Celio Skilz

"Use what you have to get what you want’ is what my Aunt told me a few months before she passed," said Celio Skilz. C. Skilz, a rap artist from California, has managed to create a buzz with his critically acclaimed debut album, "The Cost of Being Me." His blend of bi-coastal beats mixed with straight forward, witty lyrics has allowed his fans to identify with him. "My gimmick is to be myself and tell my experiences. That’s probably why so many people relate to my work," says the former graffiti artist. "I’ve been rhyming since I was twelve. No matter what people thought I was, I always told them I wouldn’t put anything out 'til the climate was right."

With subject matters on "The Cost of Being Me" jumping from facing ones inner demons (on "Self Defense"), to addressing fools ruining parties by getting too drunk (on "F*ck the Party Up"), the themes are what everyday folks deal with. But don’t think that normality makes him slouch on lyrics. Celio Skilz’s last name speaks for itself on "They’ve Been Waiting. With "She Used to Love Me," C. Skilz allows Hip-Hop, in feminine form, to vent her frustration about her so-called fans, in an answer to Common’s "I Used to Love H.E.R." This album has some of the best beats I’ve ever done," says DJ Rek, who produced all but one track on the possible classic. "We tried to not make any fillers. "

Celio Skilz originally started out as a ghostwriter in the late '80’s for his twin brothers, while in a group called DTC (DUBB TRUBB CREW). He now performs with local sensations such as, the ICONS, K CEE Legendary, and Regg Henny. He has participated in opening up for major acts in his San Diego hometown, including Mos Def, LL COOL J, and KRS ONE. He has further credits through helping fellow rappers with marketing, managing, and grooming.