SiriusXM’s Sway in the Morning has long been a cornerstone of hip-hop culture, offering insightful interviews and exclusive performances from some of the industry’s most influential voices.
After more than 14 years of broadcasting live from New York, the show made its highly anticipated move to Los Angeles, marking the occasion with a special live event at the SiriusXM LA studios. The night was a celebration of music, culture, and the undeniable influence of Sway Calloway, who has become a trusted voice in the industry.
Date: Wednesday, March 19
Location: SiriusXM Los Angeles Studios
Hosts: Sway Calloway & Heather B
Special Guests: Tracy G, Amanda Reifer, Alex Isley, Estelle, and Lucky Daye
DJ: DJ HED
(Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images for SiriusXM)
The evening featured a dynamic lineup of live performances and candid interviews, creating a vibrant and memorable experience.
• Estelle: The British singer-songwriter and Grammy Award winner brought nostalgic energy to the stage with a performance of her iconic hit American Boy as well as Come Over. Her smooth vocals and commanding stage presence had the crowd engaged, making her set one of the highlights of the evening.
(Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images for SiriusXM)
• Alex Isley: The daughter of Isley Brothers’ Ernie Isley showcased her own artistry with soulful renditions of Into Orbit and Hands. Her ethereal vocals and jazz-infused R&B sound created an intimate and emotional atmosphere, captivating the audience with her effortless performance.
(Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images for SiriusXM)
• Amanda Reifer: Hailing from Barbados, Reifer—who has collaborated with Kendrick Lamar and toured with Rihanna—delivered a powerful set. Her Caribbean influence, combined with contemporary R&B, brought a refreshing energy to the night, highlighting her rising star power.
(Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images for SiriusXM)
• Lucky Daye: Though he didn’t perform, his interview was a standout moment. The R&B singer, known for his chart-topping hits and Grammy wins, shared insights into his creative process and recent projects. His charisma and openness added a personal touch, making the conversation feel authentic and engaging.
. (Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images for SiriusXM)
DJ HED’s Set
Los Angeles native DJ HED kept the crowd hyped with a curated selection of tracks that perfectly complemented the performances. His smooth transitions and sharp mixing skills helped maintain the event’s lively energy throughout the night.
Atmosphere and Production
The SiriusXM LA studios provided an intimate yet sleek setting for the event. The lighting and acoustics were well-balanced, creating an inviting ambiance without overshadowing the performances. The studio’s modern aesthetic, paired with the vibrant energy of the artists and audience, made for a memorable evening.
(Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images for SiriusXM)
Final Thoughts
The Sway in the Morning LA launch was a fitting celebration of the show’s expansion. The combination of live performances, engaging interviews, and DJ HED’s seamless mixes created a well-rounded and entertaining event. Sway Calloway and Heather B’s natural chemistry and genuine passion for the culture shone through, making the audience feel like they were part of something special.