SHERIFA GUNU
Sherifa Gunu is more than a name in Ghanaian music; she is a force of soul-stirring music and a symbol of African traditional arts.
Sherifa blends her soulful tunes with traditional rhythms to create a musical style for herself regionally and even internationally. In addition to being a musician, she is also a songwriter, dancer and advocate who uses her platform to promote African culture as well as women’s empowerment.
Her growth from humble beginnings to achieving international recognition is inspirational and a testament to her work ethic, talent and love for creative art.
Profile Summary of Sherifa Gunu
Full Name: Osman Sherifa Gunu
Age: 48 years
Nationality: Ghanaian
Hometown: Dagbani Dabbi-fong, Tamale, Northern Region
Tribe: Dagomba
Fan Base: Gunu Family
Social Media:
Facebook: Sherifa Gunu [no link]
Twitter: @sherifagunu [https://twitter.com/sherifagunu]
Instagram: @sherifagunu [https://www.instagram.com/sherifagunu]
Sherifa’s Early Life and Family Background
Sherifa Gunu is the daughter of the royal Gunu Dang family in Savelegu, Northern Ghana. Osman Gunu and Mma Memunatu raised Sherifa to value hard work with cultural pride.
Sherifa grew up in Tamale and Sabobongida, where she was exposed to the Dagomba traditions that she draws on for her tribal or folk aesthetic music style.
She has two siblings, a younger sister and a brother; both were also part of her musical life.
Sherifa attended Ghana Senior High School in Tamale while gaining a greater appreciation for her love for music and dance.
Sherifa’s Personal Life
Sherifa married a Nigerian businessman, Ikechukwu Sunday, in 2015. The couple had two children: an aspiring musician, Irana Ikechukwu and Bubu Ikechukwu. The marriage did not last, and Sherifa has since embraced single parenthood as she continues to pursue her career.
A Path Through Dance and Music
Sherifa’s artistic experience began as she performed in singing and dancing until she was recognized in regional dance competitions and won one!
In 1990 she won at a regional level. She excelled at the national level of competition as the first runner-up in the Embassy Pleasure dance contest in 1998 and the Hiplife Dance Championship in 2003 against the legendary Terry Bonchaka.
Music
Sherifa transitioned into music in 2005 with the release of her first single, “Yumeataba.” Her discography has continued to build and as a leading member of the ever-growing hiplife genre, she has collaborated with leading Ghanaian artists like Sarkodie, R2BEES, Blakk Rasta, and Iwan Suhuyi. She possesses a deep and loyal fan base as she continues to grow and expose her talents worldwide.
Her Performances
Sherifa Gunu has performed in front of energized audiences all over Ghana and the world. Her performances have spanned Canada, the United Kingdom, South Africa, the United States, and many countries in Europe. Notable events include:
2020 Ghana Arts and Culture Awards (GACA)
Canada Day 2020 Virtual Concert
Global Music Awards Africa 2021
Made in Ghana UK Festival 2022
Her ability to engage her audience through her music and dance has made her a worldwide performer.
Her Albums and Tracks
Sherifa has recorded three albums:
Dokpeda
Wura
Kujani
Her music is celebrated all over the world, showcasing her versatility and cultural pride. Her songs, like “Fall in Love,” “Strength of Woman,” “African Woman,” and “Dokpeda,” send messages of love, strength, and Africanness.
Her Awards and Recognition
Sherifa’s artistry has earned her several awards, including the following:
Traditional Artist of the Year (VGMA 2013)
Ghanaian Traditional Artist of the Year (Ghana Music Awards UK 2017)
Honorary Awards (Ghana Music Awards USA 2020)
Extraordinary Ladies Conference Awards (2021)
Global Music Awards Africa (2021)
National industrious Awards (2023)
Her work in dance also has been recognized, winning 1st runner-up in the 1997 National Dance Championship and the 2003 Hiplife dance championship.
Her Collaborations
Sherifa’s artistry extends beyond her solo endeavors. She has been a backup singer for Ghanaian highlife legends Nana Acheampong, Amanzeba, and Amakye Dede. She has worked with current artists, making her a versatile and well-known musician.
Her Lifestyle: House, Cars and Net Worth
Sherifa Gunu enjoys the rewards of her work with a house and more than a few cars. Her net worth is estimated to be $2 million, most of which she earned through her music career and endorsements.
Sherifa’s Legacy and impact
Sherifa Gunu is much more than a musician; she is a cultural ambassador who uses the platform she has to elevate and celebrate African traditions and inspire the next generation.
Her journey from a small part of Tamale to stages around the world is a testament to her drive, talent and pride in who she is and where she comes from.
In continuing to break down barriers and redefine African music, Sherifa Gunu is a shining example of what it means to remain true to one’s heritage while advocating for opportunities on the global stage.
