French Montana's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 23, 2025

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of French Montana.

French Montana, born Karim Kharbouch, is a Moroccan-American rapper. He moved from Morocco to New York City at 13. He started his music career as a battle rapper named Young French in the early 2000s.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2008: Coke Boys Records Founded

In 2008, French Montana founded Coke Boys Records, which has signed artists like Lil Durk and Chinx. He is the most streamed African-born musical artist and the first African-born artist to have a diamond-certified song by the RIAA.

October 2011: "Shot Caller" Gains Traction

In October 2011, French Montana's song "Shot Caller" gained traction on New York radio. Fat Joe praised French's work ethic and revealed that he had been receiving offers from several major labels.

2011: "Shot Caller" Gains Popularity

In 2011, Harry Fraud's track with French Montana, "Shot Caller", became one of the most added tracks on urban contemporary radio.

August 2012: XXL Freshman Class of 2012

In August 2012, French Montana was featured on XXL's Freshman Class of 2012, solidifying his status as a rising artist. He almost turned it down feeling he deserved it earlier.

2012: XXL Freshman Class and Major Label Signing

In 2012, French Montana was included in XXL's Freshman Class. He had already signed to Bad Boy Records and a joint venture with Bad Boy and Maybach Music Group, marking a significant step in his career.

2012: "Shot Caller" Success

In 2012, Harry Fraud's track with French Montana, "Shot Caller" continued gaining mainstream attention.

2017: Filming "Unforgettable" and Charitable Work in Uganda

In 2017, French Montana filmed the music video for his single "Unforgettable" in Uganda. This led to charitable efforts that raised an estimated $500,000 to build the Suubi hospital, benefitting over 300,000 Ugandan citizens.

2017: "Unforgettable" success and Jungle Rules album release

In 2017, French Montana's single "Unforgettable" featuring Swae Lee reached the top ten on the Billboard chart and was later certified diamond. He also released his second studio album, "Jungle Rules," which achieved commercial success and was met with a better critical reception than his previous album.

2018: Named Global Citizen Ambassador

In 2018, French Montana was named an Ambassador for Global Citizen following his charitable donation of $100,000 for a hospital in Uganda.

April 13, 2022: Dismissal of Lawsuit

On April 13, 2022, the lawsuit against French Montana was dismissed pursuant to a settlement.

2022: Raised Funds for Uganda and Received Innovator Award

In 2022, it was reported that French Montana helped raise over US$220 million for Uganda's maternal healthcare services. He received a 2022 Innovator Award for his efforts.