In a recent episode of It Is What It Is, the legendary rapper Ma$e revealed a surprising truth about his early days in the rap game. While many associate him with Bad Boy Records and the infamous rivalry between The Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac Shakur, Ma$e admitted he was actually a bigger fan of Tupac than Biggie before joining Diddy’s label.
Ma$e’s candid reflections offer new insights into his rise to stardom and his experiences working alongside some of hip-hop’s greatest legends. He not only shares his relationship with Biggie but also talks about his journey of perfecting his craft as he transitioned into one of the most iconic figures in the rap scene.
A Dream Come True: The Road to Bad Boy
Ma$e, born Mason Durell Betha, had long dreamed of making a name for himself in the music world. His determination to succeed was unwavering, and when he finally made his way into the world of Bad Boy Records, he was ready to showcase his raw talent. But before becoming a global rap sensation, he spent considerable time refining his skills.
In the It Is What It Is interview, Ma$e explained the hard work and dedication it took to master his flow. “I worked on it for like six months,” he shared, highlighting his commitment to improving his craft. He immersed himself in the music of other hip-hop legends like Method Man, LL Cool J, and Nas. He credits Nas for inspiring his lyrical depth, Method Man for his distinctive bounce, and LL for his songwriting prowess.
Tupac Over Biggie? Ma$e’s Surprising Confession
However, there was one major surprise in Ma$e’s story that shocked listeners: despite signing to Bad Boy Records, he was initially more of a Tupac fan than a fan of his future label mate, Biggie.
Ma$e revealed, “I wasn’t at first listening to Big. I was more like a Tupac fan. So when I got signed to Bad Boy, it was like, now I’m with Bad Boy, but I was really a Tupac fan.”
This revelation may surprise many who associate Ma$e with the notorious East Coast-West Coast rivalry. Still, Ma$e’s confession sheds light on the complexity of the era. While Tupac was undoubtedly an icon, Biggie’s influence on Ma$e would soon take center stage, leading to one of the most memorable collaborations in hip-hop history.
Biggie’s Mentorship: The Game-Changer
As Ma$e began his journey with Bad Boy, Biggie Smalls would go on to become a mentor who not only shaped his career but also changed his perception of the rap game. “Biggie was letting me hear his raps… And I learned so much about rap like that,” Ma$e explained. It wasn’t long before Biggie’s mentorship took Ma$e’s career to new heights.
One pivotal moment in Ma$e’s journey came when Biggie invited him to perform at the historic Apollo Theater. Ma$e recalled that this experience was the turning point that elevated him to superstardom. “One day, he was performing at the Apollo, and he brought me out, and that was the part that just changed everything,” he revealed. Performing at such an iconic venue with one of hip-hop’s greatest talents was a significant moment in Ma$e’s rise to fame.
Iconic Collaborations with Biggie
As Ma$e’s career blossomed, he was featured in some of the biggest hits of the 90s, working alongside Biggie on multiple tracks that became instant classics. His debut track with Biggie was on the remix of “Only You” by 112, a hit that marked the beginning of an era of collaboration between the two stars.
In 1997, Ma$e appeared alongside Biggie in the track “Mo Money, Mo Problems,” which went on to top the Billboard Hot 100 for two weeks. The song became an anthem for hip-hop fans worldwide and further solidified Ma$e’s place in the Bad Boy legacy. But that wasn’t the only collaboration the duo would have. Ma$e was also featured on Biggie’s “Been Around the World,” a song that would reach number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and remain a fan favorite.
These songs, along with Ma$e’s contributions to the Bad Boy roster, helped propel him to global fame and establish him as a rap star in his own right.
Ma$e’s Legacy: A Blend of Influences
While Ma$e may have initially been a Tupac fan, his musical influences and growth as an artist are undeniable. His ability to combine his admiration for Tupac with the wisdom gained from working alongside Biggie and other rap icons allowed him to carve out his own lane in hip-hop. The fusion of these influences shaped Ma$e’s signature style, which blended lyrical depth, catchy hooks, and an unforgettable flow.
Looking back, Ma$e’s career is a testament to his versatility as an artist and his ability to navigate the ever-evolving rap scene. From his humble beginnings in Harlem to his rise as a global superstar, Ma$e’s journey is one of hard work, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to his craft.
Conclusion: A Complex Relationship with Hip-Hop
Ma$e’s revelations about his fandom for Tupac and his relationship with Biggie provide a fresh perspective on the golden era of hip-hop. His story is one of respect, rivalry, and collaboration, all of which played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of 90s rap.
As we look back on the history of Bad Boy Records and the legendary figures that defined the label, Ma$e’s contributions stand out as an essential part of the hip-hop narrative. His journey from a Tupac fan to a key player in the Bad Boy dynasty is a story of transformation, and it offers a unique glimpse into the world of hip-hop during one of its most influential periods.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Ma$e, Biggie, or Tupac, one thing is clear: the legacy of these rap icons continues to shape the music industry today.
