Mase (Welcome Back) - Reviews

Mase
Welcome Back

In 1997, P. Diddy and Mase ruled the Hip Hop world. They were the Batman and Robin of hip hop, dropping hit after hit after hit. Mase went on to release two solo efforts which continued building his legacy within Bad Boy.

And then everything changed as Mase accepted Christ in 1999 and immediately gave up his rap career.

Five years later, Mase, also known as Dr. Mason Betha, is now the pastor of S.A.N.E. (Saving a Nation Endangered) Church International and ministering the Word of God around the nation.

On top of all of that, he's back with Bad Boy Entertainment (jointly with his own label, Fo' Reel Entertainment) with his first release since his conversion, appropriately titled Welcome Back. So, what's the deal with this project? Has Pastor Betha sold out for the bling bling of the industry he once renounced?

This album will really challenge the believer to define Gospel music. By its retail classification, this is 'just another rap project'. But each song is subtly laced with the influence of Christ that shows that Betha has only sold out to Christ. So, if you're declaring Christ as Lord of all, that, in essence, is the Gospel.

But you need proof, right?

Don't be fooled by the slick packaging. Mase still has his trademark lyrical delivery. His laidback, smooth delivery has not changed at all. His love for sampling is increasingly evident as he samples the TV theme "Welcome Back Kotter" as the backdrop for the title track of this project. Throughout this song, and on many others, Mase drops several nuggets that will plant serious seeds in the minds of every listener.

Editorial: Jesus Walks

What about Mase? One might say that seeing that Mase as a pastor, has a responsibility to tell the world about Christ. That's a valid point, but you must realize that there's more than one way to witness about Christ. When we got saved, did we leave our jobs? ..

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For example, in the title track, he admonishes to be careful of looking for soulmates as it can lead to creating soulties. The funky "Breathe, Stretch, Shake" features labelmate and longtime partner P. Diddy. On this track, Mase acknowledges his conversion to Christ as well as referring to the favor that he has received from God. He also acknowledges his purpose as he compares himself to Moses —back in the game to bring back the law.

Similar to artists like GRITS and Tunnel Rats, Mase focuses on producing exciting music, addressing life issues, and subtly, yet effectively, offering Christ as the solution. "Keep It On" lets listeners know that you can keep your clothes on and have a good time. Certainly, in a sex-crazed music environment, young people need to be reminded of this Christ-inspired message.

"Money Comes and Goes" speaks to Mase's belief in the prosperity of the believer. He lets listeners know that while others look to make money the world's way, he will follow God's way. He speaks of being in covenant with Christ and that would be his key to blessings. "I Wanna Go" is Mase's love song to his wife. He readily admits to his love to his wife and boldly declares it to the world.

"Do You Remember" features Cardan and has Mase reflecting back to 1996 and noting the changes in his life since then. He cites that he's back to save the city like Sodom and Gomorrah. "I Owe" is a bumpin' track that cites Mase's purpose. He states that he's back in the industry to show sinners about the joy of a changed life. He speaks to his need to minister and continually tithe.

And then all subtlety goes out the window with "Gotta Survive". Within the last 45 seconds of this track, the pastor in Mase emerges. He recognizes that the world may not want to hear his message but he declares that the world knows no success unless they know Jesus.

So, indeed it's a pleasure to Welcome Back Mase to the hip hop game. What better soldier to infiltrate the enemy's camp than a born again believer who is prepared to Save a Nation Endangered.

Regardless of the musical classifcation of this project, it unequivocally shares the Gospel in a manner that will reach the lost right where they are. With that said, the artistry combined with the effective subtlety of Mase's message makes this one a collector's item as well as conversation piece for a long time to come.

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Producers: Various album release date: August 2004
Bad Boy Entertainment/Fo' Reel Entertainment

— reviewed by Gerard Bonner —