South-Central LA’s rising star JUN is back with a new single + visual to her latest single Vanish, a track that radiates self-confidence and undeniable energy. Blending her melodic voice with a fun, bouncy beat, JUN creates a vibe that’s perfect for dancing, cruising, and feeling yourself. This record is more than just a song it’s wrapped in a sound that feels unapologetically fun. The visual is shot and edited by TenFifty who creates undeniable art and storytelling. JUN’s ability to mix relatable themes with a vibe you can’t help but move to makes Vanish a standout track you’ll have on repeat. Don’t sleep on this one—it’s a certified vibe! Stream VANISH and stay connected with JUN HERE
LovelyOcean drops her new single, “Can’t Get You,” and it’s a heartfelt vibe! The conscious, free-spirited rapper from Monrovia, CA, is all about bringing a fresh perspective to hip-hop, and this track dives deep into the emotions of a complicated love story. With her expressive delivery and unique style, LovelyOcean is carving out her own lane in the game. If you’re into raw, honest lyrics with a soulful twist, “Can’t Get You” is definitely worth a spin!
Nigerian rapper Xavier Top Floor dropped the music video for his track “Won’t Change,” straight off his project Hackers 3- and it’s a vibe! He’s coming in hot with a fun, bouncy flow that rides perfectly over a wavy beat. The production was cooked up by Xavier himself alongside Wyatt Woodley. It’s got that fresh, chill energy that makes you wanna bob your head. If you’re into new-gen hip-hop with a smooth laid-back vibe, this one’s worth a listen! Xavier Top Floor is owning his lane in HipHop and won’t stop till’ he reaches the top. With major music placements from Apple Music, The Ebro Show, Sirius XM + more he’s motivated to stay on his journey and run his race. Stay connected with Xavier Top Floor and take a deeper dive into his artistry. STAY CONNECTED HERE
It is always magic when the Big Horse and 183rd link up. Harlem’s own Nym Lo just dropped a light six-pack off for the streets. And you know it is official when you get the intro from Sway himself! Check out the Sway In The Morning freestyle below that it originated from.
The project is fully produced by 183rd, who is undoubtedly one of the hottest producers out right now. Benny The Butcher laid a monster verse on “Off The Hustle”. The only other feature is Trip Jefe makes an appearance on “Lost Souls”. This project is fire and should be in rotation. Listen below.
Rapsody drops an insane freestyle and discusses her Grammy nomination on Sway In The Morning! The talented MC opens up about her journey in hip-hop, the importance of authenticity, and navigating the music industry.
Watch as Rapsody delivers hard-hitting bars and shares insights on personal branding, marketing, and staying true to herself. She also talks about her new label venture and future projects. Don’t miss this powerful conversation with one of hip-hop’s truest voices.
Sway and the team celebrate Rapsody’s success and discuss the challenges faced by artists in today’s music landscape. Subscribe to Sway’s Universe for more exclusive interviews and freestyles with the biggest names in hip-hop and entertainment.
Jon Hope, artist and educator, delivers a powerful and introspective track with “Paint The Moon,” produced by Grammy-winning producer Bongo By The Way. Featured on his latest album, “High Hopes,” this song is a lyrical masterpiece that dives deep into life’s struggles and the spirit of perseverance. The melodic vocals of Lisa Bello complement Hope’s sharp wordplay, creating a raw, emotional connection with his listeners. For fans of conscious hip-hop and authentic storytelling, this record is a testament to the power of resilience and the beauty of overcoming. If you appreciate real lyricism and soul-stirring artistry, “Paint The Moon” is a must-listen.
Jon Hope is a breath of fresh air in hip-hop, blending his talent as a master storyteller with a genuine passion for the culture. STAY CONNECTED HERE+ follow his journey to witness the rise of a storyteller shaping the next wave of hip-hop.
NURD a rising artist from Leimert Park, CA, is making waves in the R&B scene with her fresh take on neo-soul vibes. Her music is all about feel-good energy, and she’s carving out her own lane with authenticity and grace. Her latest single, “Don’t Gotta Do Much” is a soulful anthem about embracing who you are, owning your journey, and finding confidence in your place in life. With her smooth vocals and undeniable presence, NURD is bringing a relatable and refreshing sound to the Crenshaw District. Could she be the next songstress coming out of this iconic area? Stay tuned, because NURD is just getting started. Be sure to follow her on all socials everything @NEOSOULNURD PHOTO CREDIT: Leila Leverette @leilamloves
Ab-Soul just dropped a powerful new visual featuring Lupe Fiasco, Punch, and the late Doe Burger, delivering a deeply meaningful message that resonates with hip-hop heads and his core fanbase. The video serves as both a thought-provoking statement and a heartfelt tribute to Doe Burger, who tragically passed away in 2021. With sharp lyricism, cinematic visuals, and a reflective tone, this release underscores the importance of legacy, unity, and the repetitive message of wanting “PEACE”. Ab-Soul and his collaborators turn this track into more than music—it’s a moment of introspection and respect for a fallen brother. A must-watch for anyone tuned into the soul of hip-hop.
From Tragedy to Triumph: Karega Bailey shares his powerful journey of transforming grief into love and purpose on Sway In The Morning. After losing his brother to gun violence and experiencing the heartbreaking loss of his firstborn daughter, Bailey discovered how grief became a gateway to deeper love and understanding.
In this moving conversation with Sway, the social emotional healing practitioner and award-winning educator reveals how these profound losses shaped his mission to help others heal. Bailey discusses his work as a grief coach, the founding of the Soul Development movement, and how writing “Soul Affirmations” became a tool for collective healing.
Watch as Bailey opens up about choosing love over revenge, the birth of his daughter Kamali, and his innovative approach to mental wellness in the Black community. This raw, honest discussion explores how tragedy can transform into triumph through the power of radical gentleness and purposeful living.
Excitement is mounting as fans prepare for the release of The Fire Inside, the highly anticipated biographical sports film that marks an impressive directorial debut for Rachel Morrison. Slated to hit U.S. screens on December 25, 2024, courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios, the film shines a spotlight on the awe-inspiring story of American professional boxer Claressa “THE GWOAT” Shields and her path to athletic greatness. Ya’ll know Claressa is family to Sway’s Universe so be sure to read below and check out the trailer before the movie comes out over Christmas.
At the heart of The Fire Inside is Shields’ remarkable rise to stardom as she trains for the 2012 Summer Olympics, where she made history by becoming the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing. Shields’ triumph is a tale of resilience and determination, and Rachel Morrison, known for her vivid cinematographic work on films like Black Panther and Mudbound, steps into the director’s chair for the first time with this deeply personal story.
Leading the cast is Ryan Destiny, who takes on the challenging role of Shields with both grit and grace as she brings the Olympic champion’s struggles and successes to life. Destiny’s performance is one to watch, as she navigates the intensity of Shields’ discipline and the weight of her ambition. Adding further depth to the narrative is Brian Tyree Henry, whose portrayal of a key figure in Shields’ life promises to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
The Fire Inside premiered in the prestigious Special Presentations section at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2024. Early reactions from critics describe the movie as an inspiring tribute not only to Shields but also to the spirit of perseverance in the face of adversity. Morrison’s direction and the powerful performances are already being heralded as some of the film’s standout qualities.
The movie arrives at a time when biographical sports dramas continue to captivate audiences worldwide, offering a deeper look at the human stories behind athletic greatness. Claressa Shields’ legacy as both a pioneer in women’s boxing and a cultural icon for those chasing big dreams promises to resonate with viewers from all walks of life.
Whether you’re a boxing fan, a lover of inspiring true stories, or someone looking for a movie with heart and purpose, The Fire Inside is shaping up to be a must-watch title this holiday season. Mark your calendars for December 25, 2024, and prepare to be moved by this cinematic celebration of resilience, tenacity, and triumph.
