The Tribune

By LESH

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

SKULLY’S goal for the remainder of the year is simple – to reach as many ears as possible, locally and internationally.

The Bahamian artist said he plans to record more music and shoot videos independently as well as with his team BASS/3AM, so that people can become more familiar with his brand and put a face to the name.

Since a young age, music has been important to Skully. Having a mother and an older brother who both enjoy music helped to spark an interest within him that has propelled him to this point in his life.

Skully recently recorded and shot a video for his single “Late Night.” He said his song “Promise” will most likely be the next release.

Some of his new work can also be found on an album project called “ChemiSTry”, on which he collaborated with Bahamian rapper Travis Bowe.

Skully said his music on that album is a reflection of his thoughts, triumphs and struggles.

“I wanted to ensure that I gave people an understanding of who I am – a driven 24-year-old with big dreams and aspirations for himself and those around him; yet an individual who is still maturing, learning himself and confused about certain aspects of his life. I address what it’s like being the son of a single mother and being concerned whether or not your decisions make her proud, or what it’s like to be torn between returning to school or pursuing music. My aim is to give people insight into the things I think about and sometimes battle with, in hopes that it will resonate with someone who may be going through similar situations and need motivation to continue their pursuit. Of course making music that is relevant and appealing to my generation is important, but what’s more vital to me is maintaining honesty in everything I say,” Skully told In Ya Ear.

Growing up in Nassau, Skully recalls many parties hosted by his mother where she and her friends would dance to the sounds of calypso, rake n’ scrape and the golden oldies.

Meanwhile, his brother would be introducing him to the latest rap albums from the likes of Biggie, Jay Z, DMX and Snoop Dogg. Skully said he has always been passionate about writing, whether it’s essays, short stories or poetry.

“I think this interest led to me gravitating more toward rapping. From the time I entered high school I found myself jotting down what I considered poems and witty ideas at the time. However, once I found myself surrounded by other individuals with similar abilities, the urge to rap grew. At 15, I began recording music with friends, Travis Bowe and Tariq Albury. During this time, I noticed how receptive people were of us expressing ourselves this way, and rapping quickly became a hobby/venting mechanism for me, and has stuck with me ever since,” said Skully.

His mother has definitely been the most influential person in his life, as he has always admired her strength and courage, but most importantly her selfless attitude toward his brother and himself. Skully said his mother would literally do without to ensure that they received the best opportunities, and for this he is forever grateful.

“Being able to reward her in this lifetime is a priority for me because I’m certain it was not an easy task raising two men,” he said.

With music, Skully said he has plans to go as far as the opportunities presented allow him to. He would love, however, to get paid to entertain people and travel the world telling his story, especially in an era of music where fairy tale success stories so often happen overnight.

“In most cases, it takes time, time that I could certainly dedicate to the music, but could also dedicate to finishing other things that I’ve started. In 2011, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Biology, so a career in the medical field has always been my goal. With opportunities on the horizon for school, these next few weeks will be filled with tough decisions. In a perfect world, I would pursue music full time, however, putting aside my childhood dream of becoming a doctor would be a difficult task. I’m sure that God will guide me to make the best choice, so I’ll keep the faith and see how it all pans out,” said Skully.

He said the feedback on the “ChemiSTry” project has been tremendous, adding that friends and strangers have commended both artists on creating a really good body of work.

The mix-tape has been featured on a number of local and international websites, each of which has given positive reviews. Skully said he looks forward to the fan support growing with continued success.

Skully’s music can be found on Soundcloud.com under the name “Skully’s World”. He is currently brainstorming ideas for a solo project, as well as discussing “ChemiSTry 2” plans with Travis.