The record label Coke Boys Records originated as a DVD series called Cocaine City, which Karim Kharbouch, known as French Montana, launched in 2002 to document hip-hop culture. Born in Casablanca in 1984, he migrated to the South Bronx at 13, navigating a transition that led from local battle rapping to becoming a globally recognized, diamond-certified recording artist.
Early Migration and Foundations
Kharbouch spent his first 13 years in Morocco before relocating to New York City with his parents and younger brother. The family settled in the South Bronx, where he adapted to a new environment while learning English in local institutions, including Theodore Roosevelt High School and Herbert H. Lehman High School. Following his father's departure back to Morocco, Kharbouch assumed the role of primary breadwinner for his mother and younger siblings.
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Working under the moniker Young French, he co-created the Cocaine City DVD series alongside a friend named Cams. This venture provided a platform to interview various hip-hop figures while showcasing his own musical projects, including freestyles and underground collaborations. The series spanned 14 volumes between 2002 and 2010. During this period, he survived a shooting outside a Bronx studio in 2003, which resulted in the death of one assailant.
Mainstream Transition and Commercial Success
By 2012, Kharbouch secured a triple-joint venture with Bad Boy Records, Maybach Music Group, and Interscope Records. His debut album, Excuse My French, reached number four on the Billboard 200. Later, the 2017 single Unforgettable, featuring Swae Lee, achieved diamond certification from the RIAA. This release preceded his second studio album, Jungle Rules. He remains the most streamed African-born musical artist and serves as the first from the continent to achieve a diamond-certified track.
Fast facts
- Born: 1984, Casablanca, Morocco
- Primary Occupations: Singer, record producer, musician, songwriter, rapper
- High School Education: Herbert H. Lehman High School, Theodore Roosevelt High School
- Record Label Founded: Coke Boys Records (2008)
- Languages Spoken: English, Arabic, Berber
- Religion: Sunni Islam
- Citizenship: United States, Morocco
- Diamond RIAA Certification: Unforgettable (2017)
Questions readers ask
Did French Montana collaborate with other artists early in his career?
Yes, he collaborated with various artists during his underground years, including Rick Ross, Max B, Uncle Murda, and Jadakiss.
What is the origin of his label Coke Boys Records?
The label grew out of his Cocaine City DVD series, which he produced from 2002 until 2010 to highlight street music and hip-hop culture.
Achievements
- Educated at Herbert H. Lehman High School
- Worked as rapper, singer and songwriter
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