Mase Net Worth

Mase Net Worth: A Deep Dive into the Rapper’s Career and Finances

What is Mase’s Net Worth?

Mase, also known as Ma$e, is a multifaceted American artist, recognized for his successful career as a rapper, songwriter, TV personality, inspirational speaker, and minister. As of 2024, Mase’s net worth is estimated to be $8 million. His journey to financial success is intricately linked to his impact on the music industry, particularly during the late 1990s when he rose to prominence under the guidance of Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs and his record label, Bad Boy Records.

Early Life and Background

Mason Durell Betha, the artist known as Mase, was born on August 27, 1975, in Jacksonville, Florida. His upbringing was marked by familial changes and transitions. After his parents, P.K. Betha and Mason Betha, separated when he was just three years old, Mase’s mother relocated the family to Harlem, New York. Harlem became the backdrop for Mase’s childhood and early adolescence. However, his mother sent him back to Jacksonville when he was thirteen, due to behavioral issues. He spent two years living with relatives in Florida before returning to Harlem at the age of fifteen. During his high school years, he showed talent in basketball, dreaming of a future in the NBA. Despite his athletic aspirations, Mase’s path shifted towards music during his time at the State University of New York at Purchase. He eventually dropped out of college to fully dedicate himself to music.

Music Career: From Harlem World to G-Unit

Mase’s foray into music began during his high school years as a member of the rap group Children of the Corn, alongside fellow Harlem artists such as Big L, Herb McGruff, and Cam’ron. During this period, he was known by the stage name “Murda Mase.” His career took a pivotal turn in 1996, when his sister Stason introduced him to Cudda Love, who managed The Notorious B.I.G. Cudda Love facilitated Mase’s introduction to Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs at a rap convention in Atlanta. Impressed by Mase’s rapping skills, Combs signed him to Bad Boy Records with a $250,000 deal. Under Combs’ guidance, “Murda Mase” was shortened to “Mase,” and he quickly began to make his mark in the industry. He featured in music videos and tracks, including 112’s “Only You,” The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Mo Money Mo Problems,” and Puff Daddy’s “Can’t Nobody Hold Me Down” and “Been Around the World.”

His debut album, “Harlem World,” was released in October 1997, reaching the top of the Billboard charts and selling over 270,000 copies in its first week. The album’s success was further validated by its Grammy nomination and four-time Platinum certification by the RIAA. The album also produced chart-topping singles like “Feel So Good” and “Lookin’ at Me.” That same year, Mase collaborated with other artists, including Mariah Carey on “Honey,” Brian McKnight on “You Should Be Mine (Don’t Waste Your Time),” and Brandy on “Top of the World.”

In 1998, Mase founded All Out Records, his own record label, which signed artists like the group Harlem World, which included his sister Stason. He released his second album, “Double Up,” in 1999, which featured more aggressive lyrics. Despite selling well, Mase took a five-year hiatus from music in April 1999, announcing his retirement to pursue his faith. During this time, he studied at Clark Atlanta University and became an ordained minister.

Mase’s return to music in 2004 with his third album, “Welcome Back,” marked a shift in his musical style and image, reflecting his Christian lifestyle. In an unexpected turn, he collaborated with the New York hip-hop group G-Unit, whose members included 50 Cent, Tony Yayo, and Lloyd Banks. During the mid-2000s, he embraced the more hardcore image of G-Unit, which contrasted with his “clean” approach, aiming to connect with a different audience and demonstrate the possibility of personal transformation. In December 2012, Mase announced his departure from Bad Boy Records.

(Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)

In 2007, Mase left the music industry again, but made a comeback in 2009, inspired by Michael Jackson’s death. He contributed as a featured artist on numerous tracks, including “Uptown Boy” by Harry O, the street remix of “Best I Ever Had” by Drake, “Get It” by Big Ran, and the street remix of “Diamonds” by Teairra Mari and Kanye West, among others.

Other Ventures: Ministry and Business

Beyond music, Mase has engaged in several other ventures. In 2010, he published his book, “Revelations: There’s a Light After the Lime.” In 2000, he established S.A.N.E. (Saving A Nation Endangered) Church in Atlanta, Georgia, later renamed El Elyon International Church, where he serves as a pastor.

RichFish Records

Mase also runs RichFish Records, an imprint under Columbia Records. A significant move for the label was the signing of Fivio Foreign in 2019, reportedly for a $1 million contract.

Personal Life

Mase has been married to Twyla G Styles since 2001, and the couple has one child together.

The Feud with Diddy

In January 2020, Mase publicly criticized Diddy on Instagram, following Diddy’s speech at a Grammy pre-party, where he addressed the music industry’s exploitation of young artists, particularly those of color. Mase’s post highlighted his claims of financial exploitation by Diddy during the 1990s, including the sale of his publishing rights for a reported $20,000. Mase also revealed that he offered Diddy $2 million to regain his publishing rights, but faced competition from another offer. His post further emphasized his dissatisfaction:

• “This is not black excellence at all. When our race is enslaving us. If it’s about us owning, it can’t be about us owning each other.”
• “No more hiding behind ‘love.’ U CHANGED? GIVE THE ARTIST BACK THEIR $$$. So they can take care of their families.”

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Conclusion

Mase’s career, marked by periods of musical success, spiritual pursuits, and entrepreneurial ventures, reflects a complex narrative. His net worth, the result of a multi-faceted career, continues to be a topic of interest. His feud with Diddy adds another layer to his story, highlighting the intricate dynamics of the music industry and the artists’ struggles for financial control and recognition.