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nitially just a group of “swagged up kids in school,” the Rich Kids (Khaelub, Baby Charles, Skateboard Skooley, Shad and June) became a rap group less than a year ago. That may not be a long time by most people’s standards, but when you’re gifted with a mix of entertaining personalities, word spreads quickly. The group soon found a home with Grand Hustle Records. “We started rapping like 8 months ago,” Khaelub says. “We were already in the studio, but we were just playing around and never thought about rappin’. ‘What’s Up’ was the first song we recorded.” A week after finishing “What’s Up,” the group recorded “My Partna ‘Dem” with Young Dro, giving The Rich Kids two instant hits in Atlanta. Their mesh of sounds, fun energy, and signature dance moves made them most requested in their hometown, both in the clubs and on the radio. Skooley, the Rich Kids’ youngest member and hook singer, explains their fast rise to fame. “Not being big-headed,” he says, “but as more experienced people told us how big we were gonna be, the more we felt the same way.” Currently working on a mixtape with DJs Southanbred and Infamous titled Money Swagg, which is also the name of their dance, The Rich Kids are still in the development stages. KT, their manager and longtime Grand Hustle affiliate, says, “We’re working on getting the records in rotation, working on this mixtape, and getting the paperwork right.” With all the pieces falling into place, the records are starting to make their way into other markets like Alabama, Tennessee, Florida, and South Carolina, making The Rich Kids regional celebrities. It’s an experience the boys are more than appreciative of. “I’ve been in the club before, but I ain’t never been in the club like a star,” Shad explains. “It gave me a better feeling about myself. I hope for much success in the future, and money.” “I really love doing this,” Baby Charles adds. “I love going to the studio and doing the shows and stuff. We doing this for y’all.” Their energetic spirits have gotten them a long way thus far, and everyone is looking at the Rich Kids as the next big trend in Atlanta. “They are very talented and what they are doing hasn’t been done in a long time,” concludes KT. “They bring a lot of energy to the stage and in the booth. They some dang characters for real; that’s what we’re selling. They’ve got what it takes.” Words by Ms Rivercity Photo by Devon Buckner
36 // OZONE MAG
Patiently Waiting