Elonb
I first met Brian when he was in his mid teens (he was a friend of my sister) - whenever he came to my house he would always show a keen interest in my records. He remained a cheerful, good natured person who was always pleased to see old friends and glad to meet new people. His passing is a great, great loss. My thoughts go out to his family.
james aka jim
I did not no dj swing in person, but I read alot of great things about the chap and friends who worked with him over the years. To fight what he has had for such a long time, cred to swing for hanging in there to try and make things work. Hard man with in. God bless and to all that new him, ie close, beyound and the out siders.
Rosie Jones
Only knew you for a short time. Your beautiful fun loving presence, is dearly missed. xxx
Fredi Kruga
A great friend and a great man. Im blessed to have had him as a dear friend but even more blessed to have been given the chance to actually say goodbye personally. He will be deeply missed..........we may have lost a friend but we just gained another Angel. RIP
Zaidah
My sincere condolences and prayers go out to DJ Swing's family and friends. May his soul rest in eternal bliss. God bless
Bella
I didnt really know much about Swing, but on hearing that he needed a donor whilst listening to 1xtra on carnival day, I heard his story. I went to give blood the following week and handed in my bone marrow card - now although I fainted several times I would just like to thank Swing and ACLTfor opening up my eyes to a plight I didnt even know existed.
DJ GS
Im crying my eyes out writing this and im gonna miss you man. Brother i truly thank you 4 what you taught me and am greatful for your knowledge. Remember we were gonna battle (I WOULD HAVE WON - NOT). Im that stupid white boy who is gonna make what you showed me COUNT. I promise i wont let you down. Rest in peace my friend and my hero. I LOVE YOU
When i join you im coming for your title so be ready man!!!
PEACE
Moohadeen Aka X
The guy was a talented DJ and always gave off great energy.In an industry full of egos and superficial nonsense he was always genuine,sincere and humble. Peace & Luv always bruh
Stevie G
One Love to DJ Swing from everyone in Cork in Ireland. Thanks for all the gigs you did here over the years, thanks for all the tunes you sent me, but above all thanks for that smile!
You are gonna be sadly missed not just by the hip-hop and r&b people here and beyond, but by everyone, because that smile was as infectious as the music!
And that's saying something
"Rock on, Swing, rock, rock, rock on'
Our thought srae with your family and friends
RIP
DJ COOKIE, leicester
One of the greatest djs to grace uk radio for me was dj swing. it's amazing what he did with the boogie bunch in the late 80s and the whole of the 90s with dodge, brian norman, rampage, shorty blitz. i was hooked by his skills on the ones and twos. he was no lazy dj like many u get today. i think that is what i'm gonna miss - the wizardry on the decks, technique and his so called party blends. DJ SWING R.I.P
Paul H - Hip-Hop Connection
Right back from Boogie Bunch days Swing was always up for any pics I wanted to take for the mag - always smiling and friendly and stayed that way through his struggle, even recent times when I've seen him - at DMC, KRS1, Bboy champs always smiling, that's how I picture him in my mind. A strong guy who will be sorely missed.
Paul Njie Scotland Radio Presenter/ DJ
A true gent and one hell of a DJ. I booked him to do a gig in Glasgow and he missed his flight from Manchester, DJ Swing took a taxi from Manchester all the way to Glasgow, no DJ would do that and he rocked the club what a night. You're enthusiasm and passion for music rubbed off on me and has made me the dj Iam today. My condolences go out to his family, may he rest in peace. A true star.
DJ Scandelous
I never met Brian/Swing and he would not know me, however being a fellow DJ and also fighting Cancer my heart goes out to both Swing and all his family and those who knew him well at this difficult time.
DJ Lonan
RIP DJ SWING
He was a regular club-filler in (my local) belfast club Thompson's, guesting nearly every month. A great act to go an see. Anyone who heard him will know that he was so original when DJing, not afraid to break the mould and play something different, and he was an inspiration to any aspiring DJ that heard him, including myself.
INSTINKT
I remember raving at Twice as Nice @ colloseum to DJ Swing, he was one of the heaviest DJ's & always knew how to rock a party! he lives on in our memories
R.I.P Cous
KILO
A great man with much wisdom on music, he was the best DJ i ever met with a great personality and manners, he would always stop and great you with kindess and respect, he will be missed!! my thoughts are with his family & may god bless him in the here after!!! what a loss to the music world!!! may he be rememebered as the pied piper of DJ's
bethan
all ya'll old people saying how he touched you guys and you used to go out raving to him- I'm only 18 and i saw him dj twice last year and he really was a true inspiration he was so different to the commercial dj's I'm used to hearing up here in Newcastle and luckily i got the chance to tell him what an inspiration he was to me- he will be sorely missed by all who he touched
dj dappa
i met dj swing for the first time in november last year, this guy walk into my shop and was listening to records. We just struck up a natural conversation about music and all things related,up until this point i never knew this was dj swing. Honestly in a short time talking to this guy i could really see he was a humble, warm inteligent guy who's passion for music and people was genuine. I remember in the early 90's seeing his name on many a flyer, unfortunately i never got the chance to see Swing in action.
Lastly maximum respect goes out to all the people that tried to help save swing by donating blood. Please continue to spread the message of donating u still maybe able to help one of your fellow brothers and sisters.....r.i.p dj swing. it truely was a pleasure to meet you.
toussaint davy
DJ Swing was a giant among the international DJ fraternity.
It was a sincere privilege and pleasure to know him and it is with a heavy heart that I type this.
I remember how much fun he had when he was approached in 1999 to do a tour of Taiwan, which I also accompanied him on. Not only did he rip the country's clubs apart with his deft DJ skills but what always set him apart from the crowd was his ability to get the party started right. The guy could have released his own rap records such was his silkiness with similies and metaphors on the mic!
He was one person that I'll always remember having a cheeky smile on his face.
I pray and know that he is now in a far less painful place.
My thoughts and love go out to his family and children. May he rest in peace.
Paula Hutchinson
A good guy with a passion for music and life itself. I will remember his smile and how he faced his illness with a fight. My prayers are with his children, his family and his dear and devoted friends. May his soul rest in peace.x
1Xtra DJ - Manny Norte
Don't even know where to start, but i'll start by saying he was one of the best that ever did it in the UK, period.
An inspiration to many people, let alone the dj's. A guy who had a real presence about him anywhere he went, always making people laugh and feel good.
A DJ not afraid to do and try new things whether it be playing a brand new tune in a dance in the MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT or saying something out of the ordinary or even bringng a sound effects box to use in the west end!
I was resident at two legendary clubs in London, Rotation in Subterrania, now known as Neighbourhood and Camouflage in Complex which is now knocked down, but Carling Academy is there now in Islington, North London. He used to literally tear these clubs apart EVERYTIME! One time i remember he played the reply to "No Scrubs" by TLC which was "No pigeons" BY Sporty Theives, the guy brought out on stage a LOAF OF BREAD FOR THE GIRLS! I HAVE SEEN NO ONE DO SOMETHING LIKE THAT SINCE!!
I could go on all day about the memories of our boy DJ Swing beacause there's so many crazy stories you could say, I know Rampage, Jason, Seani B from 1xta all feel me!
He was a close and dear friend to me and trust me when i say i wouldn't be here now if it wasn't for him.
BIG UP THE BOOGIE BUNCH CREW EVERYTIME AND MAY DJ SWING REST IN PEACE, AND MAY HIS FAMILY AND REAL FRIENDS ALL REMEMBER THE GREAT LIFE HE HAD.....
Hitesh Vora
Where can I begin, this guy was a gentleman and an inspiration to anyone who was interested in RnB, Swing and Urban Music. I first met him when he was working at RCA. He made my day so enjoyable, and made me feel at ease, introducing me to as many people as possible. The industry has lost a very talented man. Our thoughts go to his family and friends.
Wisen up all, it is important more is done to research and invest into cures for this illness.
God Bless!
Dee
I would like to say it was an honour to have known such a lovely man as Brian. My mates, sisters and myself use to always be shaking a foot at the BB raves. He was such a funny man..he use to come round to my house and have my whole family laughing till we could laugh no more. He will be sadly missed. Let this be a lesson to all of us...giving blood is a 5 minute thing to do...5 minutes we can all spare. May Go bless his soul. And may God help his family through this time.
DJ Iyare, 1Xtra
I only ever worked with DJ Swing the once. We were on an overnight club date, he was a pro and when the gig was done it was time to have fun and Swing made a point of making sure every one in the group had fun even the accountant. That's how I'll remember Swing as the life of the party. I wish I'd gotten to know you better son, rest in peace.
Lady Linh
i had the privilege to meet and work with Brian 7 yrs ago. What a great person to know.
Condolences to the Family, especially his little boys.
i.m just gutted that I didnt get to see him as i live in the states now.
But i know he is in a better place with no worries. I love you B. dont party to hard up there.
peace
Daniel Azure - Urban Control Records
I have known Brian since 1990, when Boogie Bunch and Rampage were some what sound rivals. He always brought a comedic life and energy to the party and that was the secret to his personality because he spread that into everyone that came his way including me. I remember when he was moving jobs from Tommy Boy club promotions to BMG club promotions around '98 I bumped into him outside the BMG office in London, Fulham, and he was skooling me about some of the indepth politics and rules involved in breaking an urban record back then in the UK on a major. He was like an older brother with Crazy DJ Skills and outstanding street to corporate knowledge in the music business. Our last meeting was at Burgess Park last year '05 where he was was supporting the anti racism campaign as a DJ and he was still a bundle of laughs...Swing from all your boys and girls that used to rave with you since Fridge Days and the debut release of Mary J Bliges single "You Remind Me taken from the Strictly Business film soundtrack...You will be deeply MISSED!!!
Wall Street Records
DJ Swing is and has been a major driving force in everything we have aspired to be in the 'music arena' (i.e. the vibe, the energy and skill). Since the days of Boogie Bunch to his acclaimed MOBO Award and way into the afterlife, you will always be in our hearts and minds.
Much Luv, We Salute You.
Charles aka 'C Dolla!', Noble aka Mista Switch.
G Money
I first met Swing when he was working at Tommy Boy and as an up and coming DJ, he was one of the DJ's that a street cat like myself looked up to. I expected him to be that egotistical "uptown" DJ, that I would hate and the fact that he kept me waiting because he was late didnt do anything to ease my mood. But hey, he was gonna give me some free records and maybe an advert for Bassline FM so I persevered and waited.
So Swing turns up late (which I found out later wasn't a one off!) but he's like "I am sorry to keep you waiting man" and even though I was pissed, I was okay, cool. Then he said "Are you hungry" and got on the phone to order food, asking if I wanted anything. By now I am thinking "not only is he late, now he wants to nyam food before our meeting - liberties", but I held it down and we sat down and started talking about Hip Hop and that where our friendship was sealed. He was a passionate about the music as I was, by the time I left there I thought okay, he was late and all that, but he was cool.
When people die, it is so easy to canonise them and say how great they were, but on the real, I cant think of anything bad to say about Swing. When I started DJing in clubs where he was playing he would always say stuff like "yeah man, we are gonna hear some proper shit tonight coz real manz is on the bill" We came from different backgrounds and areas, he was an uptown DJ, I was ghetto as hell, but real recognises real and he was always very real with me.
I remember getting a call from my friend DJ T Bone one time and he said to me that he had been talking to Swing and Swing had brought up my name, just saying that I was one to watch out for and a cool person. I felt chuffed that he had even acknowledged my existence! To this day Swing never knew that T Bone and I were bonafide bredrins and T said that that conversation had convinced him that Swing was a genuine guy. That was the beauty of the man at that point, he hardly knew me, but knew I was grafting and recognised it.
After years of talking about it, I remember doing a show on Bassline one hot sunny evening and Swing and Special K came by the studio. We were based in a grotty kitchen in a squat in South London broadcasting to London. Now Swing DJayed all over the world, had done legal radio, but when he came to Bassline, you would have thought we were in the best radio studio in the world and we had a proper laugh and played some proper tunes. looking back at that day, to this day I laugh because on the real, we played some back pack shizzle!
In time I had the opportunity to DJ in some of the places around the world that Swing had deejayed in and everywhere I went, a promoter had a story about Swing, usually quite funny, but no one ever could doubt his commitment to or love of DJing. When he won the MOBO award for Best DJ, he was the first DJ who won that no one could bitch about it.
When we found out he had cancer, everyone was shocked, but somehow, we just figured he would be okay, I mean Swing was gonna be alright, right? DJs dont die, they just get old.
Through the work he did in raising the awareness of the fact that the chances of black people finding matching donors when they need them are 100000 - 1, many people will live. His existence on this planet was not in vain.
br>My thoughts go out to his family, his boys, the worse part of death is those left to mourn, but for those who knew Swing, think of what his vibe would be right now. You know his smile would lift the room and his positive presence would cheer everyone up. He'd be telling us not to be sad and thats why although the world will be a poorer place for his passing, we must celebrate his life, his life as a DJ, a father, music lover and definately a friend, yeah he was often late but was always worth the wait.
Swing, walk good man, sp
Ronnie Herel - 1Xtra
Whenever i saw him DJ, whether there were 100s or 1000s of people, each and every person, including me felt like he was playing to them personally. That's how gifted he was. Inspirational to me and many, I feel blessed to have known such a an incredible talent yet a warm and humble guy. My heart, love and thoughts are with him, his family and friends. Rest In Peace DJ Swing
Alex Jordan
What a sad day for music...big up DJ Swing - though I never knew you, I know of your legacy.
Lets let this sad occasion be a call to arms - Black people must give blood...its a crisis situation.
God Bless Swing and his family.
chevvy
my heart , luv and respect goes to dj swings family , please people wake up now the industry lost a good guy because people will not come forward i know my husband did and he said he had wished he had done this sooner to help people like dj swing. May you rest in peace and be smiling many hearts and minds are smiling with you .
Angie
I didn't know him, but his story inspired me to become a donor. Much respect.
Claire
God Bless DJ Swings family. He was a Brave man who sadly lost his fight to live. We where all blessed he was in our lives. His memory will live on. God Bless. x x x
Zoe
I was heartbroken when I got the call last night. I consider myself very priveledged to have known Swing, he was a sweet, cheerful and wonderful person who made me smile everytime I saw him. He will be greatly missed, not only by me but by anyone who was also lucky enough to know him. My thoughts go out to his family.
Wends
OMG. Am absolutely gutted. Used to rave with DJ Swing and the Boogie Bunch back in the day at the Fridge Club. A great guy and a fantastic DJ. His big ol' smile just lit up the room. Deepest condolences go out to his family. R.I.P.
Seani B 1Xtra DJ
I honestly thought that i wouldn't have to type a message like this, but I'm glad that my DJ brother is suffering no more.
He was truly talented in his craft. But as a person he was more blessed. Always smiling(I can see it now) with a warm, giving heart. I never knew him for long before he got ill, but in that short space of time you can tell he was genuine. When i wasn't getting no love in the west end clubs, he took it upon himself to get me gigs. Because he was so confident in his skills he didn't fear giving another DJ a break....RIP Swing.
VIVY B SOUL NETWORK
This is such devastating News We were all so happy when Swing had his transplant we thought he was on the mend I know I speak for us all when I say we have lost a Truley talented and lovely man. Our love and thoughts go out to Swings Family. I do hope this will be a wake up call for even more people to join the Bone Marrow register full details on ACLT website. RIP DJ SWING WE HAVE LOST A GREAT DJ, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTON XX VIVY
T
Respects have to be paid to an legend from the golden years of New Jack Swing era
All I can say as if you were there at Boogie Bunch, Fridge '91,'92.
you will understand the contribution this man made to music
A true legend from the old school
RIP
DJ Volatile
Swing was one of the only Club DJ's that could truly surprise you. It was never just a club night. It was entertainment, a real show. He also had the skills to go with it, which is very rare and will never be seen again.
The first time I warmed up for him, I was pleasantly surprised by how down to earth he was, and how he didn't place himself above anyone in the club. A lot of "big name" djs at the time had big egos to match, but Brian was always your mate, the guy you have a laugh with. I played alongside him just a few months ago in Ayia Napa. We were all blessed and very lucky to have witnessed his amazing performances one more time. I was truly touched by his strength. A better DJ, and greater role model you will not find. Rest In Peace Swing.
Mits - Hustlers Convention
What a truly inspirational guy!!!!
The atmosphere he created when he would dj!!! it was all about breaking new tunes, educating the crowd, he wouldnt take the easy option of playing a big tune to hype the crowd, he would work the crowd with his skills....a true master at his game!!!!
The vibe you created Swinger will still live on !!!! keep the vibe alive!!!
RIP !!! peace,love and respect!!!
DJ Mike Anthony - 1Xtra
There are not enough words to describe DJ Swing. When I look back on the days of Boogie Bunch and Rampage and our rivalry, then I look at how we became friends and the respect I have for such a gifted individual. To me DJ Swing was the man other DJs wanted to be and should aspire to.
Humble in character but boasting in the craft he loved and which he shared with so many. When I think of you Swing, we sat at a bar looking at the sea, sharing stories in Napa…and we laughed and laughed. Thank you for blessing us with your presence
RIP B. DJ Swing
Akin Oyefeso
As a DJ myself i have always held Swing in the highest regard. He is definitely the standard by which any UK Hip Hop and R&B DJ should be measured. He is also a genuinely nice person. I remember meeting him in 1996 and was struck by his humility and down to earth personality. He was also kind enough to give me a promo copy of a single by girl group Jade when i told him i was a DJ. I feel as if i've lost a friend. RIP Bruv.
Martin "In Full Swing"
A sad day for UK RNB DJ's. Had the privilage of DJ'ing with Swing many times over the last 10 years. He was always so full of life an an inspiration to me as a DJ. RIP friend.
DJ Freez'
Being from The Netherlands, I never knew about DJ Swing until recently, when members of a message board repped about him. It's so sad when talented people like this man pass away at such an early age. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. God bless.
Irie rowe
All I can say is he blessed us, blessed the community. God's got the best DJ next to him.
Rest in Peace
Irie
Radio 1 DJ - Crissy Criss
DJ Swing will be sadly missed for his trend setting DJ skills.. A true veteran.
DJ Rasheed Speede
I had the pleasure of being a warm up DJ for DJ Swing a couple of times a few years ago. he was a true pioneer in his technical, musical and creative ability. I will surely miss his musical presence. He must always be remembered for his dynamism, intelligence and sheer joy to watch.
Amma Donkor
I'm absolutely gutted. This is devastating news considering that I heard that he had recently found a suitable bone marrow donor. My heartfelt sympathies goes out to DJ's Swing's family at this difficult time. I was one of the many people who danced away every weekend to the heavy tunes that DJ Swing used to drop with the Boogie Bunch crew during their sessions at the Fridge Club in Brixton back in the day. He always had the ability to get the crowd going crazy on the dancefloor.. I'll never forget his warmy, sunny smilling face. This memory will stay with me always.
mag
Can't believe it man. Thought he was getting better. It's sad to see such a big talent go. I remember ravin hard at nuff boogie bunch raves. I'l always remember his lucious locks, beautiful smile and wicked sense of humour. RIP Brian xx
Antonia & Donna aka The She Rockers
Brian was one of the main DJs we use to jam to back in da day! Gonna miss not seeing him 'round Da Junction!
URBANELITE PROMOTIONS
Really sad. Huge number of UK heads got out & got tested such was their respect for the man. He'd been doing well after an initial op but sadly took a downturn. RIP SWING
Christina
I'm really sad DJ Swing has passed. I'll be praying that his family & friends may have strength & peace. With Lynden David Hall last month, it just goes to show life can end suddenly. I hope they are at home with God. Bless x
Rob
The best way to understand Swing is to say that he always was a humble guy with crazy skills who repped Hip Hop & RnB as it should be done. Rocking a party everytime - he even resorted to chastising crowds that we too stush. I'm crushed. I had 100% faith that he'd make it through and we'd catch joke at the next function he would play at. Obviously God had higher plans for him cos he took him from us way too early. Thoughts are with his family right about now. God bless.
CeeCee
i was hopeful and positive about ur recovery. words fail me at this time. it just doesnt seem fair at all. my heart goes out to your loved ones.
why?
Trinay
My heart goes out to his familya and his fans and all the artists that got to work with him shud feel honoured that they got to work with God's own masterpiece whish was and always will be DJ Swing!!!!!
Bur most of all my heart goes out to "music" which has lost a great friend which will never be replaced!
DJ Swing promoted his "friend" music to the limit breaking new ground in his path!!!
one love, peace!
xxx
Nick
Recent weeks have seen many influencial and inspirational figures passing away. This one hits home a bit more because I was involved in the Fight Myeloma campaign. I hope this is a wake up call to many who have procrastinated over becoming a blood donor. It could be any one of us that this happens to.
My heartfelt condolences to Swings Family and all of those whose lives he touched with his enthusiasm, his love for music and for always doing it with a smile and cheeky humour.
God Speed
1Xtra DJ - Jason
He's the reason why most DJs today buy two copies of the same record - for scratching and cutting up tunes.