Black Sherif surpasses 500 million streams on Boomplay

“Special congratulations to Iron Boy the pacesetter Black Sherif and fans for hitting a record of 500 million total streams on Boomplay,” the DSP announced about the artist’s achievement, which makes him the first Ghanaian to reach this milestone on the platform.

This achievement brings Black Sherif closer to the Platinum Club, reserved for artists with 1 billion streams. He will receive both online and offline promotional support in Boomplay’s markets and will be prioritised for his upcoming releases. Last year, Nigeria’s Burna Boy became the first-ever artist to reach that milestone.

In August last year, Boomplay honoured Black Sherif for surpassing 300 million streams on the platform – the most by a Ghanaian musician.

“It takes a village and everyone’s effort,” Black Sherif said of that milestone. “I am very grateful to you guys for your energy, support and streaming. I do appreciate this so much. I used to make music not knowing what would come of it. From that to the accolades and receiving this new plaque have been nothing but mind-blowing. I love and appreciate the fans for being there for me and the music I create. This one is for them. My gratitude also goes to Boomplay for continuously supporting my journey.”

Boomplay’s communications and public relations manager, Paul Azumah-Ayitey, said: “Having played an important role in Black Sherif’s emergence and success story, Boomplay is always proud of his achievements and the new ground he keeps breaking. His meteoric rise has been phenomenal and a testament to his great talent and potential.” 

Born Mohammed Ismail Sherif and signed to the American distribution company and record label EMPIRE, the singer is known for hits like the 2021 ‘First Sermon’ and ‘Second Sermon’ as well as his debut album The Villian I Never Was. In May 2023, he won five awards at the 2023 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards, including the coveted Artist of the Year prize.

In July, Boomplay, which boasts over 70 million subscribers, partnered with South Korea’s media and entertainment company YG Plus to reach a new audience on the continent for its catalogue.

According to YG Plus CEO Sung Jun Choi, the deal would “ enable our artists to expand their following in Africa, tapping into the vibrant music scene on the continent and allowing fans to access their favourite tracks with ease.” 

Boomplay said: “Our extensive market-leading reach in the African terrain provides an opportunity for catalogues to be monetised and exposed to the fastest-growing music streaming market in the world.”