Mase Albums: A Look At The Harlem Rapper's Discography

Let's dive into the world of Mase and his albums. Mase, also known as Murda Mase, burst onto the music scene in the late 1990s, becoming a prominent figure in the hip-hop landscape. His unique flow, catchy hooks, and charismatic persona quickly made him a fan favorite. We're going to explore each of his studio albums, looking at their impact, notable tracks, and overall place in hip-hop history. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the discography of this Harlem legend!

Harlem World (1997)

Harlem World, Mase's debut album, dropped in 1997 and was an instant smash hit. This album perfectly captured the flashy, glamorous vibe of the late '90s hip-hop scene, and Mase was right at the forefront of it all. From the very beginning, Harlem World established Mase as a major player. The album's production was top-notch, featuring beats that were both smooth and danceable, making it a commercial juggernaut and a critical success.

The album opens with the title track, "Harlem World," immediately immersing listeners in the energy of Mase's home turf. This track is more than just an introduction; it’s an anthem that celebrates Harlem's culture and influence. From the infectious beat to Mase’s confident delivery, "Harlem World" sets the tone for the entire album. Other standout tracks include "Feel So Good," a collaboration with Kelly Price, which became a massive radio hit with its catchy hook and feel-good vibes. The song's success was driven by its smooth blend of hip-hop and R&B, making it a staple at parties and on the airwaves. “What You Want” featuring Total showcased Mase’s ability to create hits with strong female vocalists, blending his slick verses with the group's harmonies. The track's popularity was boosted by its memorable chorus and relatable themes of love and desire. Also, we cannot forget "24 Hrs. to Live," featuring The Lox, DMX, and Black Rob, which added a gritty edge to the album, demonstrating Mase's versatility and ability to collaborate with some of the hardest-hitting names in the game. These collaborations not only enhanced the album's appeal but also solidified Mase's position within the broader hip-hop community.

The impact of Harlem World was undeniable. It not only topped the Billboard charts but also helped to redefine the sound of mainstream hip-hop. Mase's laid-back delivery and effortless charisma resonated with a wide audience, making him a household name. The album's success paved the way for other artists from Harlem and helped to solidify Bad Boy Records' dominance in the late '90s. Harlem World remains a classic, remembered for its catchy hooks, smooth production, and Mase's undeniable star power. It's an essential listen for anyone interested in the history of hip-hop and the sound of the late '90s.

Double Up (1999)

In 1999, Mase followed up his debut with Double Up. This album arrived with a lot of anticipation, as fans were eager to see if Mase could recreate the magic of Harlem World. While Double Up didn't reach the same commercial heights as its predecessor, it still had some memorable moments and showcased Mase's evolution as an artist. Though it faced challenges in living up to the monumental success of Harlem World, Double Up remains an important chapter in Mase's career, highlighting his growth and adaptability in a rapidly changing music industry.

One of the standout tracks from Double Up is "Get Ready," which features Blackstreet. This song has a smooth, infectious beat that makes it hard not to nod your head. The collaboration with Blackstreet adds a layer of R&B flavor that complements Mase's laid-back flow perfectly. The song's catchy chorus and smooth production made it a radio favorite, helping to keep Mase in the spotlight. Another notable track is " Църква," featuring Mona Lisa. This song deviates from Mase's usual flashy style, delving into more introspective themes. Mase reflects on his life and fame. The track's thoughtful lyrics and Mona Lisa's soulful vocals make it a standout moment on the album. Finally, "Breathe, Stretch, Shake" is an upbeat track that showcases Mase's playful side. Its high-energy beat and catchy lyrics make it a fun listen. The song's lively vibe made it a popular choice for parties and clubs, adding a different dimension to the album's overall sound.

Double Up faced a different landscape than Harlem World. The music industry was changing, and hip-hop was evolving. While the album didn't have the same cultural impact as its predecessor, it showed Mase's willingness to experiment and grow. Double Up is a solid album in its own right, featuring catchy tracks and collaborations that highlight Mase's strengths. It may not be as iconic as Harlem World, but it's still a worthwhile addition to any Mase fan's collection.

Welcome Back (2004)

After a hiatus from the music industry, Mase made his return in 2004 with Welcome Back. This album marked a significant chapter in Mase's career, as he had stepped away from music to pursue religious studies. Welcome Back was highly anticipated, and it explored themes of faith, redemption, and his renewed perspective on life. Mase's return was met with both excitement and curiosity, making Welcome Back a notable moment in his discography.

The title track, "Welcome Back," set the tone for the album. It directly addresses Mase's return to music and his newfound faith. The lyrics are introspective and honest, giving listeners a glimpse into his personal journey. The track's heartfelt message resonated with many, making it a powerful statement of his transformation. "Breathe (Again)" is another standout track that delves into themes of reflection and renewal. The song's smooth beat and thoughtful lyrics create a calming and uplifting atmosphere, showcasing Mase's growth as an artist and as a person. Featuring Kelly Price, "Feels So Good" revisits the vibe of his earlier hit, offering a nostalgic yet fresh sound. The collaboration with Price brings a familiar warmth, while the updated production gives the song a contemporary feel. This track bridges the gap between Mase's past and present, making it a memorable moment on the album.

Welcome Back was a success, showing that Mase still had a strong fan base and a unique voice in hip-hop. The album's themes of faith and redemption resonated with many listeners, and it solidified Mase's place as an artist who wasn't afraid to be true to himself. It's an important album in his discography, showcasing his personal growth and artistic evolution. This album highlighted Mase's ability to stay relevant while staying true to his evolving values.

Now That's What's Up (2014)

After a long period of delays and anticipation, Mase released Now That's What's Up in 2014. This album aimed to bring Mase back to the forefront of hip-hop, showcasing his evolution while staying true to his signature style. Now That's What's Up sought to blend his classic Harlem sound with contemporary influences, appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners. Despite facing numerous challenges in its release, the album remains a notable part of Mase's journey.

"Nothing" featuring Eric Bellinger, embodies a fusion of classic and contemporary hip-hop elements. Bellinger's vocals complement Mase's verses, creating a track that appeals to both longtime fans and new listeners. The song's catchy hook and smooth production make it a standout moment on the album. Another notable track, "Why Can't I," reflects on personal struggles and industry challenges. Mase's introspective lyrics offer a glimpse into his mindset, showcasing his growth as an artist and as a person. Also, "Hallelujah" brings Mase's faith to the forefront, blending gospel influences with his signature hip-hop style. The song's uplifting message and soulful production make it a powerful and inspiring track.

Despite facing numerous delays and changes, Now That's What's Up represents Mase's resilience and dedication to his craft. The album showcases his growth as an artist while staying true to his signature style. While it may not have reached the commercial heights of his earlier work, Now That's What's Up is a testament to Mase's enduring presence in the hip-hop world. It highlights his ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to his artistic vision.

Conclusion

Mase's journey through the music industry has been nothing short of remarkable. From the explosive debut of Harlem World to the introspective Welcome Back and the resilient Now That's What's Up, each album tells a unique story about his life and career. Mase has proven himself to be a versatile artist who isn't afraid to evolve and experiment. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, there's no denying Mase's impact on hip-hop. So, take some time to explore his discography and discover the sounds of this Harlem legend. You won't be disappointed!