Shad was born in Kenya to Rwandan parents and was raised in London, Ontario. He self-made his debut album, "When This Is Over" with a $17,500 cash prise that he won from 91.5 The Beat's Rhythm of the Future talent competition. His album "The Old Prince" was nominated for a Juno Award for "Rap Recording of the Year", and was also nominated for the 2008 Polaris Music Prize. His third album, "TSOL" was nominated for the 2010 Polaris Music Prize, a 2011 MuchMusic Video Award, and won the Juno Award for "Rap Recording of the Year" at the 2011 Juno Awards.