Biko Black

Biko Black was born in London and shortly after, he and his parents moved back to 

 Africa where they are from, Gabon. His family bought him a piano when he was

five, and he was an enthusiastic participant at fire ceremonies (a significant component of

Gabonese culture) where drums and other instruments were played. He became very

passionate about music at an early age, but had to prioritize learning English when his family.

immigrated to the United States.

By the time Biko Black turned 14, he had the basics of the language down and got back to the

music. Still, he remained shy until he was in his 20s due to a language barrier. During that

time, he found refuge in his tight-knit family and music from Tupac, Young Jeezy, Kendrick

Lamar, and J Cole. While attending New Mexico Highlands University, Biko Black learned

more about music by working at the college radio station, fell into music engineering, and was

highlighted in the school newspaper.

In his music, Biko Black tells stories about the struggles he’s encountered in the States and

back in Africa. He’s naturally very observant, a good listener, and has two perspectives – as a

foreigner, and now, as an American. In that, Biko Black has sage words regarding topics like

governmental affairs and incarceration. His accent adds flavor to his flow, and he tells

cohesive stories, rapping in both French and English on a single track.