British rapper Sway DaSafo has died at 44.
The news was announced in a Thursday, Sept. 17 Instagram post by the Music of Black Origin – or MOBO – Awards, which is an annual event celebrating Black music and culture where the artist, born Derek Safo, became the first unsigned act to win best hip-hop act in 2005.
"We’re deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sway," the caption read, alongside a throwback video of the artist accepting the award. "Sway will always hold a special place in MOBO history. In 2005, still independent and without a debut album released, he won Best Hip-Hop Act at the MOBO Awards, beating global heavyweights including 50 Cent and The Game.
"It was a huge moment. Not just for Sway, but for UK Hip Hop," the post continued.
"At a time when British rappers were still fighting to be recognised alongside their US counterparts, his win made a real statement about the talent, creativity and potential coming out of the UK."
It further highlighted DaSafo's legacy "as an artist and champion of British music," as well as his role in the MOBO organization as a whole.
The tribute concluded: "Our love and deepest condolences go out to his family, loved ones, friends and everyone who grew up with and was inspired by his music. Rest in peace, Sway. 🕊️❤️ #SwayDasafo"
USA TODAY reached out to MOBO for comment.
According to The Guardian, a close friend of DaSafo's said he died at his home in Ghana. An official cause of death was not revealed.
Sway DaSafo's upbringing, career explained
Born in North London to Ghanaian parents, DaSafo was known for his versatile hip-hop and rap music, as well as his work as a producer. He began his career with the groups Phynix Crew and One before pursuing a solo career.
Over his decades-long career, DaSafo released five studio albums and two EPs. His 2006 single "Little Derek" reached No. 30 on the U.K. Singles Chart and appeared on his debut album, "This Is My Demo," released that same year.
While continuing to release music under his own label, Dcypha Productions, DaSafo went on to partner with famed Senegalese-American artist Akon and his label Konvict Music. Akon was also featured on DaSafo's 2008 album "The Signature LP."
Additionally, DaSafo took on a series of acting roles over the years, appearing in the 2011 premiere of "Top Boy" and the 2012 film "The Grind" with Jamie Foreman, Danny John-Jules and Zoe Tapper.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: British rapper Sway DaSafo dies at 44
