Young Scooter, the renowned Atlanta rapper known for his impactful contributions to the hip-hop scene, has tragically passed away at the age of 39, coinciding with his birthday. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed his death to Variety, revealing that he was transported by emergency medical services to the Grady Marcus Trauma Center in Atlanta on Friday. The exact cause of death remains undetermined as an autopsy has yet to be completed.
Born Kenneth Edward Bailey in Walterboro, South Carolina, Young Scooter moved to Atlanta’s Kirkwood Community at the age of nine. His journey into the music industry began in 2008 following a drug trafficking charge, which prompted him to connect with his childhood friend, Future. This pivotal relationship led to several collaborations that would shape his career.
Young Scooter emerged as a significant figure in the Atlanta rap scene, becoming one of the first artists to sign with Future’s Freebandz label. He later joined Waka Flocka Flame’s Brick Squad Monopoly, which is under Gucci Mane’s 1017 Records. Throughout his career, Scooter amassed a loyal following thanks to his consistent mixtape releases and collaborations with prominent artists, including Gucci Mane and Zaytoven.
In 2018, Young Scooter achieved his first appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 with a feature on the track “Jet Lag” alongside Future and Juice Wrld. Although he may not have dominated the charts like some of his peers, he maintained a steadfast presence in the Atlanta hip-hop scene, particularly during its commercial boom in the 2010s. He contributed to singles from artists such as Future, Young Thug, and collaborated with notable names including Juicy J, Kodak Black, and Rick Ross.
Young Scooter was known for his unique flow, which he described in an interview with Complex in 2013 as “count music.” He stated, “I don’t really care what I say on a beat as long as it’s about some money. When you try to think hard and write it out, that’s when it’s gonna be messed up.” This philosophy resonated with fans and contributed to his authenticity as an artist.
Throughout his career, Young Scooter remained active and relevant in the industry, with his most recent project, “Trap’s Last Hope,” released in March 2024. This album, which was released independently, featured guest appearances from prominent artists such as Future, EST Gee, and Peewee Longway. His dedication to his craft and the Atlanta rap scene will be remembered by fans and peers alike.
The music world mourns the loss of Young Scooter, a vital contributor to the hip-hop genre and a beloved figure in the Atlanta community. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through his music and the impact he made on the industry.
