What's Happening?
Ric Scales, born Cedric Robertson in Columbia, Missouri, has established himself as a prominent figure in San Diego's underground Hip Hop scene. His journey began with a childhood marked by his father's military service, leading to moves and exposure
to diverse musical genres. Scales' early years in Hawaii were pivotal, where he honed his freestyling and battle rapping skills, gaining a reputation as a 'ferocious battle emcee.' He later moved to San Diego in 2004, adopting his stage name, initially 'Richter Scales,' which was later shortened. In San Diego, he collaborated with local talent, forming the duo 18Scales with Chuck M00n in 2015. Scales has since released an extensive catalog of music as both a solo artist and with 18Scales, performing at venues like the Old Globe Theater and on KPBS' Midday Edition. He also became a multiple-time champion of the 'No Sucker DJs Battlebot' event held at The Casbah from 2015 to 2020, which featured beat battles, DJ scratch-offs, dance competitions, and battle rap tournaments. Currently, Scales is working on the debut album for his new group, Soul Disciples, and co-hosts a monthly showcase for local Hip Hop and R&B acts called 'Slappin’ Hands.'
Why It's Important?
Ric Scales' career trajectory highlights the resilience and evolving nature of the independent Hip Hop scene in U.S. cities like San Diego. His story underscores the importance of local communities and events, such as the 'No Sucker DJs Battlebot,' in nurturing talent and providing platforms for artists outside mainstream music industry channels. Scales' ability to adapt and grow, from a battle rapper to a recording artist and community organizer, reflects the entrepreneurial spirit often found in independent music. His dedication to his craft and his community contributes significantly to the cultural landscape of San Diego, offering inspiration and opportunities for other aspiring artists. The continued success of artists like Scales demonstrates that authentic artistic expression and community building remain vital components of the music industry, even in an era dominated by digital platforms and major labels.
What's Next?
Ric Scales is currently focused on the upcoming debut album for his group, Soul Disciples, which includes emcees Ray Jones and King Cobretti, and producer Seiji Komo. This project signifies a new chapter in his musical evolution, potentially expanding his artistic reach and sound. Additionally, his ongoing involvement in co-hosting the 'Slappin’ Hands' showcase suggests a continued commitment to fostering local Hip Hop and R&B talent in San Diego. These activities indicate that Scales will likely remain an active and influential figure in the San Diego music scene, both as a performer and a community builder. His future endeavors will likely continue to blend his performance career with efforts to support and elevate other artists in his community.
Beyond the Headlines
Ric Scales' journey from a battle rapper to a respected artist and community figure offers a deeper look into the cultural significance of battle rap as a foundational element of Hip Hop. Battle rap, often seen as a raw and competitive art form, serves as a crucial training ground for lyrical prowess, stage presence, and quick thinking. Scales' success demonstrates how these skills can translate into a broader musical career and community leadership. His story also subtly critiques the superficiality sometimes present in modern music, as he laments 'imposter emcees' and 'faux spiritualists' in his lyrics. This highlights the enduring value of authenticity and lyrical integrity within Hip Hop culture. Furthermore, his experience underscores the role of military communities in shaping diverse cultural landscapes, as his father's service exposed him to various environments that influenced his artistic development.
