Stormzy is a British rapper, singer, and songwriter who has become one of the most influential figures in the UK music scene. Rising to prominence in 2014 with his "Wicked Skengman" series of freestyles over classic grime beats, Stormzy quickly made a name for himself within the underground grime scene. His track "Shut Up," which started as a freestyle on YouTube, gained significant popularity and peaked at number eight on the UK Singles Chart after he launched a campaign to reach Christmas number one. This success was a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his ability to connect with a broad audience.
Stormzy's impact grew with the release of his debut album, Gang Signs & Prayer, in February 2017. This album marked a historic moment as it became the first grime album to reach number one on the UK Albums Chart, solidifying his status as a major player in British music. The album went on to win British Album of the Year at the 2018 Brit Awards, a testament to his talent and the widespread appeal of his music. Known for his politically charged lyrics and willingness to speak out on social issues, Stormzy’s performance at the 2019 Glastonbury Festival made headlines when he wore a Union Jack stab vest designed by Banksy, highlighting the rising knife crime rates in London. This made him the first black British rapper to headline the iconic festival, further cementing his position as a headline act.
Following his groundbreaking debut, Stormzy released his second album, Heavy Is the Head, in December 2019. This album continued his success, featuring the UK number-one single "Vossi Bop" and receiving a nomination for the Mercury Prize in 2020. In the same year, he was recognised for his influence beyond music, ranking third on the Powerlist of the most influential Black Britons due to his advocacy against racial injustice and his philanthropy, including a pledge of £10 million to support educational and social justice causes. Stormzy's artistry extends beyond music into activism, making him not only a musical force but also a powerful voice for change.
In 2022, Stormzy continued to evolve his musical journey with the release of his third album, This Is What I Mean, recorded on Osea Island in England. The lead single, "Mel Made Me Do It," was accompanied by a star-studded 11-minute music video featuring prominent figures such as Usain Bolt and José Mourinho, showing his continued relevance and ability to innovate in the music industry. Stormzy's role as a headline act is reinforced by his ability to captivate audiences both on stage and through his recorded music, making him a defining figure in contemporary British rap and grime.
