Dance, Baby, Dance

Little Rock DJ hopes to spin peace, love and joy

Trey Horton, AKA Fashionmobboss, says his musical journey began in childhood. He attributes his love for the craft to his family, who always encouraged him to rap along to the music they were listening to. Somewhere along the way, it became part of him, and it was difficult to imagine doing anything else. Since 2009, Trey has been involved in the rap scene, and for the past five months, he has also been DJing. For 15 years, Trey has dedicated his time and energy to crafting songs, rapping, and putting on shows for rave patrons and music lovers alike. What has come from this commitment is a toolbox filled with a wide range of genres. It’s important to Trey not to be confined to a single category, but instead to remain flexible and able to connect with diverse audiences.

Being an active participant in creative spaces like The Loom is important to Trey as well. Finding places that allow people to truly express themselves while building relationships with others who want to do the same, he says, is the epitome of the music scene. “It’s something you can’t measure,” Trey says. Beyond The Loom, he speaks fondly of the creative community in Little Rock. He tries to get as much as possible out of every interaction, finding inspiration in people others might overlook. Since moving to Little Rock in 2004, he has intentionally surrounded himself with others who love the music world as deeply as he does.

Like many musicians, Trey also draws inspiration from established artists. He is quick to name Xavier Wulf, the Memphis-born rapper, as one of his all-time favorites. He points to the song Street Chasing in particular. Trey explains that Xavier Wulf stands out because of his throwback video style and flow, both reminiscent of the early 2000s. For Trey, that nostalgia connects directly to his childhood memories of learning about rap through his family.

Fashionmobboss playing at The Loom: Intentions in Motion

When asked what sets him apart from other musicians striving for a breakthrough, Trey attributes it all to his drive. In his words, “Half the battle for artists is believing that they’re iconic.” It’s clear that Trey believes this—and is willing to put it to the test. During a recent community night at The Loom, in collaboration with Yaya’s Productions, Trey’s set packed the dance floor. His performance included songs that appealed to both older and younger generations, without ever veering into the obscure.

What becomes most evident when talking with Trey is that, like many musicians, his craft is an undeniable part of his soul. He says he wakes up excited to meet new people and show them who he is. To him, living is like a sweet melody—and he’s always searching for the lyrics or beat to accompany it.

Looking ahead, Trey is close to completing his bachelor’s degree in marketing at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He has several shows lined up, with details available on his Instagram @fashionmobboss2.0. On February 21, he will be performing at The Loom: Interlinked.