Young Scooter: Celebrated Atlanta Rapper and Collaborator with Future and Waka Flocka Flame Passes Away at 39

Young Scooter, an influential Atlanta rapper, passed away at the age of 39 on his birthday. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office reported his death, stating he had been rushed to Grady Marcus Trauma Center in Atlanta. The exact cause of death is still unknown as an autopsy hasn’t been completed.

Born Kenneth Edward Bailey in Walterboro, South Carolina, Scooter moved to Atlanta when he was nine. He carved out a niche in the Atlanta rap scene, becoming one of the first artists signed to Future’s Freebandz label and later to Waka Flocka Flame’s Brick Squad Monopoly.

Scooter was not just a feature artist; he was known for his mixtape releases and collaborations with notable names like Gucci Mane and Zaytoven. His breakout moment came in 2018 with his feature on Future and Juice Wrld’s track "Jet Lag," which marked his first entry on the Billboard Hot 100.

In 2008, after facing a drug trafficking charge, Scooter decided to focus on music. He and Future, a childhood friend, worked closely together, boosting each other’s careers. Though he didn’t reach the heights of chart-topping artists, Scooter maintained a steady presence in hip-hop during the genre’s explosive growth in the 2010s. He collaborated with big names like Young Thug, Juicy J, Kodak Black, and Rick Ross.

In a 2013 interview with Complex, he discussed his unique style, which he called “count music.” He focused on the rhythm and flow rather than overthinking the lyrics. His approach shows the creative freedom prevalent in hip-hop.

Recently, Scooter released “Trap’s Last Hope,” his fourteenth project, in March 2024. This independent album features guest appearances from artists like Future and EST Gee.

Scooter’s impact on the Atlanta rap scene is significant. Many fans and fellow artists took to social media to express their sorrow and celebrate his contributions. His distinct sound and style left a mark that will be remembered in hip-hop for years to come.

For a closer look at Scooter’s life and career, you can check out more details in his Complex interview.

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