British-Ghanaian rapper Sway DaSafo has died at the age of 44, with tributes emerging from friends and members of the UK music scene.
News of his death emerged on Thursday, 17 September 2026, after UK-based car customiser Kream paid tribute to the rapper on Instagram, describing him as a “true legend and pioneer” of UK rap.
Kream said he and Sway had remained in contact in recent months and had supported each other through health-related challenges while navigating fatherhood.
He said Sway leaves behind four children two sons and two daughters.
No cause of death has been publicly disclosed.
Born Derek Andrew Safo in London to Ghanaian parents, Sway became a prominent figure in British hip hop during the 2000s.
He gained recognition with songs including “On My Own” and “Little Derek” before releasing his debut album, This Is My Demo, in 2006.
His career included collaborations with international artistes and producers, while his Ghanaian heritage remained an important part of his music.
In 2008, he released “Black Stars”, a song celebrating prominent Ghanaians in the diaspora.
Sway also worked with Ghanaian artistes, including Sarkodie, strengthening his connection with Ghana’s music industry.
He won the MOBO Award for Best Hip Hop in 2005 and later became the first UK rapper to win a BET Hip Hop Award.
His music career helped establish him as one of the early British rappers to gain recognition beyond the UK.
Tributes have since begun to emerge online, with friends and fans remembering his contribution to British hip hop and his influence on the UK rap scene.
Sway’s death comes as the UK music community continues to pay tribute to an artiste whose career bridged British hip hop and his Ghanaian heritage.
