SDM: The phoenix of French rap
Summary
- Introduction to SDM
- Origins and childhood
- The beginnings of his career
- Rise to fame
- The flagship albums
- A unique style
- Distinctions and awards
- Controversies and criticisms
- Conclusion: The future of SDM
1. Introduction to SDM
SDM, whose real name is Léonard Beni Mosabu, is a rising French rapper. Born on November 28, 1995 in Meudon in Hauts-de-Seine, he embodies a new generation of rappers who are leaving their mark on French rap. His unique style and undeniable talent have earned him a prominent place in the French music industry. The following article delves into his world to discover the career of this young rap prodigy.
In August 2023, SDM reached the impressive milestone of one billion audio streams. This year, he also enjoyed the success of "Bolide allemand", recognized as the most listened to French title. Léonard Manzambi, having grown up in a musical atmosphere thanks to his father, producer for Koffi Olomidé, was rocked by Congolese rumba. Adopting the name Saddam, then SDM, he took his first steps in the world of rap at the age of 15 after briefly pursuing a high-level football career. However, his career really took off in 2020 when he signed with 92i, Booba's label. SDM is known for his keen sense of melody and his frank lyrics. On this uninhibited ego trip track, he unabashedly displays his social success. The clip has accumulated more than 61 million views, and on stage at his first Zénith, he announced the release of his third album, "À la vie à la mort", in 2024, as well as a concert at the Accord Arena planned for 2025. It's a new chapter for SDM, who, alongside SCH and Aya Nakamura, will be part of the jury of "Nouvelle école" on Netflix.
2. Origins and childhood
Born into a family of Congolese origin, SDM grew up in Clamart, a commune in Hauts-de-Seine. The youngest of ten children, his childhood was marked by music. His father, producer of the famous Congolese artist Koffi Olomidé and close to Fally Ipupa, undoubtedly played a crucial role in SDM's musical awakening. His mother, active in business and humanitarian work, also instilled strong values in him.
3. The beginnings of his career
SDM started rapping in 2011, at just 15 years old, under the pseudonym SADAM KADAFI 92. He quickly developed his style and refined his art, notably with his group of friends Microbe Thug'z. After a break to refocus, he returned in 2015 and got noticed thanks to his collaborations, notably with PLK.
4. Rise to fame
It was in 2019 that his career really took off. Spotted by Booba, a legend of French rap, SDM signed to the 92i label in 2020. Their collaborations, such as on the title "La Zone", propelled him to the forefront of the scene. His first million views came with the single "Jack Fuego", featuring PLK, which was also certified gold.
5. The flagship albums
In 2021, SDM released his debut album Ocho , which quickly rose to the top of the French charts. The album, an ode to his neighborhood of Clamart, is a skillful mix of hard rap and catchy melodies. It reached platinum in less than a year. His second album, Liens du 100 , released in 2022, confirms his talent and growing popularity.
6. A unique style
What sets SDM apart in French rap is his deep and aggressive voice, combined with poignant and allegorical lyrics. His ability to navigate between sharp rhymes and softer melodies makes him a complete and versatile artist.
7. Distinctions and awards
SDM's career has already been marked by numerous distinctions. In 2022, he was nominated for the BET Awards and the Flammes, where he won several nominations for his collaborations and his album Liens du 100 . His title "Bolide allemand" became one of the most streamed tracks in France in 2023.
8. Controversies and criticisms
Despite his success, SDM is not immune to controversy. His video clip "Gâchette", where he raps alongside an injured police officer, sparked outrage. In addition, he expressed his disappointment after the 2023 Flames, where he did not win any awards despite his successes.
9. Conclusion: The future of SDM
SDM is undoubtedly a talent to watch closely in the years to come. With a new album in preparation for 2024, entitled À la vie à la mort , he continues to surprise and innovate. His growing influence in French rap is a testament to his ability to reach a wide audience with his authentic and impactful music.
