Today we’d like to introduce you to Darian (Swayzee) Or (Sway) May.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I got started in music at a young age. My dad was a producer who worked with artists like UGK and Juvenile, so music was always around me. I grew up watching sessions, learning the creative process firsthand, and eventually started making beats myself. What began as curiosity quickly turned into an obsession with understanding how records were made and why certain songs felt larger than life.
Over the years, that passion evolved into a career. I’ve spent more than 15 years developing my skills as a producer and engineer, working with artists, labels, and independent creatives to help bring their vision to life. I’ve always been a student of the craft, and today I’m fortunate to be mentored by Matthew Weiss, the Grammy-winning engineer known for his work with Chris Brown, Akon, and many other major artists. That mentorship has helped me refine not only my technical skills but also how I think about records at a professional level.
My sound and approach are heavily influenced by engineers and producers like Mike Dean and other top-level creatives who push the boundaries of modern music. I’m constantly studying the latest techniques in production, mixing, and vocal engineering to create records that feel competitive, polished, and timeless.
Today, I focus on producing, recording, mixing/mastering, and helping artists develop their sound from the ground up. What started as a kid making beats has grown into a lifelong commitment to creating great music and continuously mastering the craft.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
What’s a story without some bumps along the way. I’ve been extremely blessed with the opportunities in front of me today, but there are heartbreaks that come with it. I’ve had a couple record deals that weren’t seen through, mixes not make the cut, etc. I’ve even had one of my studio buildings shut down suddenly and had to relocate. It’s all a part of the journey. I’m thankful for the lessons that come with them and I’ve used those experiences to get better – to say next time this won’t happen.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a music producer, recording engineer, and mix engineer specializing in hip-hop, R&B, and contemporary vocal production. I help artists transform ideas into professional, release-ready records by combining creative production with high-level technical execution.
My expertise is in vocal engineering, mixing, and artist development. I’m passionate about crafting records that not only sound polished but also connect emotionally with listeners. Whether I’m producing a track, recording vocals, or mixing a final record, my focus is always on bringing out the strongest version of the artist’s vision.
What I’m most proud of is my commitment to mastering the craft. I’ve spent over 15 years studying music production and engineering, and I continue to learn from some of the best minds in the industry.
What sets me apart is my combination of technical expertise, musical instincts, and dedication to continuous improvement. I don’t just focus on making records sound good—I focus on understanding what makes them impactful.
At my core, I’m someone who is obsessed with excellence, committed to growth, and passionate about helping artists create their best work.
Mostly, I’m just so proud of of my friends. We do music together and started from the ground up, and we’ve all come a long way. I’ve always wanted to do this with my friends and I’m able to live that. That’s always been the ultimate goal.
A few artists I’ve been able to work closely with are KVDE, 91 Thompson, Casual Thomas, Kace Cadi, Southside Vic, Justin Champagne – and I look forward to working with many more.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I know I can speak for myself in this instance where I spent so much time studying and searching online, I made my connections that way. I didn’t really go to events – other than shows with my friends – to network. It was really just searching online and reaching out.
Pricing:
- Recording – $60 an hour
- Mixing/Mastering – $140 / Song
Contact Info:
- Website: https://members.engineears.com/member/jKfrU94yiJ
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itswayzee
