- He is best known for his Top 10 hit Level Up from 2012 and his Mercury-nominated album, This Is My Demo.
UK rap and music industry pioneer Sway has passed away aged 44.
Real name Derek Andre Safo, he is best known for his Top 10 single Level Up from 2012. The death was confirmed by his close friend Kream on Instagram this afternoon (17 September).
Kream revealed the two had recently been in contact, sharing their struggles with health issues and supporting each other as fathers.
Kream said: ” Devastated to hear of the sad news today, the passing of a personal friend, a true legend and pioneer in the UK rap game, @swaydasafo.
“We’ve been staying in touch recently, sharing our struggles with health issues and keeping each other’s spirits up, especially as fathers and staying strong for our kids. He leaves behind 2 sons and 2 beautiful little girls that I had the pleasure of talking to on FaceTime recently.
“Thoughts and prayers with him and his family.”
Sway became the first unsigned artist to win a MOBO award for Best Hip Hop Act in 2005 and released This Is My Demo to critical acclaim, which was also nominated for a Mercury Prize in 2006.
Tributes have poured in for the artist, including a heartfelt message from Giggs, with many others dubbing him a “legend”.
Our thoughts are with Sway’s family and friends at this tough time.
Watch an unreleased interview of Sway with NY DJ on BTM Afrika from 2017.
