By Seli Baisie
Black Sherif has been crowned Artiste of the Year at the 27th edition of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards, capping a remarkable night in which he won five awards.
The 24-year-old musician, born Mohammed Ismail Sherif, emerged as the biggest winner at Ghana’s most prestigious music awards ceremony, held at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
The victory marks Black Sherif’s second Artiste of the Year title, having first won the top honour in 2023. With this latest triumph, he joins a select group of multiple-time winners, including Sarkodie, Stonebwoy and the group VIP.
Five awards in one night
Black Sherif’s dominance at this year’s awards was driven largely by the success of his sophomore album, Iron Boy.
He won the following awards:
- Artiste of the Year
- Album/EP of the Year – Iron Boy
- Songwriter of the Year – Sacrifice
- Best Hip Hop Song – Where Dem Boyz
- Best Afropop Song – Sacrifice
In addition to the trophies, he received a GH¢100,000 investment package from Guinness Ghana
to support his next music project.
A defining year for Black Sherif
Released in April 2025, Iron Boy reinforced Black Sherif’s standing as one of Africa’s most compelling young voices. The project blends drill, highlife and Afrobeats with deeply personal storytelling, a style that has become his signature.
The album produced standout songs such as Sacrifice and Where Dem Boyz, both of which earned him awards on the night.
Black Sherif first rose to prominence in 2021 with his breakthrough hit First Sermon, followed by Second Sermon and the global smash Kwaku the Traveller. His debut album, The Villain I Never Was, established him as one of Ghana’s most influential contemporary artistes.
Strong competition
To win the night’s top prize, Black Sherif beat a formidable list of nominees, including Stonebwoy, Sarkodie, Medikal, Wendy Shay and Diana Hamilton.
His victory reflects a year of commercial success, critical acclaim, sold-out performances and growing international recognition.
Acceptance speech
In his acceptance speech, Black Sherif thanked his fans, management team and everyone who has supported his journey.
“This is for everyone who believed in me and believed in the journey,” he said.
A milestone at 24
Winning Artiste of the Year for a second time at just 24 years old further cements Black Sherif’s place among the leading figures in Ghanaian music.
With Iron Boy continuing to resonate with fans across the world, the award confirms what many in the industry already believe: Black Sherif remains one of the defining voices of his generation.
