In the heart of Cincinnati, where the Ohio River bends and the city’s rich musical heritage flows through its streets, a new voice is emerging – one that’s determined to make waves without compromising its values. Donte Horton, better known as Skooby, isn’t your typical hip-hop artist. In a genre often defined by its edges, he’s crafting a different path, one that proves you don’t need explicit lyrics to make an impact.
“I don’t have to curse in my music to get my message across to the world,” Horton says with quiet confidence. It’s this conviction, combined with his diverse background, that makes his story particularly compelling in today’s music landscape.
Born into a family of four brothers in Cincinnati, Horton’s journey to music wasn’t a straight path – and that’s exactly what makes it interesting. Before he was laying down tracks, he was laying down tackles as a Division I football player, traveling the world with his athletic career. But beneath the shoulder pads and helmet, an artist’s soul was waiting to emerge.
Art has always been Skooby’s first love. His college years as an art major weren’t just a backup plan – they were a foundation for the creative expression that would later define his music. This visual arts background brings a unique perspective to his songwriting, painting pictures with words rather than relying on shock value or crude language.
But perhaps what sets Horton apart most distinctly is his day job. While many aspiring artists spend their days waiting tables or working retail, Skooby works as a caregiver for people with mental disabilities. This compassionate work isn’t just a paycheck – it’s a calling that influences his music and reinforces his mission to spread positivity through his art.
Music runs deep in Horton’s family. His older brother KKEELLZ OSAMA has already made waves in Cincinnati with his hit single “Gucci Green,” which has become a city anthem. Meanwhile, his cousin Rodderick Bennett, a producer for Tremendous Beats, has helped pave the way for Horton’s entrance into the industry. This family connection to music isn’t just about networking – it’s about legacy and learning from those who’ve already blazed trails.
“Finding my sound was one of my biggest challenges,” Horton admits, reflecting on his journey. In an industry where it’s easy to imitate what works, he’s been determined to carve out his own lane. “I wanted to create something that was authentically me, not just an echo of what’s already out there.”
His approach to music is refreshingly sincere. While many artists claim divine inspiration, Horton’s commitment to “give the Glory back to GOD” feels genuine, woven naturally into his artistic expression rather than used as a marketing tool. It’s this authenticity that he hopes will help him connect with audiences globally, much like his idol Michael Jackson did generations ago.
As Skooby continues to develop his sound and build his presence in the industry, he represents a new kind of hip-hop artist – one who brings together the discipline of athletics, the vision of visual arts, the compassion of caregiving, and the power of faith. His story suggests that perhaps the future of hip-hop isn’t about following established paths, but about creating new ones.
In Cincinnati’s evolving music scene, Donte ‘Skooby’ Horton stands as a testament to the power of staying true to one’s values while pursuing artistic dreams. With his unique background, positive message, and unwavering commitment to his craft, he’s proving that you don’t need to fit the traditional mold to make an impact in hip-hop.
As he continues to develop his sound and share his message with the world, one thing becomes clear: Skooby isn’t just making music – he’s creating art with purpose, and that might just be exactly what the industry needs right now.
