It’s the end of an era.
Master P, the trailblazing No Limit Records founder and hip-hop mogul, has announced that he’s officially stepping away from music—and his farewell performance is set.
In a heartfelt interview with PEOPLE, the 54-year-old rapper revealed that his Essence Festival show on July 6 in New Orleans will be his last.
????️ “My last show has to be with Essence. It has to be big. A celebration,” P declared.
The announcement comes as the hip-hop icon embraces an exciting new chapter—one focused on giving back, growing personally, and leaving behind the chaos of the music industry.
“I’m Growing to Another Level”
For Master P, real name Percy Miller, the decision to retire wasn’t made lightly. But as he explained, it feels like the right time to step away.
????️ “I’m growing to another level and I’m embracing it,” he said.
That “level” includes his recent appointment as head coach and president of basketball operations for the University of New Orleans basketball team—a role that blends his love for sports with his passion for mentoring young people.
????️ “It’s a blessing to transition into doing something bigger than me. Being a servant is my most important job now.”
From the Projects to a Powerhouse
Raised in New Orleans’ public housing, Master P’s journey from poverty to prominence is nothing short of inspiring.
????️ “I was just a kid trying to make it out the ghetto. I had so many big dreams and goals,” he reflected.
After relocating to California’s Bay Area in the ’90s, P soaked up game from West Coast rap legends like E-40 and JT The Bigga Figga before launching No Limit Records in Richmond, CA. The label became a cultural force, reshaping the business of hip-hop and paving the way for an entire generation of southern artists.
????️ “That’s where I got my hustle. Being with E-40, E-A-Ski, JT… they taught me the business. I actually created No Limit Records in Richmond.”
But the journey wasn’t without struggle.
????️ “I had a lot of close calls. I went from one bad place to another, but I feel like God saved my life for a reason. He knew my heart.”
“It’s Time to Grow Up”
Though he admits retiring is bittersweet, P believes stepping away is part of his evolution.
????️ “That chapter closed itself with maturing and growing up and not being afraid to grow. There’s a lot of negative stuff going on in hip-hop, and people don’t want to talk about the positive things. They say when you know better, you do better. That’s the phase I’m on. I’m fine with growing up.”
His words hit hard at a time when hip-hop is grappling with losses and controversies—and fans are praising P for choosing peace over pressure.
A Celebration, Not a Goodbye
Master P promises his Essence Festival finale won’t be somber. Instead, he’s planning a joyful sendoff to honor his decades-long career.
????️ “My last show has to be big. A celebration.”
Expect a setlist filled with classics like Make ’Em Say Uhh!, Bout It, Bout It, and Mr. Ice Cream Man—songs that defined an era and helped cement No Limit as a powerhouse.
Fans React: “P’s Legacy Is Untouchable”
The news of P’s retirement has sent shockwaves across social media, with fans and fellow artists saluting his impact.
????️ “Respect to Master P. He gave us music, movies, snacks, and hope.”
????️ “The man built an empire and is still giving back. Salute the general!”
????️ “Master P retiring feels surreal. He’s one of the real ones who actually lived his raps.”
What’s Next for Master P?
Though he’s leaving the stage behind, don’t expect P to slow down. His new role at the University of New Orleans signals a shift from entertainer to educator and mentor.
????️ “Hard work got me here, even though I didn’t know I was going to get this far in life. God spared my life and put me on this journey.”
He’s also hinted at continuing his entrepreneurial ventures, family-focused projects, and possibly even writing a memoir.
❤️ TPR Exclusive Question:
Do you think Master P is making the right move by retiring? And what’s your favorite No Limit classic?
???? Sound off in the comments and keep it locked on The Pop Radar for more exclusive updates!
