I’m really an underground rapper and heavily influenced by Africa because I grew up there and it was a whole different world.

With a win at the 2006 Honey Jam contest and songs in hot rotation across the airwaves, Cole has made an impact with both fans and insiders looking for Canada’s next big thing. Sway hooked up with the diva-in-training while recording in Toronto.

Drake has been nominated for a Best New Artist Grammy.

Women have always had a contentious relationship with hip-hop, riddled with many complexities and challenges. There seems to be a constant battle between each side to find a better way to understand each other, maintain mutual respect and ultimately co-exist happily and peacefully. Sounds just like you and your significant other, huh?

Shawn Carter is a legitimate icon. He’s been written and talked about expansively; there is virtually no original news about him unless he decides to reveal more about his life, as he does with his new book Decoded. So, instead of providing another revised bio of the man, I’ll offer a personal insight into pop culture’s fascination with Jay-Z and the hustler.

As a vocal member of the industry, Higgins offers his two cents on the multi-billion-dollar business and culture that’s changed the globe.

Soon after the fateful meeting, Estelle found herself in the studio with both Legend and West, going over the beats that would appear on her album. The duo were so impressed with her attitude and ability that Legend made Estelle the first artist signed to his new HomeSchool Records label. For Estelle, the opportunity to be signed to a U.S. label was exciting, but she did have her reservations.

Keri Hilson’s been a songwriter for the biggest names in R&B — now she’s joining them in the spotlight.

Speaking to me from his home in Toronto’s Beach neighbourhood, the 54-year-old Grammy- and Juno Award-winning singer/songwriter explains that his goal was to write about the truth of family relationships. In Hill’s case, this included his lifelong struggle to gain the praise of his late father and namesake, the larger than life Daniel Grafton Hill III, a scholar and activist often referred to as Canada’s father of human rights.

He raps from the gut. There’s a zealous hunger and energy in his voice. There are no gimmicks, no auto-tuned ballads or a well manicured-image. He makes quality music about ordinary life, and through poetry and cadence makes it fascinating and addictive to listen to. Sway spoke with him in the lead up to his December 3rd concert in Toronto.