Page 102 – Sway's Universe

Kevin Gates Unleashes Unfiltered Honesty on Sway In The Morning

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!

Books

Exploring Wellness and Fulfillment in Common’s “And Then We Rise”

SU Staff

Posted on Jan 22, 2024

From the dynamic arenas of music and acting to the introspective world of writing, Common has left a remarkable mark with his artistry and activism. Yet, it is in his latest book, And Then We Rise, that we see another dimension of this multi-award-winning artist: his voyage towards achieving wellness. In this compelling read, Common frames his narrative around the quadrilateral of health—nutrition, fitness, mental health, and spiritual well-being—sharing his personal experiences and the profound impact that dedicating himself to each aspect has had on his overall success.

“The Food” introduces us to the fundamental role nutrition plays in Common’s life. As readers, we get a glimpse of the dietary choices and philosophies that fuel a high-performing individual. “The Body” then transitions into the significance of physical fitness and how establishing a strong physical foundation is a form of self-respect and empowerment. When he broaches “The Mind”, Common gets candid about the often overlooked dimension of mental health, emphasizing its pivotal role in personal fulfillment.

Finally, “The Soul” addresses the spiritual journey, which for Common, seems to be the culmination of his holistic approach to health. It is not merely about religious faith but the deeper understanding of one’s place in the universe and the pursuit of inner peace.

What makes And Then We Rise resonate is Common’s acknowledgment that he doesn’t navigate this journey alone. He introduces us to the experts who have helped shape his wellness journey—his nutritionist and chef, his physical trainer, his therapist, and his spiritual mentors. Common becomes a relatable guide, reminding us that seeking professional expertise and community support is a brave and crucial step toward becoming our best selves.

Through And Then We Rise, Common extends an invitation to his readers to engage with their own wellness journeys, making it clear that the road to fulfillment is multifaceted and deeply personal, but most importantly, universally attainable.

BUY HERE

Events

Celebrating Fab Week: A Tribute to the Bay Area Legend, Mistah FAB

SU Staff

Posted on Jan 22, 2024

Mistah FAB has carved a niche all his own and has become a veritable legend in Oakland, his influence echoing the likes of Nipsey Hussle in Compton and Trae The Truth in Houston. His vibrant work in the Bay Area has not only awarded him a special spot in the hearts of the locals, but has also earned him a dedicated mural in his hometown – a testament of his significant contributions.

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As we approach Fab’s birthday we prep for another Fab Week, a gala filled with celebrity-packed events, we reflect on Mistah FAB’s poignant description of the festivities: A jubilant symphony where Voices of the Village unite, rejoicing and celebrating the vibrant spirit of Oakland, California.

Mark your calendars, because Fab Week commences on Monday, January 22nd, and the revelry continues through January 28th. Wondering what’s on the agenda? Here’s a glimpse into the week’s scheduled events:

January 22: Know Your Lane Celebrity Bowling, hosted by Too $hort & Gary Payton. Grab your tickets here.
January 23: Dope Era Comedy Show, featuring Haha Davis and hosted by Lewis Belt. Secure your spot here.
January 24: BayTL Skate Night with DJ Esco mixing up the tunes. Don’t miss out – get your tickets here.
January 25: Remember The Nights Concert, featuring 3XKrazy, The Delinquents, Dru Down, Black C & The Team. Reserve your place now.
January 26: Black Designers Fashion Show. Buy tickets here.
January 27: Dope Era Car Show – get your tickets here followed by the Sneaker Prom tickets available here.
January 28: Start the day with Big Facts Brunch with Baby Jade, Big Bank & DJ Scream tickets here, and wrap it up with the Celebrity Basketball Game tickets here.

Join us in honoring the legacy of Mistah FAB during this fabulous week of celebration, unity, and undeniably, the vibrant spirit of Oakland.