A deejay known for his versatile lyrical style, Ruff Scotthas been rocking the reggae scene for more than ten years.With the international release on Easy Star Records of hislatest single, "What Goes Around," Ruff Scott is ready toflex his many styles and lyrics for a whole new legion offans.

"I never adapted to a particular style," says Ruff Scott, "because I always wanted to be versatile." You may hear Tiger's influence in Ruff Scott's songs, or echoes of ShabbaRanks in his vocal tones, but the more subtle comparisonsare to Ruff Scott's two main idols, Yellowman and BrigadierJerry. "Those two guys were the key," he says. "Not even forthe style really, just as mentors to look up to." Still,Ruff Scott manages to distill all of these influences into aunique voice. Most importantly, Ruff Scott chats strictlyculture lyrics, displaying his determination to spreadknowledge and positive vibes to the world.

Born in Manchester, Jamaica, Ruff Scott relocated toBrooklyn, NY, when he was seven years old. His microphonemastery follows in the footsteps of his older brother,Scotty Ranks, a deejay who was taken before his time. Intribute to his brother, young Ruff took his brother's nameand began to work non-stop on developing his many talents.

In 1991, Ruff Scott released his first single, "Riot," a response to the Rodney King verdict in Los Angeles. Severalsingles followed, the most well known of which was "Spider'sWeb," released in 1995, which received airplay around thenation and led to an appearance at Sting International '96in Miami, Florida.

Ruff Scott has performed his energetic stage show at manyvenues and festivals, including the Annual African StreetFestival and the West Indian Day Carnival."I try to let people see me on the stage having fun. I wantyou to look at me and say, 'Man, that guy loves what he'sdoing!'" says Ruff Scott. He has opened for Sugar Minott,Dennis Brown, Marcia Griffiths, Sister Carol and Yellowman.Ruff Scott often teams up on stage with fellow Easy Starrecording artist Rob Symeonn.

Ruff Scott is available for interviews either by phone or inperson. He performs live throughout the area.