For over 30 years, Darim (Dareem) Stewart, known to his fans as Docta Skitz, has been a powerful force in the music world. Hailing from Norfolk, VA, Docta Skitz’s journey into music began at a young age, sparked by an intense admiration for Michael Jackson. “It started with Michael Jackson,” he recalls, “and seeing the look on people’s faces—the inspiration, the empowerment, the love for making others move.” It was this deep connection with music that set him on a path to pursue a career where his unique voice could inspire and uplift others.
His career spans decades and includes many milestones, but perhaps none more significant than his humble beginnings. “The greatest highlights come from when I started a hip hop group with my childhood friend,” he shares. “And the moment I pushed my first solo release, written, produced, and distributed by myself—even though it was launched on 9/12/2001, it did not stammer a release.” This early self-reliance and resilience laid the foundation for the artist Docta Skitz would become—a musician who is both self-sufficient and fiercely dedicated to his craft.
Describing his style as “unorthodox, raw, gritty, and powerful,” Docta Skitz’s music carries a distinct sound that resonates with listeners on a deep level. “It is a sound unheard and unique,” he says. “I come with a different frequency and a supreme message.” His music, often described as unapologetically authentic, reflects not only his artistic evolution but also his desire to share a message that goes beyond just entertainment.
Collaboration has played a significant role in Docta Skitz’s career. “I naturally blend with musicians because I, too, am a musician,” he says. “I gel with producers the same way; there has to be cohesion in order for magic to be made.” Whether working solo or collaborating with others, he understands the importance of chemistry in creating impactful music. Despite his collaborative nature, Docta Skitz often finds himself doing the bulk of the work. “If I find myself doing the bulk of the work, I’m independent by default,” he admits. “But things have always been smooth.”
His greatest achievement, he says, is learning every aspect of the entertainment industry—gaining skills and knowledge that have helped him not only as an artist but also as a businessman. One of his proudest accomplishments is establishing his own production company and publishing house, a testament to his independence and drive. “My greatest achievement was establishing my own production company and publishing,” he says, reflecting on how far he’s come. “I’ve managed to learn every aspect of the industry.”
What continues to motivate him as an artist is the world itself—the state of the mind, the state of the world, and his own personal relevance. “The state of the world, the state of the mind, and my relevance—these things drive me,” Docta Skitz explains. “I feel a necessary responsibility to send a message through my music.”
But the path hasn’t been without its challenges. From faulty business deals and partnerships to the personal struggles of incarceration, Docta Skitz has faced his fair share of adversity. “They were all learning lessons and only made me persevere,” he says, highlighting how each obstacle has shaped his resilience and determination.
Social media is an essential tool in his strategy to connect with fans, and Docta Skitz is committed to engaging with them daily. “I post daily, comment, and share videos of performances,” he explains. “I tend to mix and blend my content, it’s a hit and miss until you figure out the algorithm.” His direct engagement with his fanbase keeps him grounded while allowing him to stay connected to the people who have supported him over the years.
Looking ahead, Docta Skitz is preparing to release his next single, “In This Jungle,” slated for early 2025. “It’s a single for a full-length LP,” he shares, giving fans something to look forward to in the near future. As he continues to evolve, Docta Skitz is also open to exploring new opportunities in the industry, including distribution deals. “I’m open for options,” he says. “My current situation is not up to standard.”
With a career built on grit, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, Docta Skitz is poised to continue making waves in the music world. His unorthodox style and supreme message are resonating more than ever, and he’s just getting started.
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Listen to Docta Skitz’s latest music:
Listen now on Apple Music