Sharif D. King, professionally known as “King Sharif,” has become a standout figure in multimedia journalism and entertainment. Born May 7, 1985, and raised between Harlem and the Bronx, King Sharif discovered his passion for broadcasting early. Inspired by radio luminaries like Angie Martinez and television icons such as Oprah Winfrey, he pursued formal education in media, earning an associate’s degree in Liberal Arts & broadcasting from Five Towns College, a bachelor’s from SUNY with a focus on media, with a minor in Theatre, and a master’s in Broadcast & Digital Journalism (Sports Media emphasis) from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School. He also holds a master’s degree from Delaware State University, majoring in Mass Communications (Radio and TV), and Sports Administration.
King Sharif’s career began in 2007 with mixtape hosting— We Gon Dance Pt. 2 alongside DJ G$Money and Harlem 2 Hollywood with DJ E-Nyce. By 2009, he was hosting the Rucker Park–centered series EBC Uncut TV and co-hosting a leading internet radio show with DJ Spazo. In 2012, he expanded his profile as the official host of HBCU Mixtapes and the HBCU Follow Train alongside DJ Burn, spotlighting talent from historically Black colleges and universities.
In 2015, he hosted rap events and beat battles with TheRapFest.com and served as a journalist for Dopeness Magazine.
Between 2016 and 2018, King Sharif solidified his reputation as host and producer of the Sharif D. King Show on 101.1 The Wiz, Radio One’s Cincinnati station, delivering entertainment news and cultural commentary. In 2017, he also made regular Friday contributor appearances on Fox 19 in Cincinnati. In 2019, he took on the role of in-game arena host for basketball and football at Syracuse University. From 2021 to 2022, he served as a reporter and anchor for WETM 18 News in Elmira, New York—hosting shows on 101.7 Jamz and Wink 106.
As founder of Sharif D. King Media, he produces Behind The Krown, a digital interview series featuring artists and influencers, and hosts the long-form Konnect 4 Life podcast. His multimedia reach extends to starring in Emanny & Jadakiss’s “Young and Ready” music video, appearing in a commercial alongside Ryan Leslie, and recording voiceover spots for Sirius XM and Pandora.
Beyond broadcasting, King Sharif advocates for Multiple Sclerosis awareness in honor of his mother’s health journey and supports diabetes in honor of his grandmother. With one of his siblings and close friends having autism, he also supports efforts involving the aforementioned. Off the air, he deejays local events, hosts sports events and concerts, moderates panels, serves as an orator for various speaking engagements, collects sneakers, and experiments with new recipes. With an expanding digital presence and a strong commitment to community engagement, King Sharif continues redefining the role of a modern multimedia journalist.
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Learning about how Sharif got his start in the world of media and entertainment was highly enjoyable and informative. Seeing just how far he’s come fills me with a deep sense of pride. I wish him well on his future endeavors and I hope he becomes everything he wants to be and more. I’m rooting for you!
Dope Article & A Very Very Dope Man 💕
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