MOBO-Winning British-Ghanaian Rapper Sway DaSafo Dies At 44
September 19, 2026 • Entertainment
British-Ghanaian rapper and producer Sway DaSafo, whose real name was Derek Andrew Safo, has died at the age of 44. Born in North London to Ghanaian parents, he made history at the 2005 MOBO Awards by winning Best Hip-Hop Act as an unsigned artist, beating prominent rappers 50 Cent and The Game.
Known for tracks such as Little Derek, Still Speedin’ and Level Up, Sway played a significant role in bringing British hip-hop into the mainstream. He also collaborated with artists including Ed Sheeran and Akon and helped nurture the musical career of KSI. He reportedly died at his home in Ghana on September 17, 2026. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.