Rick Ross has solidified himself as one of the most electrifying artist of this generation. From hustlin' every day to riding in Maybachs, Rick Ross has positioned himself to be a boss. He is the front man of Maybach Music Group and has created one of the leading Hip-Hop collectives. Lately, Ross has been making minimal public appearances. He's been focused on living a healthier lifestyle and has been working on some things under the radar.
It was revealed that Rick Ross will be the executive producer for Nas’ new album, The Lost Tapes 2. Ross and Nas have collaborated a few times in the past. This seems like a natural progression in their relationship. Ross has always been known for selecting some of the best beats and concepts for his own albums. This will allow Nas to appeal to a new type of audience and it will give Ross a chance to broaden his expertise to behind the boards. In an interview, Ross shared his feelings about producing the new Nas album,
“You know, Nas is so great as an MC. He’s a legend, so I wouldn’t even play with that, because of course you know Rozay will f—ing do it!”
“You know I would love to do it, but more importantly, the way Nas moves is so calculated. I feel like everything he does is perfect timing. He’s a legend, and I would love to. You know it’s whatever for the big homie.”
Nas’ album is done and was announced via DJ Khaled album. Now we have to wait and hear the final product. Aside from being the executive producer for Nas’ new album, Ross made a label switch this year. After ten years of being part of the Def Jam family, he left. He soon after signed with Epic Records. Despite Ross’ declining album sale L.A. Reid did not hesitate when presented with the opportunity to sign him. Reid explained his decision during an interview on The Breakfast Club.
“I’m supportive of the culture,” Reid said. “I like to think of myself as not a fair weather friend, but as a real friend and a person that’s really committed to your career. It doesn’t matter to me. Even if it isn’t massive success, do these artists deserve a home? I look at it this way: The Rolling Stones don’t have to look for a recording contract. Bruce Springsteen doesn’t have to look for a contract and he’s been in the business for how many years, right. So I don’t want any black talent to wonder ‘Why don’t I have a home?’ Barbra Streisand still has a home. Does she still sell like that? Not sure that she does or doesn’t. That’s not my business. The point is, she has a home. She’s taken care of. It’s my job to take care of artists.
With his new found label home, Ross got back to making music. This time, he contributed to the soundtrack for one of the most anticipated movies this year, Suicide Squad. He teamed up with Skrillex to create “Purple Lamborghini” which is a step into the EDM world for Rick Ross. He most recently is featured on The LOX’s new song “Feel My Pain.”
It was a year of change and expansion for Rick Ross. The Bawse had many hats on, as usual, and stepping out of his genre and typical rapper role should prove to be beneficial for his career. Rick Ross has had a quiet year as far as music goes, but he has been behind the scenes setting up a productive 2017.