Stormzy is a British rapper, singer, and songwriter who garnered recognition in 2014 within the UK underground music scene with his Wicked Skengman series, consisting of freestyles over traditional grime instrumentals.
Early life and Education
Michael Ebenezer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr., born on July 26, 1993, hails from Croydon, London. His Ghanaian mother and taxi driver father raised him alongside his siblings, including his cousin, rapper Nadia Rose, in South Norwood. Despite not growing up in a particularly musical environment, Stormzy, while attending Stanley Tech South Norwood, discovered his passion for music at a young age. Beginning to rap at 11, he engaged in rap battles with older artists at his local youth club.
Reflecting on his school days, Stormzy admitted to being a mischievous student, often on the brink of expulsion, but excelled academically when he applied himself. While he achieved impressive grades in his GCSEs, his A Levels results were less satisfying, serving as a lesson in the importance of hard work. Following his education, he pursued an apprenticeship in Leamington Spa and worked in quality assurance at an oil refinery in Southampton for two years.
Career
After gaining prominence in the UK underground music scene with his Wicked Skengman series, Stormzy independently released his debut EP, Dreamers Disease, in July 2014. Notably, he clinched the Best Grime Act award at the MOBO Awards in October of the same year and made history as the first unsigned rapper to grace Later… with Jools Holland, showcasing “Not That Deep.” Collaborating with rapper Chip and Shalo on “I’m Fine” further solidified his presence.
In January 2015, Stormzy secured the third spot in the “BBC Introducing top 5” on Radio 1. His single “Know Me From” entered the UK Singles Chart in March. Continuing his momentum, he dropped “WickedSkengMan 4,” which marked his first top 40 hit, and notably performed “Shut Up” during British boxer Anthony Joshua’s ring-walk, sparking a Christmas number 1 campaign.
In April 2016, Stormzy released “Scary” before taking a hiatus, returning in 2017 with his album Gang Signs & Prayer, which soared to number one on the UK Albums Chart. His headline performance at the 2019 Glastonbury Festival received widespread acclaim, featuring notable statements on social and political issues.
Stormzy’s chart-topping success continued with singles like “Vossi Bop,” collaborations with Burna Boy and Ed Sheeran, and “Take Me Back to London” with Ed Sheeran. He later announced his second album, Heavy Is the Head, and was recognized for his activism and music contributions.
His third album, This Is What I Mean, dropped in November 2022, preceded by the single “Hide & Seek.” Continuing his musical journey, he released “Toxic Trait” featuring Fredo in June 2023 and collaborated with Raye on “The Weekend” a month later, showcasing his versatility and enduring impact in the music industry.
Controversy
In November 2017, it emerged that Stormzy had made a series of tweets in 2011 that were considered homophobic. These included derogatory references to a gay character on EastEnders and the use of offensive language towards others. Stormzy later issued a public apology, acknowledging his past ignorance and expressing regret for his hurtful comments. He emphasized his growth and understanding since then, apologizing to those he offended, particularly the LGBTQ+ community.
Additionally, Stormzy faced controversy in October 2020 when a video surfaced showing him and others at grime artist Chip’s house in June of that year. The incident led to a heated argument and police involvement, reportedly triggered by tensions stemming from a perceived diss in Chip’s song “Waze.”
Personal life
Stormzy identifies as a Christian. He participated in the BBC’s Christmas Day lineup in 2019, where he read a passage from the Gospel of Luke.
He is also a big fan of Manchester United.
Political Activism
In May 2016, Stormzy publicly endorsed Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, citing admiration for Corbyn’s activism. At the Glastonbury Festival in June 2017, he led a chant of “Oh, Jeremy Corbyn” and performed a rap dedicated to the Grenfell Tower fire victims, urging accountability from authorities. Stormzy’s support continued, as seen when he called Prime Minister Theresa May a “paigon” at the GQ Men of the Year Awards, where Corbyn presented him with an award.
During the 2018 Brit Awards, Stormzy criticized May’s response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy in a freestyle performance. This prompted a statement from 10 Downing Street defending the Prime Minister. In the lead-up to the 2019 UK general election, Stormzy joined other musicians in endorsing Corbyn, advocating for an end to austerity and emphasizing the potential for “people-led change” under a Labour government. He pledged £1 million annually for 10 years to support charities and organizations fighting racial inequality, justice reform, and black empowerment in the UK, following the George Floyd protests. Stormzy emphasized the need for systemic change, declaring his commitment to leveling the playing field for black individuals in society.
Net Worth
Estimated to be over 20 million dollars