Shad is the ultimate underdog success story, even if his success is still in progress. The London, Ontario emcee, originally born in Kenya to Rwandan parents, grew up with very little money, but still managed to make two albums that have earned a ton of critical validation. His first album, When This Is Over was entirely self made and financed with a $17,500 prize from an urban radio station. His newer album, The Old Prince was nominated for a Juno and the most coveted of all Canadian music awards, the Polaris Prize, which ignores stature for pure musical ability and inherent merit (try and say that five times fast). Shad will perform Friday at the Gateway. Expect socially conscious lyrics typical of the Canadian hip hop scene, catchy beats, and the occasional glimpse of his quirky sense of humour. Also in the bill is the Vancouver indie-rock band Hey Ocean.