In a bold and nostalgic declaration, Mase has asserted that the beginning of his career eclipsed the early success of current hip-hop titan Drake. During an engaging conversation on the podcast It Is What It Is, co-hosted by Treasure Wilson, the Harlem rapper reflected on his rise to fame and the pivotal moments that defined his trajectory in the music industry.
Mase, who became a dominant force in the 1990s, rose to prominence after signing with Diddy’s Bad Boy Records in 1996. This partnership was made possible through his manager’s connection with Puff Daddy and The Notorious B.I.G. Mase recalled how he dedicated himself to refining his skills during this crucial period, stating, “I just started working on my flow, working on my bars, my delivery.” He immersed himself in the artistry of East Coast legends, drawing inspiration from greats like Method Man, LL Cool J, Nas, and Redman.
The turning point in Mase’s career came during a performance at the Apollo Theater, where he was brought on stage by The Notorious B.I.G. himself. “It was like what else could you be solidified by other than the greatest rapper ever to bring you out on stage and say, ‘you’re the next one,’” he reminisced. This moment marked the beginning of an extraordinary two-year run of hit-making that Mase believes was unparalleled at the time.
When discussing his early career, Mase confidently claimed, “I feel like my hand was hotter than probably Drake’s.” Although he acknowledged that Drake has enjoyed sustained success over the years, Mase emphasized the explosive nature of his own debut, asserting, “That initial start was hotter than Drake’s.” His comments sparked laughter among the hosts, as they recognized the audacity of his claim amid ongoing discussions about Drake’s dominance in the current music landscape.
Mase also took a moment to express gratitude to Biggie for the opportunities he provided, noting the profound impact the late rapper had on his career. He highlighted his excitement about attending the funeral of Biggie’s mother, who sadly passed away recently at the age of 72, further connecting his personal history with the legacy of his mentor.
Reflecting on his own catalog, Mase pointed to major hits like “Mo Money Mo Problems,” “Can’t Nobody Hold Me Down,” and his chart-topping debut album Harlem World, which sold over four million copies. He affirmed that his influence and contributions to hip-hop during that era were significant, and his legacy continues to resonate.
As Mase makes these bold statements, he not only reminds fans of his undeniable talent but also poses a compelling conversation about the nature of success in hip-hop. His reflections serve as a powerful reminder of the rich history of the genre and the artists who have shaped it.
For more updates on Mase and the latest developments in the music industry, stay tuned to HipHopRaisedMeTheBlog.com!
