Sway Calloway: A Trailblazing Icon in Hip-Hop Culture and MTV News
Sway Calloway, a visionary radio personality, record producer, and hip-hop artist, has been a driving force in music news for over a decade. As a stalwart member of the MTV News team, he has been at the forefront of some of the most pivotal moments in music history.
Sway's journey began in Oakland, California, where he and his partner King Tech captivated audiences with their breakdancing and rap performances. Recognizing Sway's keen ear for great sound and his ability to spot emerging talent, Interscope Records enlisted him and Tech to produce the album "This or That," featuring an impressive roster of artists, including Eminem, KRS-One, and RZA from the Wu-Tang Clan.
As the key correspondent for MTV's Choose or Lose campaign and the newly launched Power of '12 campaign, Sway has interviewed a wide range of political leaders, including Republican National Committee Chair Ed Gillespie, Hillary Clinton, Ron Paul, John McCain, and Mitch Romney. The 2008 presidential campaign presented Sway with numerous opportunities to sit down with President Barack Obama, whom he interviewed four times. In 2012, Sway and MTV captured another memorable moment with President Obama, garnering millions of viewers.
Sway's impressive resume also includes the "All Eyes" series, which featured top artists like Kanye West and 50 Cent, as well as the "MTV News Now: Jay-Z vs. Nas: Beats, Battles & Beef" and "MTV News Presents: After the Storm" specials. He has also been instrumental in the creation of the highly anticipated yearly Hottest MC's list.
As an integral part of MTV News' live-event coverage, Sway has played a key role in the annual MTV Video Music Awards, Grammy pre-show, and European Music Awards (EMA). In addition to his work on MTV News, Sway serves as an MTV Executive Producer, bringing innovative programming ideas to the station. He also hosts the weekly MTV Radio syndication show, which airs in over 50 cities across the country.
Sway's influence extends beyond the music industry, as he has been involved in various panels and discussions on important issues like Hate Crimes, Racism, and Education. He continues to be a respected voice in the nation and community, hosting and moderating events that spark meaningful conversations.
In his spare time, Sway can be heard on Sirius XM's popular morning show, "Sway in the Morning," on the Shade45 channel, entertaining his loyal listeners, known as the "Citizens," from 8am-12pm (est.)
