Tributes have been paid to the pioneering British rapper and actor Sway Dasafo, who has died at the age of 44.
The artist, born Derek Safo, died on Thursday 17 September 2026 at his home in Ghana. His death was confirmed by the MOBO Awards, which praised his significant impact on the UK hip-hop scene and his role as a trailblazer for independent artists.
Sway made history in 2005 when he became the first unsigned artist to win a MOBO Award for Best Hip-Hop Act, a landmark moment that demonstrated the growing power of independent music in the UK. During his career, he released several acclaimed projects, including his debut album This Is My Demo, and collaborated with international stars including Akon and Lupe Fiasco.
In addition to his musical achievements, Sway was known to television audiences for his role in the original series of the drama Top Boy. He played the character Ross Rosten during the show’s first season in 2011, helping to establish the gritty realism that became the programme’s hallmark.
The MOBO Awards issued a statement celebrating his legacy, stating: “Sway was a true pioneer and a legend in the UK scene. His 2005 win as an unsigned artist was a pivotal moment for the industry.”
Peers and collaborators have also shared their condolences. YouTuber and rapper KSI credited Sway with being one of the first people in the industry to believe in his potential, while Afrobeats star Fuse ODG also paid tribute to the artist’s influence.
According to The Guardian, a cause of death has not yet been officially released. Sway, who was born in Hornsey, North London, had previously faced health challenges, including a diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma in 2010, which later went into remission.
As of 18 September, no details regarding a public memorial or funeral services have been confirmed. The artist had been residing in Ghana at the time of his death, where he remained active in the creative community.