Mase, known for his slow and relaxed flow, rose to fame as a Bad Boy label favorite through guest appearances on hit singles before his debut album was released. Despite mixed critical reviews, his debut album "Harlem World" was a commercial success, going platinum four times over. Mase shocked the music industry by announcing his retirement to pursue a career in the ministry just before the release of his second album, "Double Up," which saw disappointing sales.
Born Mason Durrell Betha in Jacksonville, FL, Mase's rap career began in New York after joining a group called Children of the Corn. He caught the attention of Sean "Puffy" Combs, leading to numerous guest features on Bad Boy releases and other projects. Mase's decision to retire from music to focus on his ministry work marked a significant shift in his career, leading to a more low-key presence in the music industry.