G Malio and Baby Dukes Talk Columbus Music Culture, Art, and Staying True to Their Roots
Ohio's underground scene is rising fast, and two artists helping shape its future are G Malio and Baby Dukes. Repping the South Side of Columbus, they sat down to dive deep into their creative journeys, the challenges of building without major industry support, and why loyalty and consistency drive everything they do.
Both artists bring a raw authenticity that comes from real-life experience—from engineering their own tracks to designing cover art and plotting long-term moves beyond music. Their approach isn’t about trends. It’s about legacy.
Growing Up in Columbus
G Malio and Baby Dukes both grew up navigating the ups and downs of South Side Columbus. While Malio spent his early years moving between family members and dealing with the realities of the streets, Dukes found stability through family but developed a fierce independence early on. Their backgrounds shaped not only their music, but their mindset.
Both artists stress the importance of being self-sufficient—learning how to record, mix, market, and brand themselves without waiting for outside validation.
Music as a Calling
For both Malio and Dukes, music wasn’t just a hobby. It was a way of life. Malio credits his cousin for introducing him to studio life at a young age, while Dukes got serious about music after freestyling sessions turned into full recording projects.
Over time, both artists realized that music could be a bridge—a way to turn pain into purpose, survival into storytelling, and dreams into tangible blueprints.
Building Without Handouts
Rather than chase after deals or wait for the "right time," both Malio and Dukes built their skills independently. Dukes, in particular, mastered multiple disciplines—graphic design, engineering, songwriting—all self-taught. Malio focused on perfecting his delivery, building a consistent catalog, and learning how to market himself without relying on industry shortcuts.
Their journey reflects a broader spirit among Columbus creatives: hustle, resilience, and faith in long-term vision over short-term hype.
Columbus and the Ohio Sound
Both artists agree that Columbus is an underrated hub. While Cleveland and Cincinnati often get the spotlight, Columbus has been quietly growing its own ecosystem—one focused on entrepreneurship, collaboration, and authenticity.
Malio and Dukes discuss how Ohio's history of innovation and hustle energy shapes their sound and ambitions. They also recognize the importance of supporting one another, noting that collaboration—not competition—is what will ultimately put Columbus on the global map.
Bigger Than Music
Long-term, both artists have goals that extend beyond albums and singles. Malio speaks passionately about securing generational wealth, mentoring youth, and building businesses that uplift his community. Dukes envisions launching clothing brands, designing video concepts, and helping others in his city express themselves creatively.
Both understand that success isn’t just personal. It’s communal.
