Zion Matthewz was born Kareem Charles on March 24, 1992 in Brooklyn, NY. He's originally from the Flatbush section of Brooklyn. Hip Hop and R&B music is a staple as well as different genres of music that are popular in the West Indies. As child his mother would play different types of Caribbean music like Reggae, Soca, and Calypso. Zion Matthewz' started his passion for music at the age of 8 years old when he joined the church choir. It was then he knew that he wanted to be an artist. His exposure to such a variety is what helps him in creating music. By the time he was in his teens Zion started idolizing known major artists like Busta Rhymes, Cassidy, 50 cent, Ice Cube, Bob Marley, Vybez Kartel, and Michael Jackson. His more contemporary influences are Tory Lanez, PNB Rock, Bruno Mars, and Chronixx. His songwriting prowess is one of his strengths. He is able to write for himself as well as other artists. His music is based on his struggle and his desire to create excellent material. His versatility is another one of his strengths. He's able to perform and write for a plethora of genres and subgenres. Zion always envisioned himself in the music industry. He started performing on stages at the age of 18, and never looked back. In addition to rapping and singing, Zion also dances. He's performed at several New York City venues and plans on taking his act all over the country and internationally.