Shadrack “Shaddy” Oppong is a Ghanaian-born drummer, composer, and producer known for his powerful, genre-blending style. Based in Los Angeles, Shaddy draws from over 16 years of experience, fusing Afrobeat, jazz, gospel, reggae, hip-hop, R&B, and alternative rock into a unique rhythmic voice.
Raised in Obuasi, Ghana, Shaddy began drumming in church at 14. Entirely self-taught in his early years, he later earned a degree in Psychology and Philosophy before committing fully to music. His influences include legends like John Blackwell, George “Spanky” McCurdy, Dave Weckl, and Emmanuel Bludo.
From 2014 to 2018, he toured extensively with Ghanaian gospel artist Akesse Brempong, becoming a standout name in West Africa’s music scene. In 2019, he earned a full-tuition scholarship to Berklee College of Music, completing both a Professional Music (Music Business and Production) degree and a master's in Contemporary Performance (Global Jazz) at the Berklee Global Jazz Institute. He was honored as Outstanding Student of the Year (2022–2023), studying under icons such as Ron Savage, John Patitucci, Danilo Pérez, Jon Hazilla, Neal Smith and Billy Kilson.
Shaddy has performed and recorded with artists like Bren Joy, Taylor Deneen, Fana Hues, Rocket House, Moncho Berry, Rudy La Scala, Jonathan Suazo and many others. His drumming—deeply rooted, globally fluent, and spiritually resonant—continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Currently touring with Grammy-winning artist Judith Hill, Shaddy is also preparing to release his debut EP, The Journey—a vibrant blend of African heritage and contemporary global sounds.
