Today we’d like to introduce you to Ric Scales.
Hi Ric, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I moved here from Raleigh, North Carolina, around 2004. I had already been involved in freestyle battle rap while attending High School in Honolulu. Through some great people and a lot of time and effort, I was able to establish myself here in San Diego as (arguably) one of the best.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s been a relatively smooth road as it pertains to what I do. Of course, life gets in the way. Whether it’s family drama or relationship problems or whatever the case may be. For me, I’ve noticed that treating people the way I want to be treated has always helped me be able to stay the course. The love and support that I get here is everything. I’ve been able to maintain that by recognizing why I’m where I’m at. My hard work, my heart, the friends I’ve made along the road, and my love for what I do have all allowed me to continue pursuing my dreams.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an Emcee, best known for my freestyle abilities as I’ve won a competition called Battlebot at the Casbah here in San Diego numerous times. It’s a monthly event that has Emcee battles, Beat Battles, BBoy/Girl Battles, and occasionally DJ Battles. For a good five years or so, I won almost every month. I’m also 1/2 of the local Hip Hop Group 18Scales with my bro Ralph Quasar who produces all of our music and occasionally raps as well. We have six projects out available on most streaming sites. Also, I throw a show called Slappin’ Hands alongside my Bro DJ Root. It’s a monthly (mostly) Local showcase for Hip Hop & R&B where we spin a majority of local music between sets and prior to performances where we specifically pick our performances to curate a vibe. We also make sure we pay our performers because you can’t have a dope show without dope talent.
I’m proud of everything I do, as it all comes from a place of love. What sets me apart from others is my originality. From my music to my personality, I dont try hard like that. I don’t try to follow trends or to look or sound like anyone else, nor do I try to be super different. I just do what feels good. Everything about me is a culmination of everything I love. That’s not to say there aren’t others out there that maneuver in a similar fashion, but I do it my way.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Treat people well. Expect nothing. Give as much as you can within reason. Stay out of your ego, and don’t take yourself too seriously. These are things that have helped me build my reputation and brand the most. If you give love genuinely, with no expectation of anything in return, it will almost undoubtedly come back to you.
Contact Info:
- Email: Ricscalesbooking@gmail.com
- Website: 18scales.bandcamp.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/ricscales?utm_medium=copy_link
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ricscales
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/RicScales?s=09
- SoundCloud: Check out Ric Scales on #SoundCloud https://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/TjfwW
Image Credits:
Diva Hammamd Rubix One Danny Nguyen Snap pilots Rich Soublet Lupita Aparicio
