Page 100 – Sway's Universe

Bernie Mac’s Last Advice to Earthquake: A Comedy Legend’s Secret

Posted on Jan 26, 2024

In a recent visit to Sway In The Morning, comedic legend Earthquake unveiled a trove of untold stories and insights from his illustrious career. The visit was part of his promotion for his upcoming show at Sony Hall, 235 W 46th St. NY, NY. Doors open at 6pm.

In a riveting video, Earthquake offered an exclusive backstage pass to the comedy world, taking us behind the scenes of Dave Chappelle’s epic 50th birthday bash. From addressing the Katt Williams controversy with uncompromising precision and humor to sharing never-before-heard tales about stalwarts like Bernie Mac, Steve Harvey, and Donnell Rawlings, this is one video comedy aficionados can’t afford to miss.

Getting candid about the ebb and flow of comedy, Earthquake shared his take on the state of the art form today. He spoke about his experiences on iconic comedy stages such as Def Comedy Jam, BET Comic View, and Kevin Hart’s Laugh Out Loud. Expect laughter, deep thoughts, and possibly even a few tears, as Earthquake’s narrative is as emotionally stirring as it is hilarious.

Don’t miss Earthquake’s show, where he continues to shine bright in the comedy world, delivering jokes, wisdom, and insights with the craftsmanship that has defined his career. Additionally, the show promises a rare glimpse into the raw truths of the comedy sphere. It’s not just a comedy show; it’s a comedy experience.

Game Changers: A New Initiative by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

SU Staff

Posted on Jan 25, 2024

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the leading youth mentoring organization in the country, is excited to announce a groundbreaking initiative: Game Changers. This innovative program brings together influential leaders and change-makers from across the nation to address pressing issues impacting America’s youth. Topics include mental health, equity, and the power of mentorship.

In a country where one in three children lack a consistent adult mentor and over 30,000 young people are on the BBBSA’s national waitlist, Game Changers is more than a program—it’s a lifeline. This initiative aims to emphasize that mentorship is not a luxury, but a necessity.

For its inaugural group, Game Changers has enlisted prominent Black men who have personally experienced the transformative power of mentorship. They will support BBBSA’s mission to attract more mentors (“Bigs”) and address the significant representational gap in mentorship, with three times more black youth than black mentors in BBBS’ programs.

The Game Changers roster boasts an impressive lineup, including Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D., Aloe Blacc, Wayne Brady, Kelvin Buncum, Nate Burleson, Sway Calloway, “GRIFF”, Daymond John, Solomon Thomas, Rachaad White, and Terrance Williams. These influential and inspiring figures will use their platforms to shift the mentorship narrative, share their journeys, and encourage volunteers, particularly Black men, to get involved.

“Each Game Changer embodies the profound impact of mentorship and possesses the power to inspire the next generation of leaders,” said Artis Stevens, president and CEO of BBBSA. Known for its ‘It Takes Little to be Big’ national campaign, BBBSA’s Game Changers also represents a national call-to-action, encouraging volunteers, partners, and supporters to create countless mentoring moments for young people nationwide.

Future Game Changers will come from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the variety of inspiring stories and journeys of young people in need of positive mentorship across the nation. Collaborations with industry leaders such as TikTok and Clear Channel Outdoor will amplify the Game Changers’ mentoring stories and rally volunteer support nationwide.

For more information, visit BBBSA Game Changers.

Features

Kevin Gates Unleashes Unfiltered Honesty on Sway In The Morning

SU Staff

Posted on Jan 25, 2024

As we inch closer to the release of Kevin Gates’ highly anticipated fourth studio album, “The Ceremony”, the rapper stopped by Sway In The Morning to provide an explosive teaser for his fans. The album, scheduled for release THIS FRIDAY, 1/26, is already preceded by a successful single, “Birds Calling”. This heart-thumping track has already garnered more than 1.7M views on YouTube since its release on 1/12.

In the interview with Sway, Kevin Gates proves once again why he remains one of the most unapologetic figures in hip-hop. From discussing his firm belief in self-discipline to sharing his insights on manifestation and a woman’s intuition, Gates leaves no stone unturned. His raw and candid expressions of transformation from a man battling internal issues to becoming a role model of personal growth is nothing short of inspiring.

Gates also offers listeners a glimpse into a lesser-known side of his life. He talks about his experiences living on a farm, his unique approach to self-accountability, and his unwavering commitment to his path. In an unexpected turn, Gates also discusses the practice of semen retention and how it has impacted his life and work.

This isn’t your ordinary rapper interview. This is Kevin Gates, in all his authenticity, challenging his listeners to reconsider everything they thought they knew about him. If you’re a die-hard Gates fan, or if you’re just keen on exploring compelling conversations and raw insights, you won’t want to miss this. Subscribe now for this exclusive content and join the conversation, witness the transformation, and be inspired by the power of living authentically.

Events

Offset Announces First Solo Headline Tour: “Set It Off”

SU Staff

Posted on Jan 24, 2024

GRAMMY-nominated, Offset has announced his first-ever solo headline tour, the SET IT OFF TOUR. This revelation marks a significant turn in Offset’s career, showcasing his solo artistry and echoing his latest album titled “SET IT OFF”.

The album, which dropped in October 2023, was met with positive reception from fans and critics alike. It boasted an impressive roster of guest features from industry giants like Travis Scott, Don Toliver, Future, and Cardi B, as well as rising star Latto, among others.

The SET IT OFF TOUR, produced by Live Nation, will span 17 cities, offering fans a unique opportunity to experience Offset’s solo artistry live. The tour is set to kick off on March 10th at The Fillmore in Philadelphia, PA, with stops in major cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. The grand finale is scheduled for April 10th, where Offset will return to his roots, performing at the Coca-Cola Roxy in his hometown of Atlanta.

‘SET IT OFF’ is more than a phrase, it’s a vibe we’re creating together. This tour is not just a series of concerts, it’s a journey into my mind. I’m ready to hit the road on my first solo headlining tour, bringing the heat and most importantly, giving the fans a new way to experience my music,
Offset

Tickets are available starting Wednesday, January 24th via presales, while the general onsale begins Friday, January 26th at 10AM local time on LiveNation.com. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to witness Offset making history with his first solo headline tour.

Events

André 3000 Announces “New Blue Sun Live” Tour

SU Staff

Posted on Jan 24, 2024

Hip-hop icon and creative juggernaut, André 3000, has just announced a string of intimate live shows under the banner “New Blue Sun Live” Tour. This series of performances will be a direct offshoot of his critically acclaimed instrumental album, New Blue Sun, which was released last November by Epic Records. André 3000’s versatility is on full display in this album, which he co-produced with renowned multi-instrumentalist Carlos Niño.

New Blue Sun is a work of art that does not just play; it lives and breathes. Each track is an improvised aural organism, a collab between André and an illustrious lineup of musicians including Nate Mercereau, Surya Botofasina, Deantoni Parks, Diego Gaeta, Matthewdavid, V.C.R, Diego Gaeta, Jesse Peterson, and Mia Doi Todd.

The “New Blue Sun Live” tour is set to commence on January 29 at Brooklyn, NY, and then settles in for a three-night residency at Manhattan’s iconic Blue Note Jazz Club, where attendees will be treated to two shows per night. The tour’s waves will then ripple out to Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta, and San Francisco, before concluding with a five-night run at The Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever in Los Angeles.

For those ready to bask in the glow of the New Blue Sun, tickets go on sale on Wednesday, January 24 at 10am local time. Save the date, and prepare to embark on this unique musical journey. Check out the tour dates below…

ALL TOUR DATES:
January 29 @ Crown Hill Theatre – Brooklyn, NY
January 31 @ Blue Note Jazz Club – New York, NY (8:00pm show)
January 31 @ Blue Note Jazz Club – New York, NY (10:30pm show)
February 1 @ Blue Note Jazz Club – New York, NY (8:00pm show)
February 1 @ Blue Note Jazz Club – New York, NY (10:30pm show)
February 2 @ Blue Note Jazz Club – New York, NY (8:00pm show)
February 2 @ Blue Note Jazz Club – New York, NY (10:30pm show)
February 5 @ St. Ann & The Holy Trinity Church – Brooklyn, NY
February 6 @ St. Ann & The Holy Trinity Church – Brooklyn, NY
February 8 @ Cliff Bell’s – Detroit, MI
February 9 @ The Chapel at Masonic Temple – Detroit, MI (7:00pm show)
February 9 @ The Chapel at Masonic Temple – Detroit, MI (10:00pm show)
February 12 @ Thalia Hall – Chicago, IL
February 13 @ 1357 N Elston – Chicago, IL
February 15 @ Garfield Park Conservatory – Chicago, IL (7:00pm show)
February 15 @ Garfield Park Conservatory – Chicago, IL (9:00pm show)
February 20 @ Bimbo’s 365 Club – San Francisco, CA
February 22 @ Bimbo’s 365 Club – San Francisco, CA
February 24 @ The Independent – San Francisco, CA (7:00pm show)
February 24 @ The Independent – San Francisco, CA (9:00pm show)
February 27 @ Variety Playhouse – Atlanta, GA
February 28 @ Variety Playhouse – Atlanta, GA
February 29 @ Variety Playhouse – Atlanta, GA
March 2 @ Center Stage Theater – Atlanta, GA
March 5 @ The Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever – Los Angeles, CA
March 6 @ The Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever – Los Angeles, CA
March 7 @ The Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever – Los Angeles, CA
March 8 @ The Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever – Los Angeles, CA
March 9 @ The Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever – Los Angeles, CA

Marlon Wayans Ready to Shine in Jordan Peele-Produced Flick, “GOAT”

SU Staff

Posted on Jan 24, 2024

Marlon Wayans is all set to star in the upcoming horror flick “GOAT,” produced by none other than Jordan Peele, and backed by Monkeypaw Productions and Universal. Wayans took to Instagram with a vibrant post to announce this exciting news, originally reported by Deadline: “Here we go, y’all! Buckle up ’cause this gonna be one wild ride. GOAT, baby!”

Wayans wasn’t done yet, with a follow-up post quoting The Hollywood Reporter, “Oh man, I’ma tell you, be careful what you wish for ’cause it just might come true. Ain’t no time for excuses, y’all. Let’s get to work!” In “GOAT,” Wayans will play a soon-to-retire legendary athlete tasked with training an up-and-comer.

The film’s director, Justin Tipping, is known for his work on “Kicks” back in 2016. Further casting details remain to be revealed, so keep your eyes peeled.

Marlon Wayans, a veteran with over three decades in the entertainment industry, is praised for his consistently powerful performances. His recent roles include a deadbeat dad in the revamped “Fresh Prince” series, “Bel-Air,” and a college basketball coach in Ben Affleck’s “Air.” Over his illustrious career, Wayans has worked alongside industry titans like Tupac, Jared Leto, and Matt Damon.

While no official release date for “GOAT” has been announced yet, the anticipation is high. Wayans, represented by 3 Arts, WME, Vision PR, and Kevin Yorn and Ryan Goodell of Morris Yorn, is set to deliver another standout performance. Stay tuned—it’s gonna be a wild ride indeed!

Features

Niko Brim Talks New Project Hues Vol. 1 on Sway In The Morning

SU Staff

Posted on Jan 24, 2024

Niko Brim has been making waves in the hip hop industry, and with his new project HUES Vol.1, he offers his fans a fresh take on his lyrical prowess. Brim stopped by Sway in the Morning to promote HUES Vol.1, which was released exclusively on the EVEN platform. In this blog post, we will delve into Brim’s journey to success, his latest project HUES Vol.1, and EVEN’s direct-to-consumer platform.

Brim was born and raised in Mount Vernon, New York, and is the son of fashion stylist Misa Hylton. His musical journey began at a young age, where he was influenced by his parents’ eclectic taste in music. Brim’s storytelling abilities and lyrical mastery earned him collaborations with the likes of Cordae, Rapsody, and Domani.

Brim is also a savvy marketer and has been experimenting with various platforms to promote his music. His most recent project, HUES Vol.1, is a unique take on his lyrical prowess. Released exclusively on the EVEN platform, HUES Vol.1 gives fans an opportunity to buy directly from the artist. EVEN has been gaining traction among emerging artists, and Brim’s decision to release his project on the platform demonstrates his innovative marketing instincts.

Brim has released numerous singles and EPs throughout his career, but his latest release features two singles, “SOUTHSIDE SUNDAYZ” and “Marleys”. The album follows two other successful records he has previously released, “A Thousand Pictures: Book One” and “A Thousand Pictures: Book Two”. The release of HUES Vol. 1 shows that Brim is not afraid to experiment with his sound and artistic direction.

Even though Brim’s rise to success can be attributed to his talents as a rapper and his marketing acumen, he also acknowledges the importance of maintaining authenticity. When asked about his creative process, Brim commented, “I just like to make music that I want to make, to be honest. I don’t really care about radio or anything. I just want it to sound good, and to feel right.”

Niko Brim’s journey to success is a testament to his intimate relationship with music and his willingness to experiment with different platforms. His marketing prowess and lyrical mastery have earned him collaborations with some of the biggest names in the game, and his new project, HUES Vol.1, is a unique take on his artistry. With EVEN’s direct-to-consumer platform, Brim has demonstrated that he is innovative and forward-thinking when it comes to his music. We can’t wait to see what he has in store for the future.

Podcasts

Rap Dad’s Episode 2: From Ken Bennett to Taylor Bennett: A Generational Tale of Fatherhood Wisdom!

Esteban Serrano

Posted on Jan 22, 2024

In episode 2 of Rap Dads, we had the pleasure of riding along with Chicago’s very own, Taylor Bennett. In the comfort of the Rap Dads Sprinter, Taylor shared with us his journey through fatherhood and the profound ways it has impacted his life.

Taylor’s fatherhood journey is heavily influenced by the lessons he learned from his own father, the remarkable Ken Bennett. He reflected on the wisdom passed down from his father and how it has shaped his approach to fatherhood. Taylor emphasized that his primary mission as a father is to ensure his sons feel confident and comfortable expressing themselves freely.

Fatherhood, Taylor revealed, has had a profound impact on his perception of manhood. It has shaped and molded him, instilling a sense of responsibility and giving him a new perspective on life. This transformative journey is not only evident in his personal life but also transcends into his music.

Experience the full depth of this conversation by tuning into The Rap Dads Show podcast, available on all platforms! This episode offers a rich tapestry of insights into the life of a rap dad navigating the challenges and rewards of fatherhood. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of fatherhood, with Taylor Bennett as your guide.

Features

Ava DuVernay’s Groundbreaking Film ‘ORIGIN’: A Dive into History, Romance, and Resilience

SU Staff

Posted on Jan 22, 2024

Acclaimed filmmaker Ava DuVernay visits Sway In The Morning to promote her new film, ‘ORIGIN’, which hits theaters today. The film, both penned and directed by DuVernay, promises to be an intriguing exploration of history’s mysteries, the nuances of romance, and the fight for a better future.

‘ORIGIN’ delves into the global phenomenon of caste and its ominous influence on society. Through the journey of a journalist, who grapples with unthinkable personal loss while investigating this issue, the film uncovers the magnificence of human resilience. This biographical drama is not just a testament to DuVernay’s directorial prowess, but also offers an impactful commentary on societal norms and their effects.

The film finds its foundation in Isabel Wilkerson’s critically acclaimed book, ‘Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents’. Wilkerson’s work eloquently describes racism in the United States as an offshoot of a deeply entrenched caste system, providing the perfect canvas for DuVernay’s cinematic adaptation.

Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this thought-provoking piece of cinema. Ava DuVernay’s ‘ORIGIN’ is a compelling watch, enriched by its layered narrative and profound insights into long-standing societal structures. It’s more than just a film; it’s an invitation to engage with, understand, and question the world around us.

Music

Che Noir: Rising To New Heights With ‘The Color Chocolate Volume 1’

SU Staff

Posted on Jan 22, 2024

It’s a thrilling time in the music industry as we witness the emergence of extraordinary talents like Che Noir. As we step into 2024, Che Noir is kickstarting the year with the announcement of her EP, ‘The Color Chocolate Volume 1’, set to be released on the 26th of January.

This new project underscores Che Noir’s meteoric rise within the industry and her relentless pursuit of excellence. The EP features a host of dynamic collaborations with Evidence, Your Old Droog, Ransom, and Icecoldbishop, further showcasing her versatility as an artist.

The first single from the EP, “Junior High,” has already created a buzz amongst fans and critics. This track sees Che Noir teaming up with Evidence and Your Old Droog to deliver an impactful and conceptually cohesive piece. “Junior High” is a testament to the artists’ shared vision, presenting unique perspectives from each contributor. Che Noir herself expresses an immense satisfaction with the track, highlighting its impeccable assembly and suitability as the EP’s debut single.

But, ‘The Color Chocolate Volume 1‘ is just the tip of the iceberg for Che Noir’s ambitious 2024 plans. Constantly competing with herself, she strives for continuous growth and is excited to share more of her artistry with the world.

Get a taste of what’s to come by streaming the new single, Che Noir featuring Evidence & Your Old Droog “Junior High”. Remember, ‘The Color Chocolate Volume 1’ drops on 1-26-24. Stay tuned for a year filled with more from Che Noir!