Rick Ross

Rick Ross defends his Biggie tribute, ‘Nobody’

Rick Ross has made his love for 90s hip-hop apparent throughout his career. His latest album, Mastermind, features a tribute to the late Notorious B.I.G. called “Nobody.” While some have balked at Rozay’s Biggie-isms–to the point where they have criticized him for ripping off B.I.G.’s persona–Ross has always maintained that this is his way of paying homage to one of the greats of hip-hop history.

What are you listening to? Rick Ross’ ‘Mastermind’

Rick Ross returns with Mastermind, his highly-anticipated sixth studio album and follow-up to 2012’s God Forgives, I Don’t. On his latest project, Ross continues his musical trademarks–the ones that have served him so well up to this point and helped to establish his persona. Rozay is still very much into excess, he wallows and revels in it. Wealth and consumption are at the forefront of his mind, yet again, and depending on your taste, it can sound either invigorating or woefully tiresome by the time you get mid-way through Mastermind.

Ranking Rozay: Rick Ross’ albums, worst to best

Rick Ross has been remarkably consistent throughout his career. It may seem like “damning with faint praise,” but if it can be argued that Rick Ross lacks a bonafide hip-hop classic in his catalog, it should be noted that he doesn’t really have any bombs, either. By now, Ross fans know what they are getting with each release; songs about coke dealing and hustling and living lavishly. If that’s not your thing, then Ross just isn’t for you.

Cam’ron and Nas reveal rappers understand that beef kills business

A few notable rappers with histories of feuding have made very public declarations distancing themselves from their combative pasts. In late 2013, Southern hip-hop superstars Rick Ross and Jeezy began to close the book on their beef; one that began in 2010 with what both have since labeled a misunderstanding. And this week, two New York-based rhymers with a history of tension finally put their feud to rest, as well.

Andy Mineo talks religion, rap and the ‘Christian rapper’ stigma

Andy Mineo is a rhyme animal. The Syracuse-born, NYC-based emcee is a natural lyricist, and it’s evident on Never Land, his latest project. Chatting it up at Alex Steakhouse in Washington Heights, Mineo was candid and open about his faith, his music and the stigma associated with Christian emcees. And the rapper explains why the EP has been his most fully realized work to date.