Stormzy, born Michael Ebenazer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr., is a British rapper, singer, and songwriter who rose to prominence as a leading figure in the UK grime scene. Known for his powerful lyrics, socially conscious themes, and charismatic stage presence, he quickly gained fame for his distinct voice in grime and hip-hop. Stormzy is celebrated not only for his music but also for his activism, speaking out on issues of racial equality, mental health, and education.
2014 Gains attention with his WickedSkengMan freestyle series on YouTube, showcasing his raw talent and lyrical ability, which helps him build a following.
2015 Releases single "Shut Up," which goes viral and reaches No. 8 on the UK Singles Chart after a campaign to make it the UK Christmas No. 1 song.
2017 Debut album Gang Signs & Prayer is released, featuring hits like "Big for Your Boots" and "Blinded by Your Grace." The album debuts at No. 1 in the UK and makes him the first grime artist to achieve a No. 1 album.
2019 Releases second album Heavy Is the Head, featuring singles like "Vossi Bop," "Crown," and "Own It" (featuring Ed Sheeran and Burna Boy). The album receives critical acclaim and further establishes him as a major figure in UK music.
2019 Becomes the first black solo British artist to headline Glastonbury Festival, delivering a powerful performance that includes a tribute to victims of the Grenfell Tower fire and calls for racial equality.
2022 Releases third album This Is What I Mean, exploring more personal themes and experimenting with new sounds, marking a departure from traditional grime.
Known for collaborations with artists across genres, including Ed Sheeran, Burna Boy, and Ghetts, blending grime, hip-hop, and R&B.
Worked with producers like Fraser T Smith and Sir Spyro, creating a unique sound that combines grime with mainstream appeal.
Stormzy has not been nominated for Grammy Awards, but he has won multiple awards in the UK, including Brit Awards and MOBO Awards, highlighting his influence on British music.
2018 Launches the "Stormzy Scholarship" at the University of Cambridge, covering tuition and living costs for black students from the UK, demonstrating his commitment to supporting educational opportunities.
2019 "Vossi Bop" debuts at No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming his first UK No. 1 single and breaking streaming records in the process.
2020 Donates £10 million over 10 years to support organizations fighting racial inequality, a significant gesture that highlights his dedication to activism and social justice.