Born in Mogadishu, Somalia during the country's civil unrest, rapper K'NAAN, meaning "traveler" in Somali, grew up dodging danger and immersing himself in American hip-hop music sent by his father. After relocating to Harlem and later to Ontario, where he honed his English skills and pursued his passion for rap music, K'NAAN's talent caught the attention of industry figures like Sol Guy and Youssou N'Dour, leading to collaborations and performances around the world. His debut album, The Dusty Foot Philosopher, released in 2005, marked the beginning of his successful career, which included tours with renowned artists like Mos Def and Talib Kweli, and culminated in his track "Wavin' Flag" becoming the anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Following his early struggles in war-torn Somalia, K'NAAN's journey to musical acclaim was marked by perseverance and a strong social conscience, as seen in his bold critique of the United Nations' response to the Somali crisis. From his humble beginnings as a young rapper in North America to his international recognition and major-label debut with A&M Records, K'NAAN's artistry and activism have resonated globally. With hits like "Wavin' Flag" and projects like the More Beautiful Than Silence EP in 2012, K'NAAN continues to inspire audiences with his powerful storytelling and commitment to social justice through music.