstar J. Cole’s record label.
This is another milestone for Black Sherif in the music industry. Creed III’s album is set to arrive alongside the movie on March 3, 2023.
Dreamville has already shared the first single from the soundtrack featuring Dreamville artists J.I.D. and Lute dubbed ‘Ma Boy.’
A new trailer for Creed III was released on January 29, 2023, and a behind-the-scenes featurette followed on February 10.
Upcoming blockbuster movie, Creed III will be realised on March 3 2023
Black Sherif born Mohammed Ismail Sherif soared to fame in 2021 with his song “First Sermon” which he released in May and has since been climbing the ladder of success.
Udoma Peter Kelvin Amba popularly known by his trademark It’s Kel-P Vibes is best known for producing and co-writing the Grammy nominated world album African Giant in 2019.
Ghanaian rapper, Black Sherif has a wild fanbase not just in Ghana but Nigeria and other parts of the African continent who love him for his music.
The award-winning rapper who recently bagged the ‘Hip Hop Act of the Year’ at the Soundcity MVP Awards was given a resounding welcome by students of the University of Lagos where he interacted with his fans.
Blacko on Thursday, February 16, got mobbed by autograph hunters and people who rushed to take a photo with the Ghanaian hitmaker.
The ‘Meet and Greet’ section allowed students of Unilag to get close to Black Sherif who took time to sign autographs and get personal with them.
The ladies on campus came out in their numbers to see the rapper when he paid them a special visit.
Amid the cheers and screams, Blacko ensured that the experience was made memorable for his fans.
Black Sherif’s song, ‘Kwaku The Traveller’, spoke meaning into the skit since the hook of the song says, “Of course, I effed up, who never effed up hands in the air”.
The video has close to a million views on Instagram and over 2.7 million views on TikTok.
Meanwhile, some Ghanaians have taken to the comment section to tag the celebrated Ghanaian rapper to draw his attention.
Read some reactions below
jarkorful78 said:
KWEKU THE TRAVELER … Blacko to the world
ferozjan34 commented:
This man is very funny hhhhhhhhh
jtscootersports stated:
@blacksherif_ to the world
deba.971 said:
But big brother, it is a really harsh truth for us (students) to pass in the exam. Whether in school or college
The former manager of Ghanaian musician Black Sherif has signed six new artists on his record label.
After the scuffle with his former artiste, Shadrach Agyei Owusu, popularly known as Snap Wayne Chavis, has kept his desires burning.
Becoming a relentless investor, ready to go against all the odds, the pharmacist, who along the line became a music fanatic, says he’s always been keen on supporting pure talent.
“I have always been an investor who has in the past years been the promotional backbone of many hit songs and musicians alike in the Ghanaian music industry,” Chavis Wayne said in an interview.
Shadrach Agyei Owusu, popularly known as Chavis Wayne aka Snap
Some artistes who have benefited from the benevolence of Wayne Chavis Records include Mr Eazi, Awal, Lousika, Amerado and Black Sherif among other ace musicians. He says he has been the silent investor in many artistes and songs alike in Ghana and beyond.
Interestingly, he became a centre of attraction when he parted ways with his then sensational artiste, Black Sherif, who has now become a household name in Ghana.
Chavis Wayne and his team with ex-signee Black Sherif during an event
Even after the recent brouhaha, Snap Wayne Chavis has still not shied away from supporting upcoming deserving talents and putting them on the global market.
Snap Wayne Chavis and Black Sherif
Hence, the young business mogul, through his Wayne Chavis Entertainment record label, has signed six new acts who are set to take over the industry.
The label has dropped a new single featuring all six new musicians – available on various online streaming platforms.
Black Sherif and ex-manager Snap Wayne Chavis before their split
‘Nobody’ is produced by Slvmlife, mixed & mastered by Apya.
The new record ‘Nobody’ “is an impressive single dedicated to the fans, as part of the inaugural celebration to appreciate the love and support of the fans,” Snap Wayne Chavis clarified.
Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie and his fellow rapper Black Sherif have been spotted in a video together as what might be a music video shoot.
Many Ghanaian fans are anticipating that it could be the official music video shoot for their currently trending song ‘Country Side’.
In the video that sought to tease fans about what the video would entail, Landlord as Sarkodie is affectionately called was spotted walking towards an old-school salon car.
Closer to the car, Black Sherif was spotted standing as he leaned towards the engine bonnet. Sarkodie then gave him a handshake which was then followed by a manly hug.
They were captured walking away towards the end of the video which increased the suspense.
The video was shot in black and white and edited with the ‘Country Side’ soundtrack playing in the background.
The month of February was ushered in by the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, commissioning a newly constructed 300-bed unit at the 37 Military Hospital.
According to the president, in a Facebook post he shared, the freshly inaugurated facility will house newly appointed military personnel during their basic training in medical treatment.
Meanwhile, during the ceremony, popular Ghanaian performer, Black Sherif entertained attendees, including the president.
In several photos posted on the president’s Facebook, Black Sherif could be seen performing for the president, who grinned while the singer entertained him.
Blacko arrived at the event dressed in his casual t-shirt, a pair of pants, and a matching cap, despite being scheduled to play at such an important event.
Along with the commissioning, President Akufo-Addo gave the military high command control of the UN Level IV COVID-19 Field Hospital, which is close to the Air Force Base in Accra.
He didn’t stop there though, as he also cut the first sod for the General Headquarters Office Complex for GHQ and the two thousand (2,000) housing units for the Navy.
Black Sherif’s back to back production of hit songs has attracted the attention of award-winning Ghanaian afrobeat artiste Danny Lampo
The “Ebony” crooner has tipped the 20-year-old rapper to win a Grammy Award for Ghana in the future, should he keep up with his hard work.
Black Sherif has been admonished to remain humble and focused
Danny Lampo, like many Music lovers, has rated Blacko as the next big thing in the Ghanaian music scene. His first album “The villain I Never Was” was released somewhere last year and has been topping charts locally and internationally.
In a post, Danny Lampo congratulated him for being able to penetrate the Nigerian music market.
Being able to cross the border of Ghana and enter into the Nigerian music market is not a joke, I’ve been in the music scene for a while now, and I know how hard it is to be accepted in the Nigerian music market.
“I am very proud of you, Your music has been playing around the world. Remain humble and focused, come up with more quality music and stay clean. Hopefully, you can win the Grammy not just for Ghana but for Africa. Lampo wrote.
The “villain I Never Was” has received tons of airplay, becoming one of the most streamed song in the world
Danny Lampo is an Italian-born UK-based Ghanaian afrobeat artiste, he was born in Palermo, Italy on 2nd September 1993, Daniel Amponsah known is showbiz as Danny Lampo is one of the few artistes from Ghana who had a great year from 2020 as he was on almost all the big shows in the UK with some big stars including Grammy award-winning artistes Anthony Hamilton and Tiana Kocher.
Danny Lampo also made some point as to why Nigerian music is going international, It is a cultural characteristic of all human communities that is universal. Pitch, rhythm, dynamics, and the acoustic aspects of timbre and texture are all included in general definitions of music.
Some of these aspects may be emphasized, de-emphasized, or omitted depending on the style or type of music.
There are instrumental pieces, vocal pieces, and pieces that mix singing and instruments; music is performed with a wide range of instruments and vocal approaches ranging from singing to rapping; there are instrumental pieces, vocal pieces, and works that combine singing and instruments.
One of the key ways to sell and promote culture apart from festivals is through music. Since the beginning of time, every single country has been promoting and selling its cultures and making its identity known through music and so far, some countries have done marvellously well at that by indigenously organizing sounds using elements from their cultures.
One of the countries in Africa that have been breaking global boundaries by simply putting together elements of their very own culture, vibes, and language in their songs is Nigeria.
With the emergence of stars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Don Jazzy, P-Square, Iyanya, Rema and the rest, the country is well known globally for its Afro beat/Afro fusion genre.
As a musician, one of the main reasons why Nigerians seem to be doing so well with music internationally is the fact that they maintain the originality and cultural vibes in almost every song to be released by a Nigerian artist.
Ghana, on the other hand, has been doing marvelously well with most artists attaining global stands but to Rob shoulders with Nigerians when it comes to music.
Some top-tier stars from Ghana making recognized are Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, and Shatta Wale but these folks still lack the basics Nigerians have adopted in achieving global stands and I think Black Sherif has shown and proven to be one of the best to get to that level the Nigerians are. Just some few years of breaking through to mainstream and his everywhere. He even managed to penetrate the Nigerian music market with his songs. That alone says it all.
Ever listened to Burna Boy’s Grammy award-winning album “Twice As Tall”? Every single song on the album contains substances from the Nigerian culture, especially their language. Not only has the album gained recognition but has made the originality of the Nigerian culture known to the world.
Sarkodie’s seventh studio Album, “No Pressure”. According to him, the album is purely Hip-hop, thus not everyone will enjoy the songs.
The point here is, adopting the Hip-hop culture knowing perfectly well your country-men won’t enjoy was a wrong move because if your fan base in the country is unable to push to appreciate the craft, there is absolutely no way an outsider will appreciate it.
Black Sherif also released an album “The Villain I Never Was” When listening to the song you can feel the authenticity in the song and how relatable it is for everyone who hears it.
The debate whether the Nigerian music industry is better than the Ghanaian music industry has been an indecisive one; however, Ghanaians have a lot to learn from Nigerians in terms of entertainment and promotional tactics.
Danny Lampo is currently promoting his new single “Baba” and touring some parts of Europe as well.
Nigerian lifestyle and music channel called “Soundcity Radio, and Television” announced the nominees from both Ghana and Nigeria on their Instagram page for this year’s awards edition.
The award festival is presented by Tingo Mobile.
The festival is scheduled to hold on February 11, 2023, at the Eko Convention Centre, Lagos, Nigeria.
The nominations were dominated by Nigerian acts in the 15 music-only awards categories.
The awards have twelve categories including Video of the Year Awards, Best Group or Duo Award, Best Collaboration award, Listeners Choice award, Best Hip-hop award, Best Pop award, Song of the year award, Best Female MVP award, Best Male MVP award, African DJ award, Viewer’s Choice awards and Best New MVP award.
Jamaican dancehall star, Popcaan, linked up with Black Sherif at millionaire, Cheddar’s Number One Oxford Street Hotel & Suites in Osu.
Popcaan and his entourage were excited to see Blacko and jammed to his tune Wasteman, the 8th track off his debut album, The Villian I Never Was. Popcaan and his crew chilled at the car park of the hotel with Blacko and nodded their heads to his melodious music.
Popcaan is in Ghana ahead of his much-anticipated album, Great Is He. The dancehall musician is in Ghana for creative inspiration and shot a music video in Accra on Tuesday, 17th January 2023.
The OVO Sound Label artiste was spotted wearing an expensive Gucci outfit while riding a tricycle on the streets of Accra on the set of the video shoot.
It is the hope of many Ghanaians and fans of Black Sherif that the Jamaican star would do a song with the budding Ghanaian musician.
The official release date and tracklist for Popcaan’s album is yet to be confirmed, but many hope, Black Sherif, will make an appearance on the project.
Alexander Bravo3896 wrote:
They better put firefighters on standby
user576627999711 commented:
Popcaan one if my favorite artist with the true quotes about life
4ks reacted:
They got a collab dropping soon. Issa mad tune Imagine unruly boss linkup with blacko✨
