Mase

Mase

Mase was born on August 27th, 1975

Full Name: Mason Durell Betha
Place of Birth: Jacksonville, Florida, USA
Height: 5 ft 11 in
Occupation: Rapper, songwriter, pastor
Genre: Hip hop
Label: Bad Boy Records
Debut Album: Harlem World
Retirement: 2005

A Harlem-born rapper who rose to fame in the late 1990s with hits like "Feel So Good" and "Mo Money Mo Problems," later becoming a pastor and minister.

Written by: Jack Thompson Jack Thompson

Mase: The Rapper Who Rose to Fame with Harlem World

Award-Winning Debut and Early Success

Mase, born Mason Durell Betha, is an American rapper known for his chart-topping debut album Harlem World and his collaborations with Sean "Puff Daddy" Combs on Bad Boy Records. With his signature laid-back flow and catchy hooks, Mase quickly rose to fame in the late 1990s, earning quadruple platinum certification for Harlem World and scoring top ten singles on the Billboard Hot 100.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born on August 27, 1975, in Jacksonville, Florida, Mase grew up in Harlem, New York City. Before his solo career, he was a member of the hip-hop group Children of the Corn, which he formed in 1994 with fellow New York City-based rappers, including Cam'ron and Big L.

BREAKTHROUGH WITH BAD BOY RECORDS

Mase's big break came when he signed with Bad Boy Records in 1996, becoming Puff Daddy's hype man. He guest-appeared on Puff Daddy's single "Can't Nobody Hold Me Down," which peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Mase's subsequent singles as a lead artist, "Feel So Good" featuring Kelly Price and "What You Want" featuring Total, both peaked within the top ten of the chart.

Harlem World and Mainstream Recognition

Released in October 1997, Harlem World debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, earning quadruple platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The album spawned Mase's third top ten single as a lead artist, "Lookin' at Me" featuring Puff Daddy. Additionally, his guest performances on labelmate the Notorious B.I.G.'s single "Mo Money Mo Problems" and Puff Daddy's "Been Around the World" peaked at numbers one and two on the Billboard Hot 100, respectively.

HIATUS AND RETURN TO MUSIC

In the early 2000s, Mase took a five-year hiatus from music to focus on Christian ministry. He returned to the music scene in 2004 with his third album, Welcome Back, which peaked at number four on the Billboard 200 chart. The album was led by the single "Welcome Back" and its follow-up, "Breathe, Stretch, Shake" featuring Puff Daddy.

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

During his hiatus, Mase pursued a career in Christian ministry, becoming an ordained minister. He has been open about his faith and its influence on his life and music.

Influence on Modern Society

Mase's contributions to hip-hop in the late 1990s helped shape the genre and paved the way for future artists. His music and message of perseverance and redemption continue to inspire fans today.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

Legacy and Impact on Hip-Hop

Mase's influence on hip-hop is undeniable. His chart-topping debut album Harlem World and collaborations with Puff Daddy helped define the sound of late 1990s hip-hop. Today, he remains an iconic figure in the genre, with a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans.
Timeline
1975
Born in Jacksonville, Florida
Mase was born Mason Durell Betha on August 27, 1975, in Jacksonville, Florida. He would later become a successful rapper and pastor.
1997
Released Debut Album
Mase released his debut album Harlem World which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart.
1999
Won Grammy Nomination
Mase was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance for his single Lookin at Me.
2004
Retired from Music
Mase announced his retirement from music to pursue a career in the ministry.
2013
Released Comeback Single
After a decade-long hiatus, Mase released a comeback single Why Cant We featuring Her
Mase

Mase Quiz

Mase's music career was marked by hits in which genre?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What is Mases rap style?
Mase is known for his smooth flow and uplifting lyrics, which have made him a successful rapper and songwriter.
What is Mases relationship with Puff Daddy like?
Mase was signed to Puff Daddys record label, Bad Boy Records, and has credited Puff with helping to launch his career.
How does Mases faith impact his music?
Mase is a devout Christian and has incorporated his faith into his music, often incorporating gospel-inspired themes and messages into his lyrics.
What is Mases post-music career like?
After retiring from music, Mase went on to become a pastor and has written several books on spirituality and personal growth.

Related People:

The Notorious B.I.G.

53 Years Old

A dominant force in 90s hip-hop, known for vivid storytelling and authentic lyrics that painted a gritty picture of life in Brooklyn. His music addressed social issues and told stories of struggle and triumph.

Mary J. Blige

55 Years Old

A legendary R&B icon, known for her powerful, soulful voice and chart-topping hits that have inspired generations of music lovers.

Remy Ma

44 Years Old

A Grammy-nominated rapper and songwriter known for her raw lyrics and contributions to female empowerment in hip-hop. She's a prominent figure in the Bronx's hip-hop scene.

Jay-Z

56 Years Old

A renowned rapper, entrepreneur, and actor who co-founded a successful record label, known for his chart-topping hits and innovative business ventures. He's a cultural icon in the music industry, inspiring generations of artists and entrepreneurs.

DMX

55 Years Old

A talented rapper and actor who rose to fame in the late 1990s with his unique style and energetic performances, known for hits like "Ruff Ryders' Anthem" and roles in films like "Romeo Must Die".

Cam'ron

50 Years Old

A Harlem-born rapper and actor who rose to fame in the early 2000s with his flamboyant style and hits like "Oh Boy" and "Hey Ma", starring in films like "Paid in Full".

Jadakiss

50 Years Old

A skilled lyricist and member of the LOX, known for his distinctive voice and thought-provoking lyrics that often address social issues and street life.