Award-winning British rapper and actor Sway DaSafo has died aged 44, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the UK music industry. Sway, whose real name was Derek Andrew Safo, died after battling lymphoma. His death was confirmed by the MOBO Awards, which said it was “deeply saddened” by his passing. The London-born artist was regarded as a pioneering figure in British hip-hop and also appeared in the hit television drama Top Boy, playing Ross Rosten during the show’s early episodes.
KSI leads tributes
KSI was among those paying tribute, thanking Sway for supporting his music career at a time when others did not take him seriously. He wrote: “You believed in me when many didn’t. You gave me a chance when many didn’t.” Fellow artist Kreams described Sway as a “true legend and pioneer” of UK rap and said the musician leaves behind two sons and two daughters. Top Boy actor Kadeem Ramsay also paid tribute, writing: “Rest Up Legend.”
Made MOBO history
Sway made history in 2005 when he became the first unsigned artist to win a MOBO Award before releasing an album, taking Best Hip-Hop Act ahead of major international artists including 50 Cent and The Game. His debut album, This Is My Demo, followed and earned him a Mercury Prize nomination in 2006. He went on to establish Dcypha Productions and later signed with Akon’s Konvict Music label, touring internationally with the US star. His best-known tracks included Little Derek, Silver & Gold and F Ur X. Sway had previously spoken publicly about being diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2010. He underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy while initially keeping his illness private. The rapper celebrated his 44th birthday on 5 September, posting a photograph with the caption: “Chapter 44.” The MOBO Awards said Sway had left his mark “as an artist and champion of British music”, adding: “Our love and deepest condolences go out to his family, loved ones, friends and everyone who grew up with and was inspired by his music. “Rest in peace, Sway.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
