Mase, also known as Mason Durell Betha, is an American rapper, songwriter, and minister who rose to fame in the late 1990s as a protégé of Sean “Diddy” Combs. He is best known for his debut album Harlem World, which sold over four million copies and spawned hit singles like “Feel So Good,” “What You Want,” and “Lookin’ at Me.” Mase was also a member of the rap group The Harlem World, which included his twin sister, Stason, and other artists from his hometown.
Mase’s Early Life and Career
Mase was born on August 27, 1975, in Jacksonville, Florida. He grew up in Harlem, New York, facing many challenges and hardships. After two semesters, he dropped out of college and decided to pursue a rap career. He met Diddy in 1996 and signed to his label Bad Boy Records. He quickly became one of the most famous rappers in the industry, collaborating with artists like Notorious B.I.G., Mariah Carey, Jay-Z, and D.M.X.
Mase released his second album, Double Up, in 1999, which featured guest appearances from Lil’ Kim, Busta Rhymes, and 8Ball & M.J.G. The album was less successful than his first one but sold over one million copies. However, shortly after its release, Mase shocked his fans by announcing his retirement from rap and his conversion to Christianity. He said he felt disillusioned by the materialism and violence of the hip-hop culture and wanted to dedicate his life to God.
Mase’s Ministry and Comeback Attempts
Mase moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where he founded a ministry called S.A.N.E. (Saving a Nation Endangered). He also married Twyla Betha, a singer and songwriter, in 2001. They had two children together but later divorced in 2014. Mase became an ordained minister and preached at various churches across the country. He also wrote a book titled Revelations: There’s a Light After the Lime, which detailed his spiritual journey.
However, Mase did not wholly abandon his rap career. He made several comeback attempts, releasing albums like Welcome Back (2004) and Now We Even (2014). He also appeared on songs by Kanye West, 50 Cent, G-Unit, Drake, and French Montana. He had several disputes with Diddy over his contract and royalties and with other rappers like Cam’ron and Jim Jones. Mase also faced criticism from some fans and fellow Christians for his inconsistent image and message.
Mase’s Net Worth in 2023
As of 2023, Mase’s net worth is estimated at around $8 million. The rapper accumulated wealth from his music career in the late 90s and early 2000s. He also earned money from book sales, speaking engagements, and endorsements. However, he also lost some of his fortune due to legal issues, taxes, divorce settlement, and bad investments.
Mase is still active in the music industry, as well as in the ministry. He recently signed a deal with Death Row Records2, the legendary label once home to Tupac Shakur, Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre. He also announced that he is working on a new album called The Oracle III3, featuring collaborations with Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, Lil Wayne, and Nicki Minaj. Mase hopes to reclaim his status as one of the best rappers ever and spread his faith through his music.
Mase is one of the most influential and controversial figures in hip-hop history. He has achieved success and fame as a rapper and as a pastor. He has also faced challenges and struggles as a human being. His net worth reflects his achievements as well as his mistakes. He is a living example of how one can rise from the bottom to the top and back again.