Jay Pharoah on “Laughing Forward,” Impressions, and the Art of Comedy

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Comedy fans, you’re in for a treat! Jay Pharoah, known for his razor-sharp impressions and electrifying energy, sat down with Sway to talk about his latest project, “Laughing Forward”, and his journey as one of the most multi-dimensional entertainers in the industry. From his impressive body transformation to shining a spotlight on rising comedians, Jay brings a mix of humor, insight, and inspiration to the table. Let’s dive into the highlights of the conversation!

Laughing Forward: A Spotlight on Rising Comedians

Jay Pharoah’s new series, “Laughing Forward,” is all about giving up-and-coming comedians their moment to shine. The show, available on Amazon, Apple, and other VOD platforms, features a stellar cast of fresh talent, including Kristen Seville, Nico White, AJ Foster, and Alex Babbitt. Jay revealed how he personally selected these comedians, having witnessed their growth over the years.

“I’ve seen these folks start from the bottom, and now they’re killing it,” Jay shared. “I wanted to make sure we put a spotlight on them. The energy and the laughs are unmatched!”

  • Nico White: A New York-based comedian with sharp wit and undeniable charisma.
  • Kristen Seville: A rising star bringing a fresh perspective to comedy.
  • AJ Foster: Jay’s road companion and a powerhouse of humor.
  • Alex Babbitt: Another NYC talent making waves in the stand-up world.

With a veteran-meets-newcomer format, “Laughing Forward” delivers not just laughs but also a celebration of mentorship and growth in comedy. Jay insists, “Our episode might just be the best one!”

A Career Built on Versatility

From his days on Saturday Night Live to his voice work on hit shows like Family Guy, Bojack Horseman, and Invincible, Jay’s resume is as packed as his gym routine. Speaking of which, Jay’s recent physical transformation has fans buzzing. When asked about his new physique, Jay hilariously credited protein shakes, creatine, and a “Hollywood rabbit diet” for getting him action-movie ready.

“Sex sells, baby!” Jay joked, before adding that his dedication to fitness was inspired by preparing for an upcoming action film featuring another big-name star. “I saw his workout routine, and I said, ‘I won’t have it!’ So, I hit the gym hard.”

Unparalleled Impressions: A Pharoah Specialty

Jay’s ability to slip seamlessly into character is legendary. During the interview, he gave spot-on impressions of Will Smith, Denzel Washington, TI, and even Martin Lawrence. His impersonation of Denzel left the room in stitches: “I like 100% natural. Whole Foods breast, that’s what I like!”

When asked about his secret to nailing impressions, Jay remarked, “It’s all about studying the person—their mannerisms, tone, and vibe. You have to get lost in the character.” This dedication has made Jay a standout in the comedy world, proving that his talent goes beyond simply mimicking voices.

The Impact of Mentorship and Legacy

Jay paid heartfelt tribute to the late Charlie Murphy, who played a pivotal role in his career. “Charlie saw something in me when I was just 19,” Jay recalled. “He put me on the road and gave me opportunities that changed my life. I’ll never forget that.” Now, Jay is paying it forward with “Laughing Forward,” ensuring that the next generation of comedians gets their shot.

Staying Relevant in a Rapidly Changing Industry

In a time when artificial intelligence is making waves in entertainment, Jay humorously claimed, “I was the first AI!” He referred to his 2021 project, “Spittin Image,” where he rapped as himself and various iconic artists. “Now AI is everywhere, but I was the blueprint!” Jay’s adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges have been key to his enduring success.

When asked about the secret to his longevity, Jay emphasized the importance of staying unpredictable. “You don’t have to limit yourself to one thing. Look at Jamie Foxx or Keke Palmer—they’ve shown you can excel in multiple areas as long as you put in the work.”

What’s Next for Jay Pharoah?

Jay has no plans of slowing down. In addition to “Laughing Forward,” he’s working on new music, including a collaboration with DJ Whoo Kid, and gearing up for more projects in both comedy and film. Plus, he teased an epic appearance on Sway’s “Five Fingers of Death,” promising to freestyle in five different characters!

Jay Pharoah’s journey is a testament to hard work, versatility, and paying it forward. From his iconic impressions to his commitment to uplifting new talent, Jay remains one of the most dynamic entertainers of our time. Don’t miss his new series “Laughing Forward” on Amazon, Apple, and other streaming platforms. And if you’re a fan of comedy, keep an eye on Jay—he’s just getting started!

What’s your favorite Jay Pharoah impression, or what do you think about his new series? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 😊

Garage Series: Jagged Edge, Honey Bxby, Josh Levi and Joe Leone

Catch the vibe from start to finish. The Garage Series recap is streaming now—press play and experience it all, exclusively.

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Did you miss the latest Sway’s Universe Garage Series? Don’t worry—now’s your chance to catch all the unforgettable moments. The exclusive full recap is here, and if you love raw, unfiltered music and legendary vibes, you owe it to yourself to watch every second. Hosted by the dynamic trio Sway, Heather B, and Tracy G, this recap lets you relive the magic and see the best of what the Garage Series has to offer—anytime you want.

Whether you’re a dedicated fan of Sway’s Universe or just discovering the scene, this recap is your all-access pass to the energy and authenticity that makes the Garage Series truly standout. Here’s why you need to press play on the recap right now.

Experience Music, Unfiltered and Up Close

Forget the overblown stage effects and scripted performances—the Garage Series recap strips everything down to the essentials: pure talent, passionate artists, and an intimate setting. This is your front-row ticket to stunning performances and genuine artist-to-fan connections, all captured with nothing between you and the music.

Spotlight Performances You Can’t Miss

Joe Leone

Newcomer Joe Leone fresh off tour with October London, Ro James and Tamar Braxton makes his debut at the Garage Series with some serious vocals.

Josh Levi

Let Josh Levi sweep you away with his compelling vocals and modern R&B twist. His Garage Series performance is a must-watch for any music fan searching for authenticity and soul.

Honey Bxby

Feel the electricity as Honey Bxby brings her trademark sensuality and powerhouse voice front and center. Her set is pure energy and unforgettable presence, best experienced in the full recap.

Jagged Edge

It’s not every day you see iconic acts like Jagged Edge perform in such an intimate setting. Their harmonies and classic hits are just as powerful today as ever—hit play and get swept back in time.

The music, the energy, the realness—everything you love about Sway’s Universe Garage Series is waiting for you in this exclusive recap. Drop your email below for a chance to win tickets to the next Garage Series!

Heather B’s Karaoke Night Turns Into a Star Showcase!

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Get ready for an unforgettable night as “Sway In The Morning” presents an epic karaoke event turned star showcase! 🎉 Hosted by Heather B, Sway and Tracy G, this SiriusXM celebration brings incredible talents to the stage, including show-stopping performances by Melanie Fiona, Nali, and Jai’Len Josie. Watch as the crowd gets hyped for surprise karaoke moments, soulful renditions, and inspiring new music, all while celebrating community and artistry. From laugh-out-loud karaoke antics to heartfelt live sets, this video is packed with energy, authenticity, and pure entertainment.

Don’t miss exclusive interviews and uplifting moments with featured artists as they share their journeys, inspirations, and advice for aspiring creatives. Be part of the Sway’s Universe family by subscribing for more iconic performances, heartfelt conversations, and music that moves the culture forward. Tune in, vibe out, and join the celebration!

Nali

Jai’Len Josie

Melanie Fiona

Check out the full Happy Hour Karaoke Night with all the moments you missed.

Jon Keith Releases Single “Wont Fly” A Raw Reflection Of His Inner Battle.

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Rising genre-defier Jon Keith shakes things up with his latest single, WON’T FLY. This isn’t just another drop—it’s a soul-stirring moment that floats between soundscapes while taking you on emotional rollercoaster .

On WON’T FLY, Jon Keith invites listeners into a vulnerable space, where honesty hits hard embracing catchy melodies. His lyrics don’t hide behind metaphors—they cut deep, wrestling with the need to be understood while battling the inner storms that try to keep him grounded.

The track marks the third release from his upcoming project GROW WINGS, an album that promises to document a bold transformation—equal parts spiritual, emotional, and raw. With each release, Jon continues to prove he’s not just experimenting with sound—he’s redefining what it means to create from a place of truth. If you’re not a fan already-now is the time to catch on! Pre-Save Jon Keith’s “Grow Wings” album HERE

H-Money Teams Up with Ne-Yo and Rotimi for A Caribbean Twist Track “Sweet Gurl”

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H-Money, Ne-Yo, and Rotimi came together for a summer anthem that’s delivering smooth vibes and island flavor. Their new single, “Sweet Gurl,” is a steamy R&B groove laced with a Caribbean twist — the kind of track that instantly makes you want to roll the windows down, hit the beach, or slide into vacation mode. This collab feels like pure chemistry, with each artist bringing their own signature style to the table.

H-Money sets the tone with polished production and undeniable bounce, laying the perfect foundation for Ne-Yo’s undeniable vocals and Rotimi’s melodic pitch. Ne-Yo, the king of smooth R&B, glides across the beat with effortless emotion, while Rotimi sprinkles in his Afro-Caribbean essence to give the track its unique global appeal. Together, they deliver a song that feels sexy, laid-back, and made for the warm weather.

Ready to hit the dancefloor, “Sweet Gurl” is a reminder that R&B is alive, evolving, and ready to take over the season—especially when legends link up to create magic. Be sure to stream this banger out now on all DSP’s.

The Clipse Return with “So Be It”- First Visual Off Long-Awaited Album “Let God Sort Them Out”

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It’s official—The Clipse are back. After a 16-year hiatus, the iconic Virginia duo just dropped the visual for “So Be It,” the lead single off their highly anticipated reunion album, Let God Sort Them Out, scheduled to drop July 11th. For real hip-hop heads, this moment is monumental. The streets have been quiet without a proper Clipse project since 2009, and the culture has been craving that raw, luxury street poetry only they can deliver and MASTER.

Pusha T, who’s been consistently applying pressure solo, hasn’t missed a step. Meanwhile, his brother Malice (now re-emerging as No Malice) has been on a spiritual journey, stepping back from rap entirely—until now. And together the chemistry feels like were back in the 2000’s.

Their comeback started with “A.C.E. Trumpets,” a Pharrell-produced banger that instantly transported fans back to that Lord Willin’ and Hell Hath No Fury era. The beats are nostalgic with a modern feel, the bars cut deep, and the vibe is undeniably vintage Clipse—only elevated. With Pharrell back behind the boards, it feels like hip-hop’s elite just picked up right where they left off.

Visually, “So Be It” is a cinematic testament to duality—street grit meets spiritual reflection. Malice’s growth is evident in his delivery, while Pusha still slices through beats with precision making sure you hear every bar. This isn’t just a comeback—it’s a reset.

Let God Sort Them Out is more than an album—it’s a cultural moment. And the Clipse are doubling down with the Let God Sort Them Out Tour kicking off August 2025- Grab Your Tickets HERE

From Snowfall to Formula 1: Damson Idris on Racing, Representation, and Rising to Stardom

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Imagine going head-to-head with one of Hollywood’s most legendary actors, Brad Pitt, in a movie that combines the thrill of Formula 1 with a powerful story of teamwork and heart. That’s exactly what Damson Idris brings to the table in the highly anticipated film, F1: The Movie. 🚗💨 In a recent interview on Sway In The Morning, Idris opened up about his journey, the challenges of filming, and what it means to represent a new generation of global movie stars. Let’s dive in! 🌟

Damson Idris Meets Brad Pitt: A Clash of Titans

Working alongside Brad Pitt was undoubtedly a career milestone for Idris. “Brad Pitt, man. That dude is iconic and legendary,” Idris reflected, acknowledging the daunting task of sharing scenes with such a commanding figure. Yet, Idris didn’t just hold his own—he thrived. 🏆 “Some actors command a scene, and it’s hard to do that next to someone like Brad. But I knew I had to step up, and I’m proud of what we achieved together.”

The chemistry between Idris and Pitt is palpable in the film, and their dynamic elevates what could have been just another racing movie into an emotional and gripping blockbuster. Idris’ passion for his craft shone through, as he described this project as “the biggest moment in my career so far.”

From Formula 1 Cars to the Met Gala

Idris didn’t just act the part—he lived it. The actor shared the grueling preparation involved in filming the high-octane racing scenes. “We did all the driving for real. Me and Brad trained for about four months, and it was intense! I drove at speeds of up to 180 miles per hour,” he revealed. 🏎️🔥

But the excitement didn’t stop there. Idris made waves when he arrived at the Met Gala in a Formula 1 car, complete with a helmet and all. “We practiced that helmet pose so many times in my hotel room,” he joked, proving that the glamour of Hollywood comes with its own set of challenges. The payoff? A moment that screamed “big movie star behavior” and captivated fans worldwide.

Racing Beyond the Track: The Heart of F1

At its core, F1: The Movie is about more than just racing. Idris emphasized the film’s deeper themes: “Life is a race, and it’s about overcoming adversity, working as a team, and never giving up.” The story follows an underdog team navigating the world of Formula 1, and its message resonates far beyond the racetrack.

“It’s a movie full of heart,” Idris said. “You can watch it with your family, friends, or even a date. It’s the kind of film that brings people together, just like the classics we grew up with.” With a production timeline spanning two years, the film is a labor of love, packed with emotional depth and exhilarating action.

The Responsibility of Representation

For Idris, this film isn’t just about personal success—it’s about representation. He credited Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, an executive producer on the project, for pushing for diversity within the sport and beyond. “Hamilton wants this movie to represent how the world of Formula 1 should look,” Idris explained, highlighting the importance of breaking barriers in traditionally exclusive spaces.

Idris also touched on the challenges of rising to stardom while staying grounded. “We need to stop shooting people down while they’re on their way up,” he said passionately. “The whole reason I became an actor was because of people like Will Smith, Denzel Washington, and Sidney Poitier. If we don’t support the rising stars now, who will our kids look up to?”

What’s Next for Damson Idris?

As the buzz around F1: The Movie grows, Idris is already being touted as a contender for other iconic roles, including a potential stint in the Marvel universe. While he remains tight-lipped on those possibilities, one thing is clear: Damson Idris is just getting started. 🎬

When asked how he balances the weight of his growing fame with staying true to his roots, Idris said, “Every door I knock down, I’m letting more people through. It’s all about responsibility—making my community and my family proud.”

Damson Idris is redefining what it means to be a modern movie star. From mastering high-speed Formula 1 cars to sharing the screen with Brad Pitt, he’s proving that passion, talent, and a commitment to representation can take you to incredible heights. As Idris himself says, “You’ve got to keep moving, keep evolving, and keep growing.”

What are you most excited to see in F1: The Movie? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to catch this groundbreaking film when it hits theaters on June 27. 🏁✨

Joey Bada$$, Westside Gunn, Stove God Cooks and Rome Streetz Link Up on Statik’s New Heat “The Louvre”

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What is hip-hop missing? Bring back that classic posse cut energy. The legendary producer pulled up with a heavy line-up for his latest single “The Louvre” — featuring Joey Bada$$, Westside Gunn, Stove God Cooks, and Rome Streetz. Out now on all streaming platforms via Mass Appeal, this track is the perfect warm-up for what’s to come.

Serving as the first drop off his upcoming album Expensive Taste, Statik also let the visuals fly — and yes, he really flew out to Paris to shoot at the actual Louvre. “This one sets the tone,” Statik says. “The whole project is about elevated taste — from food to fashion to music.”

Expensive Taste is shaping up to be a high-level blend of OGs and new era spitters, pairing top-tier production with raw bars and real presence.

“The Louvre” also drops right after Mass Appeal announced Legend Has It…, a rollout that includes upcoming projects from icons like Nas & DJ Premier, Mobb Deep, Ghostface Killah, and more. Hip-hop’s legacy is in good hands — and this is just the beginning. Check out this fly visual bridging raw energy and bar for bar. The Louvre is also available HERE on all DSP’s

Oakland’s Ian Kelly & DJ D Sharp Drop Powerful New EP “Concrete Ocean”- A Deep Dive into Growth, Grit & Oakland Soul

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Oakland’s own Ian Kelly and Golden State Warriors’ official DJ and producer DJ D Sharp link again for a new project that hits deeper than just bars and beats. Concrete Ocean, their brand-new collaborative EP, is out now and packed with raw stories, elevated production, and real Oakland soul.

The project brings together a heavy lineup of features including Bay Area mainstay IamSu!, Brownie Blendz, Kate Lamont, Dreebo, and trusted collaborators Roux Shankle and SundaY. Together, they create a soundscape that’s as honest as it is powerful—a journey of self-awareness, resilience, and hometown pride.

“This whole project is personal,” says Ian Kelly. “The title Concrete Ocean comes from my experience growing up in Oakland. It’s inspired by the Big Five personality traits—how we move through the world as real people with real struggles. It’s not textbook; it’s lived.”

While the tracks don’t name each trait outright, the energy throughout the EP reflects those core elements—openness, growth, pressure, vulnerability, and survival. Concrete stands for the grit and toughness that comes with navigating hard realities. Ocean speaks to emotional depth, adaptability, and the waves we all ride trying to stay afloat. Take a deep dive and get into this EP available now on DSP’S HERE

Introducing: Audio Affect — A Transformative 3-Day Music Production Workshop

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Calling all producers, beatmakers, and sonic architects! Elevate your craft this summer at Audio Affect, an immersive 3-day production workshop happening July 25th–27th in the heart of Inglewood.

This exclusive experience offers hands-on mentorship from some of the most respected names in the game — Grammy-winning producer DJ Khalil, funk legend DāM-FunK, and the genre-bending sound innovator Iman Omari. Whether you’re refining your sound, building better arrangements, or mastering your mix, you’ll be guided by some of the best to ever do it.

Backed by the prestigious 1500 or Nothin’ Sound Academy, this program is more than just a workshop — it’s a launchpad. Attendees will dive into professional-level curriculum tailored to sharpen technical skills, boost creativity, and build industry-ready production workflows.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up, Audio Affect is the perfect opportunity to expand your network, get direct feedback from legends, and truly push your sound to the next level.

Space is limited — don’t miss your chance to be part of this one-of-a-kind producer experience. APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN UNTIL JUNE 15TH–11:59PM PST SIGN UP HERE