Badda Skat

How does an original lyricist named Aaron Ugosmith (who also happens to be a white guy from Tampa, Florida with natural dreadlocks that have grown down past his knees) transform into a well-respected reggae artist? With hard work, a pure heart and a touch of divine intervention...

Emerging from the underground scene of internet dancehall in the year 2000, Badda began to perfect his craft and systematically carve out his space in the industry. Working with a variety of producers globally, Badda put together an arsenal of tracks that he soon organized as a way to educate and inform the masses. With a focus on conscious material and informative content, word began to spread about not only the skill of the delivery, but also the quality of lyrics and the messages they conveyed.

Badda Skat has striven to remain independent in the production of his music, both financially and creatively. DubShot Studios, where the majority of Badda’s tracks have been recorded, first started as a 10’ x 10’ room that also doubled as his living space. Keeping the name DubShot thoughout its various incarnations, these humble studios would go on to facilitate the recording of over one hundred full-length tracks, including his debut album, GRASS ROOTS, and most recently the dub album follow-up to Grass Roots, GRASS DUBS.

Radio stations from all over the world have begun to recognize Badda’s potential. Even while operating beneath the mainstream radar, he has earned airplay on stations such as WSUN in Tampa, FL, KSVY in Sonoma, CA, as well as Unique FM in Nottingham, UK. Badda Skat’s message is starting to be heard.

Badda has performed to a variety of US audiences in recent years, running tours that have touched states like Florida, Ohio, Missouri, Georgia, Nebraska, and Kansas. He has also performed live with numerous bands such as Jah Roots, Scholar's Word, Tribal Style, Dreadnot, Offshore Riot, The Bonham House, and Misgana. Jah Roots provided the musical foundation for GRASS ROOTS, GRASS DUBS, and the track “Empress” which was featured on Jah Roots' Crucial.

In early 2009, Badda had the privilege of performing live with the Original Wailers in Miami; a life-changing experience.

Badda has enjoyed opening for various international acts such as Yellowman, Eek -a-Mouse, Black Uhuru, Morgan Heritage, Julian Marley, Gyptian, Collie Buddz, 311, Less Than Jake, and Matisyahu.