Sidhu Moose Wala

Few artists have left as deep a mark on Punjabi music as Sidhu Moose Wala. Born Shubhdeep Singh Sidhu on June 11, 1993, in Moosa, Punjab, he went from a small-town boy with big dreams to one of the most influential Punjabi rappers and singers of his era. Known for his bold lyrics, unique vocal tone, and unapologetic authenticity, Sidhu became a global icon for the Punjabi diaspora before his tragic death in May 2022. Today, his music continues to shape the sound and spirit of modern Punjabi music.

Early Life & Education

Sidhu grew up in the village of Moosa, Mansa district, Punjab. Inspired by Tupac Shakur and Punjabi folk artists alike, he began writing rap verses as a teenager. After completing his schooling, he studied Electrical Engineering at Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College, Ludhiana. Later, he moved to Canada for further studies, but it was music—not engineering—that became his calling.

Rise to Fame

Sidhu first caught attention as a lyricist, writing the track License for Ninja in 2016. But it was his breakout single So High (2017), produced by Byg Byrd, that made him a household name. The song went viral on YouTube, introducing his powerful storytelling and raw delivery to millions.

From there, Moose Wala quickly established himself as a pioneer of the Punjabi rap scene. His early singles like Issa Jatt, Tochan, and Selfmade showcased a new style—mixing Punjabi folk with Western hip-hop beats.

Music Career & Discography

Sidhu’s music catalog is among the most impactful in Punjabi history.

Key Projects:

PBX 1 (2018) – His debut album, blending hip-hop with Punjabi sounds. It charted on the Canadian Albums Chart.
Moosetape (2021) – A massive 30-track project featuring collaborations with UK and Canadian rappers, it cemented him as a global artist.
Singles – Hits like Just Listen, Legend, 295, and The Last Ride are now considered anthems for fans worldwide.

Across Spotify and YouTube, his songs collectively crossed billions of streams, making him one of the most-streamed South Asian artists ever.

Style & Influence

Sidhu’s music combined street realism, village pride, and political commentary. His lyrics often touched on themes of Punjabi identity, youth struggles, and his unapologetic stance against critics. He drew influence from both Tupac and Punjabi folk icons, creating a style that felt both revolutionary and rooted in tradition.

His influence extended beyond music—he became a cultural symbol of resilience for Punjabis worldwide, with his songs often quoted in social media captions, rallies, and protests.

Political Career

In December 2021, Sidhu joined the Indian National Congress and contested the 2022 Punjab Legislative Assembly elections from Mansa. Though he lost the election, his move into politics reflected his desire to represent and uplift Punjab’s youth.

Tragic Death & Legacy

On May 29, 2022, Sidhu Moose Wala was tragically shot dead in his home district at just 28 years old. His death sent shockwaves through India and the Punjabi diaspora. Fans across the world poured into streets, vigils, and concerts to honor him, and tributes came from artists including Drake and Burna Boy.

Songs like 295 and The Last Ride took on new meaning after his passing, becoming part of his immortal legacy.

Global Recognition

Why Sidhu Moose Wala Matters

Sidhu Moose Wala wasn’t just an artist—he was a movement. His lyrics gave voice to a generation navigating identity, ambition, and struggle. His blend of desi pride with hip-hop grit created a cultural blueprint followed by countless new artists. Even in death, his legacy fuels Punjabi music’s global rise.