YBS Skola
Well-known Baltimore City hip-hop artist YBS Skola was born Dajuan Cannady on June 30th, 1994.
A Westside native, Skola lives by the captivating
phrase, “You can’t find this swag no where. I’m the
chosen one”. His own style, own sound, and plans to
break molds as a continuing independent label
separates him from all others relevant in 2016. With
success as a key goal in mind he plans to use music
to make money in other major U.S. Cities and
become living proof of success for Baltimore and all
who look up to him.
YBS, an acronym for the street movement “Young
Ballers Shining”, is a group Skola has always
identified with. ’Skola’ was a family nickname given
to Dajuan during childhood. Encouragement from
his Family pertaining to the pursuit of his career as a
hip-hop artist was always given but it wasn't until
2015 that Cannady decided to take his music
seriously with the release of his first music video.
Seeing reactions from a rising fan base contributed
to the start of his career as a rapper. “I was always
told I could rap but I saw it as more of a hobby. I
never saw it as a way out because no one else from
the City was doing it so there was never really an
effort, it just happened”. The influence he has on
kids is something he says feels unbelievable. “It’s still amazing”. A vision to become a professional athlete was
a focus for Skola throughout school. During middle and high school years he played Football and Basketball
devoting his attention to becoming a pro. Towards the end of his grade school years he noticed that he was
not as dedicated to an athletic career as he would’ve needed to be. This allowed him to reconsider his interest
of becoming a professional and influenced his new dedication to a career in music.
By age 17 Skola, was able to record his first song. Having friends who wanted to become musical engineers
and producers gave him the opportunity to record music on a regular basis. “I used to record with them but,
never came out with a project”. After becoming comfortable with recording he began reaching out to different artists in the city and researching the quality of studios for more exposure. A connect to fellow campaign
member and well-known Baltimore artist, “Lor Scoota” allowed for new access to recording studios throughout the City.
His sound may be inspired by artists such as Future, Young Dolph, Young Jeezy, Yo Gotti, Lil Durk, and
Meek Millz, but Skola believes it is his delivery that sets him apart from all other street rappers today.
Considering himself a dynamic artist, his motivation is not similar to that of the cliché rapper persona. “I
already had what most rappers talk about having or could get it before I started doing music”. As a rapper,
his focus is to get paid in cities outside of Baltimore and make legitimate financial opportunities for those
around him. “I don’t have to fake it, I already live the lifestyle”.
As it stands today the young artist doesn’t see a positive outlook for the future of our youth, since majority of
individuals younger than 20 are heavily influenced by negativity. He doesn’t consider himself a role model
but would like to promote a more positive message through his music.
By age 17 Skola was able to record his first song. Having friends who wanted to become musical engineers
and producers gave him the opportunity to record music on a regular basis. “I used to record with them but
never came out with a project”. After becoming comfortable with recording he began reaching out to different
artists in the city and researching the quality of studios for more exposure. A connect to fellow campaign
member and well-known Baltimore artist, “Lor Scoota” allowed for new access to recording studios
throughout the City.
His sound may be inspired by artists such as Future, Young Dolph, Young Jeezy, Yo Gotti, Lil Durk, and
Meek Millz, but Skola believes it is his delivery that sets him apart from all other street rappers today.
Considering himself a dynamic artist, his motivation is not similar to that of the cliché rapper persona. “I
already had what most rappers talk about having or could get it before I started doing music”. As a rapper,
his focus is to get paid in cities outside of Baltimore and make legitimate financial opportunities for those
around him. “I don’t have to fake it, I already live the lifestyle”.
As it stands today the young artist doesn’t see a positive outlook for the future of our youth, since majority of
individuals younger than 20 are heavily influenced by negativity. He doesn’t consider himself a role model
but would like to promote a more positive message through his music. Cannady has a strong disbelief in
condoning violence and unnecessary ‘beef’ for attention. Urging fans to always look out for one another he
wants to motivate anyone who comes from nothing to continue dream chasing. “Want for better. Whether it’s
in becoming a doctor, a professional athlete, or even a rapper, do what it takes to get in a better position.
There’s
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