Page 111 – Sway's Universe

MTV Launches Pioneering Digital Series: The MTV Effect

Posted on Nov 21, 2023

MTV today disclosed its innovative digital series, The MTV Effect, a five-part exploration into the profound influence MTV and Hip Hop have exerted on global culture. Hosted and co-executive produced by Dometi Pongo, the series is set to premiere on Wednesday, November 22nd at 4pm ET/PT.

MTV has been instrumental in bringing Hip Hop to the forefront of global entertainment, celebrating its unique identity and bridging the gap between artists and audiences. In honor of Hip Hop History Month and the genre’s 50th anniversary, The MTV Effect pays tribute to this dynamic relationship, delving into the archives and interviewing artists, creatives, and tastemakers from different eras.

Written and produced by Sunni Anderson and co-executive produced by Sway, the series narrates the intertwined story of MTV and Hip Hop in an engaging, captivating style. Each 6-8 minute segment features Hip Hop icons such as XZIBIT, Lola Brooke, MC Lyte, and Sway, amalgamating interviews and archival footage to chart the evolution of the industry.

“These video essays are kind of like our love letter to Hip Hop. It just so happened that MTV was there, front and center for so many of these cultural touchstones. Telling these stories through the MTV lens underscores how Hip Hop’s impact transcended far beyond the music,” said Pongo.

Sway, reflecting on MTV’s contributions, highlighted, “MTV News gave birth to most of the things you see that’s happening right now and the way people format and do their shows. MTV News’ impact on and contribution to Hip Hop — it’s unmatched, unprecedented, and to this day has not been duplicated.”

Each episode aims to cover a specific topic, starting on Nov. 22 with ‘Hip Hop In Your Living Room’, followed by ‘Women MCs Challenge the Status Quo’, ‘The Cultural Crossover’, ‘The Art of the VJ’, and culminating on Dec. 20 with ‘The Revolution Will Be Televised’. Stay tuned as The MTV Effect promises to be a captivating journey through the annals of Hip Hop history.

Features

E-40 Talks ‘Rule of Thumb’ Album Series & ‘Goon With The Spoon’ Cookbook with Snoop Dogg

SU Staff

Posted on Nov 20, 2023

E-40, the legendary rapper and entrepreneur, has set the hip-hop community ablaze with the announcement of his upcoming album, Rule of Thumb. The album series features collaborations with a plethora of talented artists including NBA Youngboy, Gucci Mane, Too $hort, Larry June, Mistah F.A.B. and several others. During his appearance on Sway In The Morning, E-40 gave us a sneak peek into what to expect from the new album, and also shared some exciting news about his upcoming cookbook release with Snoop Dogg.

E-40’s Rule of Thumb – Rule 1, the first installment of the album series. With a lineup of such talented collaborators, fans are eager to get their hands on the new music. E-40 revealed during the interview that the album features a mix of party and introspective tracks, each one showcasing his signature flow and scintillating lyricism.

Aside from his new album, E-40 is branching out into the culinary world. He has teamed up with Snoop Dogg to release “Goon With The Spoon,” a cookbook that features his favorite recipes. In the interview, E-40 jokingly compared cooking to making music, saying that both require chemistry and the right ingredients to produce a great end product. Fans can expect to see some of E-40’s favorite comfort food recipes in the cookbook, which is slated for release later this year.

2023 marks the 30-year anniversary of E-40’s debut studio album, Federal, that catapulted him into the spotlight. He reminisced about his early days in the music industry and how far he’s come since then. He also shared that he had his childhood street in Vallejo, California renamed in his honor known as “E-40 Way.” E-40 expressed his gratitude to his fans and the city of Vallejo for their unwavering support throughout his career.

In addition to the street renaming, E-40 received a proclamation from Vallejo mayor Robert McConnell to designate October 21, 2023, as “E-40 Day” in recognition of his contributions to the city’s culture and music scene. To top it all off, E-40 received the key to the city of Vallejo as the 2nd recipient in the city’s 173-year history. It’s clear that E-40’s legacy extends well beyond the music industry.

E-40’s Rule of Thumb album series and his upcoming cookbook release with Snoop Dogg have generated a buzz among hip-hop fans and foodies alike. E-40 remains a force to be reckoned with in the industry, and it’s evident that his talent and influence have earned him the respect and admiration of his fellow artists, fans, and hometown of Vallejo. With the release of Rule of Thumb – Rule 1 on the horizon, it’s safe to say that E-40’s legacy is more vibrant than ever.

Features

October London’s Technicolor EP: A Soulful Journey

SU Staff

Posted on Nov 20, 2023

October London, the soulful singer and songwriter, recently talked about his latest EP, Technicolor, on Sway In The Morning. With his smooth and heartfelt vocals, October makes listeners feel like they’re transported back in time, reminiscent of R&B greats like Marvin Gaye and Al Green. In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into October London’s Technicolor EP and also learn more about his journey as an artist.

In the interview with Sway In The Morning, October London discussed his latest EP, Technicolor. The five-track EP features a perfect blend of soulful and contemporary R&B sounds. Released earlier this year, October dedicates the EP to Black women and Black love. With songs like “Right Here All Along” and “Summer Rain,” Technicolor is a journey of love, joy, and heartbreak. It’s an EP that fans of old-school soul and R&B will absolutely adore.

Apart from Technicolor, October London also talks about his previous work. He mentions his single “Back To Your Place,” which spent 11 weeks on the R&B Chart. London also talks about his album The Rebirth Of Marvin, which peaked at #1 on the R&B iTunes Chart. With four Soul Train nominations to his name, October’s talent is unquestionable, and his music is proof of that.

In the interview, October London also mentions his journey into the music industry. He explains how he got signed to Death Row Records via Snoop Dogg. London’s music is authentic and straightforward, and he’s not afraid to speak his mind. He’s a rare talent who brings something new to the industry.

And the best part? October London is scheduled to go on tour in 2024. After a long wait due to the pandemic, fans can finally experience October London’s music live on stage. With his electrifying performances and soulful vocals, it’s no surprise that fans are anxiously waiting for his upcoming shows.

October London’s Technicolor EP is a masterpiece that showcases his unique talent and creativity as a singer and songwriter. With its soulful and contemporary sound, it’s a must-listen for anyone who loves old-school R&B blended with modern sensibilities. London’s journey into the music industry is fascinating, and his artistry is both refreshing and authentic. We can’t wait to see what he has in store next, and we look forward to listening to his upcoming tour in 2024.

Books

Laws of Annihilation (Martyr Maker, 3) By Eriq LaSalle: A Gripping Thriller That Keeps You on the Edge

SU Staff

Posted on Nov 18, 2023

Eriq La Salle, renowned for his acting prowess in productions like ER, Coming to America, and Logan, has carved a niche for himself in the realm of crime fiction. His latest offering, “Laws of Annihilation,” the third book in the Martyr Maker series, is testimony to his narrative skill.

Set against the backdrop of a sweltering New York City summer, “Laws of Annihilation” dives into an escalating conflict between the Hasidic and Black communities after a tragic incident claims the life of a Black teenager. The tension reaches a fever pitch when two rabbis are brutally killed at their synagogue, an act that seems like retribution.

The city teeters on the brink of a full-scale war amid the mounting body count and rising temperatures. Amidst this chaos, the dreams of Agent Janet Maclin, aspiring to be the FBI’s first female director, crumble as she receives disheartening news. However, Maclin’s resolve remains unbroken; she is determined to assist NYPD detectives Quincy Cavanaugh and Phee Freeman in hunting down the rabbis’ killer and stemming the tide of hate crimes.

La Salle has skillfully woven a tale marked by relentless action, unexpected twists, and a palpable sense of suspense that will keep readers hooked till the last page. It is his mastery of the genre, honed while directing and executive producing episodes of popular crime shows like Law & Order, Law and Order SVU, Law & Order: Organized Crime, CSI: NY, and Chicago PD with Dick Wolf, that truly shines through in “Laws of Annihilation”. This book is a must-read for every thriller enthusiast.

BUY HERE

SWAY IN THE MORNING

Regis Prograis Talks About His Upcoming Fight with Devin Haney on Sway in the Morning

SU Staff

Posted on Nov 18, 2023

Regis Prograis is a powerhouse in the world of boxing. The two-time WBC super-lightweight champion has recently called into the popular radio show Sway in the Morning, to talk about his upcoming fight with Devin Haney. This fight has been highly anticipated by boxing fans around the world, and Prograis was able to shed some light on what we can expect to see on December 9 at the Chase Center in San Francisco.

Haney is no stranger to the world of boxing. He is the current undisputed super-lightweight champion, and he is moving up from 135lbs to take on Prograis. Haney is a modern-day legend, having successfully defended his crown twice since winning it in Australia in June 2022. Prograis, on the other hand, is a seasoned fighter who has successfully defended his WBC title before. He won the belt when he knocked out Jose Zepeda in the 11th round of their match in Carson, California.

Regis Prograis is known for his aggressive fighting style and knockout power. He went on Sway in the Morning to talk about his upcoming fight with Haney, and he expressed confidence in his ability to win. Prograis says that he wants to win the fight by knocking Haney out in the middle of the ring. He also stated that he has been training hard for this fight, and he is in the best shape of his life.

When asked about how he plans to approach the fight, Prograis said that he will be looking to impose his will on Haney early on. He wants to take control of the fight and force Haney to fight at his pace. Prograis also said that he is not intimidated by Haney’s impressive track record in the ring. He believes that he has what it takes to beat Haney and take the crown for himself.

The upcoming fight between Prograis and Haney promises to be an exciting one. Both fighters are skilled, talented, and hungry for the win. Prograis, with his aggressive fighting style and knockout power, is sure to give Haney a tough time in the ring. Fans of boxing will not want to miss this match, which is set to take place on December 9 at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Stay tuned for more updates on this epic battle between two boxing legends.

Features

Sampha’s Reflective New Album “Lahai” Explores Human Connection

SU Staff

Posted on Nov 17, 2023

British singer, songwriter, and musician, Sampha recently stopped by Sway In The Morning to talk about his latest album, “Lahai”. The album revolves around Sampha’s reflections on human connection, inspired by his own experiences as a son who lost his parents and is now a father.

“Lahai” is Sampha’s first release in over six years. The album is named after his paternal grandfather. According to Sampha, the album is a tribute to his grandfather, who he never met but was told a lot about while growing up. The album showcases Sampha’s exploration of orchestral jungle and technical sophistication while maintaining his signature gossamer vocals. The album’s themes revolve around love, loss, grief, and the joys of fatherhood.

“Can’t Go Back” and “Spirit 2.0” are two other standout tracks from the album. “Can’t Go Back” explores the idea of nostalgia and how it can hold us back from moving forward in life. Meanwhile, “Spirit 2.0” is a spiritual and rhythmic track that examines the power of the human spirit and the resilience it provides in the face of adversity.

Sampha’s talent has not gone unnoticed, as he received a Grammy nomination as a featured artist and songwriter on Kendrick Lamar’s “Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers.” His live performances are equally captivating, with his unique blend of electronic and acoustic music, stunning visuals, and soulful vocals.

Tour Dates:
For those lucky enough to catch Sampha live, his tour dates are as follows:
November 11 – Howard Theatre, Washington D.C (Sold Out)
November 12 – Howard Theatre, Washington D.C (Sold Out)
November 13 – Franklin Music Hall, Philadelphia, PA
November 15 – The Eastern, Atlanta, GA
December 4 – Theater Des Westens, Berlin, DE (Sold Out)
December 5 – Royal Theatre Carré, Amsterdam, NL (Sold Out)
December 7 – Cirque d’Hiver, Paris, FR

Sampha’s “Lahai” is a beautiful and reflective album that explores themes of love, loss, grief, and human connection. With his signature falsetto, Sampha’s music is both haunting and uplifting, resonating with audiences across the globe. His live performances are equally captivating, and fans lucky enough to catch him on tour will undoubtedly be in for a treat. Sampha’s “Lahai” is a must-listen for music lovers who value introspective and thought-provoking music.

Entertainment

Kamaiyah Announces New LP ‘Another Summer Night’ and Drops New Video for “Groupies”

SU Staff

Posted on Nov 17, 2023

Oakland’s very own, Kamaiyah is back with a brand new single and video for “Groupies.” But that’s not all! Kamaiyah has also announced her upcoming album, Another Summer Night, set to be released on November 24th, 2023. Along with the announcement, she’s also unveiled some exciting features on the album, including Jay Worthy and 03 Greedo.

First up, let’s talk about the new single and video. “Groupies” is classic Kamaiyah, with her confident vocals laid over a funky beat. The video, directed by Kevin Johnson, features Kamaiyah and her squad living their best lives in a luxurious mansion. The theme of the song is all about Kamaiyah’s success and the groupies who come along with it. As with all of Kamaiyah’s music, “Groupies” is fun, energetic, and full of personality.

Now, on to Another Summer Night. Kamaiyah’s debut album, A Good Night in the Ghetto, was a critical success, earning praise for its authentic and unfiltered portrayal of life in Oakland. Another Summer Night promises to be just as raw and real, with Kamaiyah’s signature swagger and charismatic flow on full display. The album is named after a classic Oakland event, the summer night block party, and pays tribute to her roots in the city. In addition to Jay Worthy and 03 Greedo, Another Summer Night will also feature production from Mike & Keys, CT Beats, and more.

Kamaiyah herself has said that Another Summer Night is her most personal project to date, and fans can expect to hear a lot more about her life and experiences on the album. She’s also teased that the project will feature some unexpected collaborations, so be prepared for some surprises.

Kamaiyah is one of the most exciting voices in hip hop right now, and the release of “Groupies” and the announcement of Another Summer Night has only added fuel to the fire. With her unique style and undeniable talent, Kamaiyah is poised to take over the game, and we can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next. In the meantime, we’ll be blasting “Groupies” on repeat and counting down the days until November 24th.

Events

Two Nights of Hip Hop Legend KRS-One at S.O.B.’s

SU Staff

Posted on Nov 17, 2023

Get ready for two nights of the legendary KRS-One at S.O.B.’s, coming to you on November 29th and 30th, 2023. On the first night, KRS-One will be presenting a lecture on Hip Hop & History, followed by a live concert on the second night featuring special guests Zay Rambo, The Dowe Twins, Rayza, Hakim Green, Arnstar, and more. This two-night event is not to be missed by anyone who loves hip hop and wants to learn about the history and culture behind it.

BKRS-One has been associated with the S.O.B.’s stage since the 1980s, performing regularly and building a long-time friendship with the venue. He is known for iconic hits like “Sound of da Police,” “Love’s Gonna Getcha,” and “My Philosophy,” and has been dubbed the “conscience of Hip Hop” by Rolling Stone and the “spokesperson for Hip Hop” by the Wall Street Journal. In fact, in 1996, he founded the “Temple of Hip Hop,” a collective dedicated to the documentation and education of Hip Hop’s history, impact, and legacy.

On the first night of the event, KRS-One will be presenting a lecture titled Hip Hop & History. He has always been an advocate for the education and preservation of hip hop’s culture and history, so this is the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about the genre. The lecture will cover the history of hip hop, from its beginnings in the Bronx to its global impact today. Attendees will also learn about the 5 elements of hip hop and how each one contributes to its culture. This is a unique opportunity to hear from a true hip hop pioneer and learn about the culture from someone who lived it.

On the second night, get ready for a live concert experience like no other. KRS-One will be joined by special guests Zay Rambo, The Dowe Twins, Rayza, Hakim Green, Arnstar and more. This will be a high-energy show featuring classic hits and new music from some of the most talented hip hop artists around. S.O.B.’s is known for its intimate setting, which means that this will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these artists up close and personal.

Ticket information is available on the S.O.B.’s website, so be sure to grab your tickets early. This event is sure to sell out, and you don’t want to miss the chance to see KRS-One and friends in action. Whether you’re a die-hard hip hop fan or just looking for a unique and cultural experience, this event is not to be missed.

Entertainment

Rah Swish’s Latest Single “I Am Not Human” Sheds Light on the Dirty Side of The Music Industry

SU Staff

Posted on Nov 17, 2023

After taking a short break from the rap scene, Rah Swish has returned with a powerful new single, “I Am Not Human.” In this track, the Brooklyn-based rapper takes on some of the darker parts of the music industry, exploring relationships, fame, and the loss of loved ones. Rah’s signature flow is as sharp as ever, and his lyrics are both deep and provocative. “I Am Not Human” is a track that demands attention, and one that will keep you thinking long after the music has stopped.

Rah Swish begins the track by exploring the complex and often transactional nature of the relationships within the music industry. He raps: “Once you’ve earned your stripes, they start to use you. They don’t even check in on you, no mutual relations here. Old pals become new pals, new pals become BFFs…” These lyrics capture the idea that success in the music industry often means sacrificing genuine connections in favor of business partnerships. It’s a reality that many artists face, and Rah Swish doesn’t shy away from it.

In the second verse of the track, Rah explores the pain of losing loved ones and feeling disconnected from the world around him. He raps: “I lost a couple of soldiers to these streets. Lost touch with my family, only family is the team.” These lyrics speak to the isolation that can come with fame, as well as the challenges that come with navigating difficult relationships and losses. It’s a raw and emotional moment in the song, and one that is sure to resonate with Rah’s fans.

Music

Lil Crix Drops Scorching New Single and Music Video “Iced Tea”

SU Staff

Posted on Nov 17, 2023

Florida rapper Lil Crix has been making waves in the music industry lately and his latest single “Iced Tea” is no exception. With a laidback flow and head-nodding beat, Lil Crix effortlessly glides on the track and delivers a memorable performance. He’s signed to Kodak Black’s label Vulture Love/Capitol Records, and is quickly becoming a household name. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Lil Crix’s incredible rise to fame and what makes his latest single and music video so captivating.

Hailing from Lauderhill, FL, Lil Crix has been rapping for just a short period of time, but his talent is unquestionable. He caught Kodak Black’s attention after just one month of rapping and his tracks have already amassed millions of streams. Lil Crix has been making a name for himself in the Florida rap scene, and recently set the stage on fire at Spotify’s highly anticipated “Most Necessary” show in Miami.