Lakeyah isn’t easing into her new era, she’s owning it. With the release of “HERSKIII,” the Milwaukee rapper officially kicks off her chapter as an independent artist, backed by a distribution deal through Human Re Sources, founded by J. Erving. It’s more than just a single it’s a reset, a reintroduction, and a reminder of exactly who she is.
“HERSKIII” feels like confidence in real time. Letting the production guide her pen, Lakeyah locks into a sharp, effortless flow that sounds as natural as it is commanding. The beat hits raw and hard, and she meets it with precision, sliding through each bar with the kind of ease that only comes when an artist is fully secure in their identity
The energy is playful but calculated. Bold without trying too hard. She’s not asking for validation, she’s speaking from a place of self-awareness. “HERSKIII” is built on knowing you’re that one and moving accordingly.
Lakeyah shared that the record came together organically when producer JayUncut played the beat that instantly caught her attention. Trusting her instincts and her pen, she let the track shape itself, leaning into a space that felt both empowering and fun. That freedom is felt all over the song.
What makes “HERSKIII” stand out isn’t just the bars, it’s the timing. As Lakeyah steps into 2026 fully independent and in control of her creative direction, this single sets the tone for everything ahead. It embodies confidence, ownership, and the refusal to shrink.
Grammy-winning songwriter turned solo force Bee-B pulled up to Sway In The Morning for a must-watch conversation that fans won’t stop talking about. From her Compton upbringing to her bold decision to remain independent, Bee-B delivered transparency, humor, and undeniable talent in one unforgettable interview.
The Honest Truth: Why She Didn’t Sign to TDE
One of the biggest revelations? Bee-B finally addressed why she chose not to sign with Top Dawg Entertainment.
Despite real conversations with TDE president Punch, Bee-B explained that her vision required full creative control. For her, independence wasn’t about turning down opportunity — it was about protecting her artistry and building her brand on her own terms. The decision reflects a larger theme in her career: ownership, longevity, and authenticity over quick wins.
For artists navigating label deals versus independence, her insight alone makes this interview essential viewing.
From Compton Roots to Villain Era
Bee-B also opened up about her upbringing in Compton, painting vivid pictures of swap meet culture and the nostalgia that shaped her creative identity. That foundation plays directly into her new album, Villain Origin Story, a project that represents her stepping out from behind the curtain as a songwriter and into the spotlight as a fully realized artist.
After penning hits for stars like Summer Walker and John Legend, Bee-B is now telling her own story — unapologetically.
Inside the Industry: Chris Brown & Songwriting Gems
The gems didn’t stop there. Bee-B gave rare insight into Chris Brown’s relentless work ethic, breaking down what separates superstars from the rest. She also detailed her songwriting process — from emotional vulnerability to technical precision — showing exactly why she’s earned Grammy recognition.
And in true Sway fashion, the conversation balanced depth with humor. Bee-B even joked about dating men who don’t have basic home amenities — a moment that had the studio cracking up.
Flow State, Live on Air
The highlight? Bee-B entered her “flow state” and created a song live on air. No gimmicks. No ghostwriters. Just raw talent unfolding in real time. It was a masterclass in creativity and proof that her transition from songwriter to solo star is more than justified.
If you care about artistry, independence, and the real business behind the music industry, this is an episode you can’t miss.
Subscribe to Sway’s Universe for more exclusive interviews and watch the full conversation now.
Christian hip-hop heads, get ready. After years of anticipation, Believin’ Stephen has officially returned with his fifth studio album, The Suffering Servant, Pt. 2, released January 30th, 2026 via Gametime Recordings.
The new project serves as a powerful sequel to his 2010 release, The Suffering Servant, and follows his 2019 album Glory Thieves. For longtime supporters, this isn’t just another drop — it’s the continuation of a deeply personal and spiritually grounded journey that Stephen began over a decade ago.
A Sequel With Substance
On The Suffering Servant, Pt. 2, Believin’ Stephen leans fully into the tension between faith and hardship. Across 14 tracks, he tackles grief, perseverance, spiritual warfare, and unwavering devotion to Christ — all while sharpening his pen and flow.
Production comes courtesy of DJ Average Joe, K-Drama, The Apologist, and Dax Hamma, with DJ Average Joe playing a major role in shaping the album’s sonic direction. The soundscape balances boom-bap grit with polished, contemporary Christian rap textures, giving Stephen plenty of room to maneuver lyrically.
Standout Tracks That Hit the Soul
One of the album’s crown jewels is “Christ’s Heart.” Built on yet another standout DJ Average Joe production, the track serves as an open invitation to come to Christ — no matter your circumstances. It’s heartfelt without being preachy, convicting without being condemning. Stephen flows effortlessly, weaving in and out of the pocket with surgical precision. His cadence shifts feel intentional and controlled, showcasing veteran-level mic command.
Another undeniable highlight is “Swimming Upstream” featuring AnonymousRay. Over a hard-hitting DJ Average Joe beat, the two emcees trade bars with urgency and clarity. The chemistry is natural, and the verses cut deep, challenging listeners to stand firm in their faith even when culture pushes the other way. It’s the kind of record that makes you rewind just to catch the layered wordplay.
A Tracklist Built for Reflection
The 14-track offering includes:
Therapeutic ft. DJ Average Joe
Fallen World
Journey
Philly That City
Swimming Upstream ft. AnonymousRay
Grieving Today ft. Ant Coughlin
Why I Write
Suffer In Silence ft. Eric McCallister
Had A Friend
PJ’s Interlude
Refiner’s Fire ft. PJ Yurt
Christ’s Heart
Suffering Servant Part 3 (Agony Awaits)
Preparing For Suffering
Features from DJ Average Joe, AnonymousRay, Ant Coughlin, Eric McAllister, PJ Yurt, and Agony Awaits add texture without overshadowing the mission. Each guest complements Stephen’s vision rather than competing for attention.
While Glory Thieves established Believin’ Stephen as a thoughtful lyricist unafraid to wrestle with big themes, The Suffering Servant, Pt. 2 feels more refined and battle-tested. There’s maturity in both delivery and songwriting. The pain explored here isn’t theoretical — it’s lived-in.
From “Grieving Today” to “Preparing For Suffering,” the album doesn’t shy away from heavy topics. But even in its most sobering moments, hope remains central. That balance is what makes this project resonate beyond the typical Christian rap audience.
A Defining Moment in Christian Hip-Hop
In a genre that continues to grow and diversify, Believin’ Stephen reminds us why authenticity still wins. The Suffering Servant, Pt. 2 is bold, biblically rooted, and musically engaging. It’s not chasing trends — it’s setting a tone.
Five albums deep, Stephen sounds focused and fearless. This sequel isn’t just a nostalgic callback; it’s a statement piece. For fans of Christian rap and hip-hop looking for substance with sharp lyricism, this album deserves a front-to-back listen.
Believin’ Stephen isn’t just surviving — he’s thriving. And with The Suffering Servant, Pt. 2, he delivers one of the most compelling Christian rap releases of 2026 so far.
Multi-Grammy-nominated artist, songwriter, and producer Marcus “MarcLo” Lomax is entering a new era, this time front and center. With the release of “Interest,” MarcLo sets the tone for what feels like his most personal chapter yet. Bright, warm, and effortlessly groovy, the single is rooted in gratitude and grown-up love, showcasing an artist fully comfortable in his own voice.
Directed by Aaron Katter, the official video mirrors the song’s sincerity and ease. “Interest” was the first record created for MarcLo’s upcoming project, and it serves as the emotional anchor. Written as an ode to his partner, the track reflects on a transformative kind of love that changes you in ways you can’t quite repay, no matter how deeply you try.
Long respected behind the scenes, MarcLo’s musicianship has helped shape records for artists like Dua Lipa, Zedd, Miley Cyrus, Lil Wayne, and Elmiene. Now, he’s stepping forward with intention. Following a recent jam session with Justin Bieber and a strong co-sign from collaborator Teddy Swims, his momentum feels natural and right on time.
“Interest” builds on the foundation laid by “Marvel,” a performance-driven release that highlighted MarcLo’s deep musical roots. Channeling the lineage of Maxwell, D’Angelo, and Musiq Soulchild while existing in the same creative space as Leon Thomas, H.E.R., Daniel Caesar, Lucky Daye, Ty Dolla $ign, and Jacob Collier, MarcLo is crafting a sound that honors tradition without feeling nostalgic.
Imagine working your entire life for a specific dream, achieving it, and then losing it all in just 33 days. That is the reality Lanny Smith faced when a career-ending knee injury cut his NBA journey with the Sacramento Kings short. Yet, what seemed like the end was actually the beginning of a massive cultural movement. Today, Smith is the founder of Actively Black, a premium athleisure brand that has generated over $30 million in revenue in less than five years. Here is how he turned personal tragedy into a global powerhouse.
Turning Pain into Purpose
Lanny Smith’s story begins with a devastating pivot. After signing his first NBA contract in 2009, a collision with a teammate tore the articular cartilage in his knee just over a month later. Suddenly, he went from an NBA roster to living back home with his mother, battling depression and an identity crisis. Smith recalls asking himself, “Who am I without this game of basketball?” However, the discipline he learned as an athlete allowed him to transition into entrepreneurship. He realized that while his hoop dreams were over, his ability to impact the world was just beginning. 🌟
Defying the Odds with “Actively Black”
When Smith launched his brand in 2020, amidst the global pandemic and social unrest following the murder of George Floyd, he faced skepticism. Industry executives and peers warned him that naming a company “Actively Black” would limit his success and alienate consumers. Smith ignored the noise. He recognized a gap in the market: Black consumers spend billions annually on apparel but rarely own the brands they support. His goal was not to ask for a seat at the table, but to build his own table. By ignoring the pressure to assimilate and instead super-serving his niche audience, he created a brand that resonated deeply with a community hungry for representation.
Quality Over Everything: Securing Major Collaborations
One of Smith’s non-negotiables was excellence. He refused to let Actively Black be a brand where customers supported the mission but settled for inferior products. He invested heavily in premium fabrics and “cut and sew” manufacturing rather than printing on cheap blanks. This commitment to quality caught the eye of major players. A meeting with Daymond John, founder of FUBU, led to introductions that secured historic collaborations with Marvel’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the Muhammad Ali estate, and Bob Marley’s family. These entities saw that Actively Black could represent their legacies in a way no mainstream brand could.
Actively Black is more than just hoodies and leggings; it is a vehicle for economic empowerment. From hiring his mother—a former top computer programmer—to sourcing cotton from Black farmers for his “Harvest Collection,” Smith is dedicated to circulating wealth within the community. As Lanny Smith continues to scale this generational brand, he proves that greatness is indeed in the DNA of his community. If you are looking for inspiration to start your own journey or simply want to support a purpose-driven business, check out Actively Black and become part of the tribe.
Two young hyenas just stepped on the scene and turned the temperature all the way up.
Niko Brim taps in with La Reezy for a blazing remix of “Feel Us,” and the chemistry is undeniable. With production handled by none other than Khrysis, the foundation was already solid—but this link-up takes it to another level.
Shot on a cold pier outside of New York City, the visuals might scream winter, but the bars? Straight heat. Both artists trade verses with hunger, confidence, and that gritty edge you can’t fake. It’s that “we’re outside and we’ve got something to prove” energy—raw, focused, and unapologetic.
Khrysis laces the track with a head-nodding backdrop that lets both emcees flex without overcrowding the beat. Niko Brim sets the tone, and La Reezy slides in effortlessly, making this remix feel less like a feature and more like a statement.
If this is what the new wave sounds like, we’re paying attention.
Watch the full video below and keep your eyes on these two—because this won’t be the last time you hear their names.
Shaleah is stepping into her power and she’s doing it on her own terms. With “Right Back,” the Seattle-bred R&B artist delivers a smooth but firm anthem about knowing your worth and refusing to entertain old energy. The message is clear: once you’ve grown, there’s no spinning the block.
As the granddaughter of Bootsy Collins, Shaleah carries a legendary legacy, but she’s not leaning on history, she’s building her own future. Blending modern R&B textures with sharp, conversational storytelling, she creates music that feels personal yet universal. “Right Back” captures that calm confidence that comes when you’ve seen the pattern before and you’re no longer impressed.
Managed by Shawn Barron co-founder of EZMNY, Shaleah is carving out a lane that feels fearless and fresh. Her sound speaks directly to a new generation of women who move with intention, set boundaries without apology, and refuse to shrink for anyone.
There’s something effortlessly cool about the way she delivers the message. Vulnerable, but never soft. Honest, but never unsure. With a growing audience and undeniable presence, Shaleah Jean is proving that empowerment doesn’t have to be loud, sometimes it’s just about standing still and not going “right back.”
Fresh off the release of his latest project, Klassik Poet is keeping his foot on the gas. The rising lyricist just dropped a cinematic visual for “Body Language,” a standout record from his album Somewhere In The Grey Area—and it’s a whole vibe.
The video, directed, filmed, and edited by JIHVD, brings the track to life with moody aesthetics and sharp storytelling that matches the record’s emotional weight. Klassik Poet not only delivers on the mic—he also produced the track himself, with additional production from Quigs, giving the record a polished yet raw feel that hits different when paired with the visuals.
“Body Language” captures that unspoken tension—the glances, the energy, the moments that say everything without saying a word. The cinematic treatment elevates the experience, pulling viewers deeper into the grey area Klassik Poet navigates so effortlessly.
If you’ve been sleeping, this is your wake-up call. Press play, tap in, and let the visuals speak for themselves.
When hip-hop legends collide, history isn’t just retold; it is relived. In a monumental conversation on Sway’s Universe, the iconic Lord Finesse was joined by a surprise guest, the legendary DJ Premier, for a discussion that peeled back the layers of the Golden Era. From the serendipitous discovery of Finesse’s demo tape to the untold stories of The Notorious B.I.G.’s recording process, this interview served as a masterclass in rap history. 🎙️
The Wild Pitch Era and Guru’s Golden Ear
The story of Lord Finesse’s rise begins with Wild Pitch Records, a label that became the breeding ground for icons like Gang Starr, Main Source, and Chill Rob G. During the interview, DJ Premier called in to share the incredible story of how his late partner, Guru, actually discovered Lord Finesse. It wasn’t a corporate A&R decision; it was Guru digging through a shoebox of demos at the label owner’s house.
Premier recalled Guru telling him, “Yo, check this other guy out… his name is Lord Finesse.” Guru was meticulous about lyricism, specifically telling Premier to listen to the “compound words” and flow patterns. This discovery led to Finesse becoming the first artist Premier produced outside of Gang Starr. The bond was so tight that Premier would personally pick Finesse up in his Nissan truck for studio sessions, mentoring him through the recording process of his debut, Funky Technician.
The Truth About Biggie’s “Mental” Pen Game
One of the most compelling moments of the conversation revolved around The Notorious B.I.G. While many emcees claim to never write down their lyrics, Lord Finesse confirmed that with Biggie, it was the absolute truth. Finesse, known for his complex “compound punchlines,” admitted that he usually wrote his rhymes down because the thoughts were too intricate to lose. However, his experience with Biggie was different.
Finesse reminisced about studio sessions where Biggie’s fun-loving personality masked a serious work ethic. “He was a jokester… you ain’t even know you was in there making music,” Finesse explained. Yet, when the beat dropped, Biggie would step into the booth and execute flawlessly without a notepad in sight. Finesse noted, “I ain’t never seen him really write,” validating the long-standing legend of Biggie Smalls’ mental pen game. 👑
The “Lords” Rivalry: Finesse vs. Lords of the Underground
History often forgets the friction between artists, but Finesse opened up about a genuine rift he had with the group Lords of the Underground. The tension stemmed from branding confusion. With Finesse already established as “The Funky Man” and the “Lord,” the arrival of a group using “Lords” and “Funky” in their titles felt like a dismissal of his groundwork.
“I’m Lord Finesse… they Lords of the Underground. I’m the Funky Technician… they got ‘Return of the Funky Child,'” Finesse recounted. This led Finesse dropping a freestyle dissin Lords of the Underground that circulated globally. Fortunately, cooler heads prevailed. The beef was eventually squashed, culminating in a heartwarming moment where DoItAll from the group showed up to Finesse’s 40th birthday just to celebrate him, cementing a brotherhood that exists to this day.
The Lost Art of Organic Collaboration
Both Finesse and Premier lamented the current state of music production, specifically the trend of emailing beats rather than working in the studio. They reflected on the magic of D&D Studios, a hub where artists like M.O.P., Jay-Z, and Nas would cross paths naturally. It was this environment that allowed for organic collaborations that felt cohesive rather than forced.
Lord Finesse dropped a gem of an analogy regarding his production style: “I’m like a tailor. You know? I might have some suits made, but I got some new fabric in. Let me size this up for you.” This “tailor-made” approach to hip-hop—sitting with the artist, catching a vibe, and building the track from scratch—is what they believe is missing from today’s algorithm-driven music landscape.
As hip-hop continues to evolve, the stories from architects like Lord Finesse and DJ Premier become the blueprint for the next generation. Their insistence on authentic collaboration, lyrical sharpness, and respecting the culture’s roots serves as a reminder that great music isn’t just created; it’s crafted. For those in Los Angeles, don’t miss the chance to see history live as Lord Finesse performs for the first time ever in LA at the Regent Theater.
Jai’Len Josey returns with “Housewife,” a bold and magnetic new single that continues to define her as one of modern R&B’s most compelling storytellers. Known for her emotionally rich songwriting, the Atlanta native leans fully into her power here, blending playful confidence with intentional vulnerability to create a record that feels both cinematic and deeply personal.
Built on crisp handclaps, sweeping strings, and airy keys, “Housewife” feels luxurious yet grounded. Jai’Len’s voice shifts effortlessly between tender introspection and self-assured charm, embodying the emotional duality at the heart of the song. She doesn’t just sing about love, she reframes it, challenges it, and ultimately reclaims it.
At its core, “Housewife” is about redefining submission on a woman’s own terms. Jai’Len flips traditional narratives, rejecting the notion that women are meant to be displayed, possessed, or rewarded like trophies. Instead, she presents devotion as intentional and powerful a choice given freely, and only to someone worthy. The result is a track that feels modern, self-aware, and unapologetically in control.
The single began with Jai’Len shaping the production herself before enlisting Grammy Award-winning producer Noah Ehler, known for his work on “Luther” and GNX, to help elevate the record into the layered, polished masterpiece it is today. Together, they crafted a soundscape that mirrors the song’s message: lush, deliberate, and confidently composed.
