Tributes paid following death of UK rap legend Sway
The rapper has been hailed by the likes of Giggs, KSI and the MOBOs following his death.
By Nick Reilly
Tributes have been paid to celebrated UK rapper Sway, who has passed away aged 44.
The musician, real name Derek Andre Safo, was best known for his Top 10 single ‘Level Up’. His death was confirmed by his friend Kream on Instagram yesterday afternoon (17 September).
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 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.”
His death was also confirmed by the MOBO Awards, who shared a video on social media of Sway accepting best hip-hop act in 2005, hailing his win as “a huge moment for UK hip hop”.
They wrote: “We’re deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sway. In 2005, he made MOBO history, beating global heavyweights including 50 Cent and The Game to win Best Hip-Hop Act – a huge moment for Sway and UK Hip Hop. Proud to have him as part of our history. Our love goes out to his family, loved ones and fans.”
Sway memorably became the first unsigned artist to win a MOBO for Best Hip Hop Act in 2005, while his 2006 album This Is My Demo was also nominated for a Mercury Prize.
No cause of death has been recorded, but he was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2010.
KSI paid tribute, writing on social media: “Ah man, this is a lot. Sway, Derek, thank you for everything you’ve done for me.
“You believed in me when many didn’t. You gave me a chance when many didn’t.”
Other tributes came from Giggs, who hailed him as a “legend”.