Best and Worst Sway Freestyles

A week ago, Shia LaBeouf challenged himself and today’s rappers by destroying Sway’s “Five Fingers of Death.” Possessedly stepping up to the microphone, elongated bill of his hat pulled down low under his snug headphones, hands holstered, Shia looked prepared to prove something. Perhaps he wanted to validate his Hip Hop commitment and Biggie, Pac and Missy tats; perhaps he wanted to prove something to himself; maybe to warn poor lyricists. Regardless of his intent, it was purposeful.

Despite an awkward dap between Shia and Sway, Louis Stevens approached the first Missy beat with confidence. Sway’s patronizing “pump up” claps; the valley of the hyenas; the menacing intro voice over—none of it phased him. He looked peaceful and ready. After DJ Wonder assured him that faster beats would follow, LaBeouf began testing the waters by spitting a few bars, reminiscent of boxer’s circling each other at a fight’s commencement.

His initial attempt was, as expected, pedestrian. I figured the final product would be framed as cultural appropriation. But as DJ Wonder switched the beat to “Kick In The Door,” Shia flipped a switch, gripped the table and fired his lyrical cannon with no regard for innocent bystanders. He convincingly conveyed passion and respect for the sport through his well-crafted lyrics, while questioning those who compromise its integrity: “Garbage litter shit they wrote / Miss me with that Lil Boat / ‘Cause bigger individuals / Committed to these principals / Is living on they tippy-toes / Sinking with a hippy’s hope.” I guess I’m not the only one who can’t stand Lil’ Yachty.

His initial rigidness melted into a free-flowing fluidity, allowing him to effortlessly ride each beat to the cypher’s end. After declaring that he just killed Sway’s Five Fingers, he vacated a huge sigh of relief. Hugs were exchanged; jaws were dropped; respect was earned. Shia proved himself.

Sway’s stage can either make you a champ or a chump. Shia came out the other side proudly wearing a crown; others are left rocking a Jester’s hat. Let’s take a look at some of the best and worst Sway Freestyles.

BEST (descending order):

LOCKSMITH