Sway, the British-Ghanaian rapper, has died at the age of 44.
His death was announced on Thursday by the MOBO Awards, who shared a video on social media of Sway accepting best hip-hop act in 2005, calling his win “a huge moment for UK hip hop”.
“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,” they wrote.
The musician, born Derek Andrew Safo, was in Ghana at the time of his death.
No cause of death has been disclosed.
Sway made history when he became the first unsigned artiste to win the MOBO Award for Best Hip-Hop Act.
He defeated American rappers including 50 Cent and The Game to win the category.
His debut album ‘This Is My Demo’ was released independently in 2006 and was nominated for the Mercury Prize.
Sway also recorded several hit singles, including ‘Little Derek’, ‘Still Speedin’’ and ‘Level Up’, the latter of which peaked in the UK Top 10 in 2012.
Born in London to Ghanaian parents, Sway was raised in north London and began developing his music career through pirate radio before gaining wider recognition.
He later collaborated with artistes including Akon, Ed Sheeran and Riz Ahmed.
Beyond music, Sway appeared in the British crime drama series ‘Top Boy’ and worked as a mentor to younger artistes. Through his Dcypha Productions label, he helped develop emerging acts, including KSI.
KSI was among those who paid tribute to Sway following news of his death, describing him as a father figure who believed in his potential.
In 2010, Sway was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, which went into remission later that year.
