Hailing from Queens, NY — a borough deeply woven into the fabric of hip-hop’s history — 0401 Swizz (aka Raphael Nancoo Jr.) is emerging as one of the most exciting new voices in rap. His story is still being written, but already it’s shaping up to include charting singles, high-end fashion, and major label partnerships.
Early Momentum & Breakthrough Singles
Swizz first caught major attention with his track “Never Gave Up”, which drew over a quarter million views. That kind of traction set the tone for what would follow.
His career took another leap when “Unavailable” charted at #26 on iTunes Top 200, and “Never Give Up” also charted, peaking at #38 (on iTunes). Those placements functioned as proof points — he wasn’t just building buzz; he was breaking into measurable success. (Note: I could not independently verify chart dates, duration, or additional chart platforms yet — that may require consulting iTunes archives or label data.)
As of now, he’s in the studio working on his debut album, building on that early success and laying a foundation for longevity.
Label Move & Management Team
Swizz is managed by Luciano Layne, who helms ALPHA Recording Group. Under Luciano’s vision, ALPHA secured a joint venture deal with both Universal Music Group and Virgin Music Group, bringing major-label muscle and structure to Swizz’s prospects.
In that structure, Swizz is now officially signed under the umbrella of Universal / Virgin via ALPHA. This gives him access to distribution, marketing, and promotional resources that independent artists often lack.
Fashion, Stage Presence & NYFW
Swizz isn’t just about the music — he’s moving in fashion circles as well. He walked in New York Fashion Week (NYFW), signaling his awareness of the cross-pollination between streetwear, culture, and hip-hop identity. That presence also helps raise his visibility beyond purely music audiences.
His image, style, and persona align with artists who treat fashion as part of the creative statement — not just a side hustle.
The Sound & The Promise
From his earliest tracks to his upcoming body of work, 0401 Swizz’s music aims to deliver both grit and melody. There’s passion in his voice, ambition in his verses, and a clear sense that he’s working toward something bigger than a viral moment.
Coming from Queens, hoping to follow in footsteps of icons, Swizz is staking his claim as a next-generation voice one poised to bridge underground hunger with mainstream opportunity.