Pioneering rapper who mentored Ed Sheeran dies at 44

North London rapper Sway DaSafo, real name Derek Andrew Safo, has died at 44, Complex reports. No cause of death was disclosed. Kream Developments, a UK car customization company that said it stayed in frequent contact with the artist, announced the news in an Instagram statement, describing him as a “personal friend, a true legend and pioneer in the UK rap game,” adding that DaSafo had recently shared struggles with health issues. British rapper Wretch 32 also paid tribute online. DaSafo made history in 2005 as the first unsigned rapper to win a Music of Black Origin award for Best Hip Hop, released his debut album in 2006, mentored Ed Sheeran early, and is survived by two sons and two daughters.