On this date in 1991, New Orleans rap icon Percy “Master P” Miller released his first album entitled Get Away Clean on his independently established No Limit Records.
Featuring his own NOLA-based crew TRU (The Real Untouchables), who just happened to include himself and his brothers Silkk The Shocker and C-Murder, Get Away Clean was the first release from No Limit Records and distributed through the Oakland, California-based In A Minute Records.
The 14 track, the underground project was a hit in the hustling spots but never received any commercial success like any of the other post “Ice Cream Man” No Limit releases.
Salute to Mr. Miller and the rest of his No Limit family for bringing us such a timeless piece of Hip Hop history!
Rap icons Master P and Snoop Dogg are filing a lawsuit against Walmart. The two revealed the news in a press conference today, and alleged that Walmart purposely hid their cereal they launched last year with their brand, Broadus Foods.
According to the reported suit, which was filed by attorney Ben Crump, Walmart and major food brand Post partnered with Broadus Foods to distribute the cereal in the super retailer, however, intentionally stocked their cereals in shelves and areas that weren’t immediately visible to customers.
“Broadus Foods is seeking damages suffered by the deceptive trade practices under various causes of action,” reads a press release on Crump’s website.
According to a report from TMZ, Walmart showed the cereal, called Snoop Cereal, to be sold out at various Walmart locations, however, employees reportedly discovered cases of Snoop cereal in the back room of a Walmart store, allegedly uncoded for sales.
At the time of writing, it appears Walmart has not been served with a complaint yet.
“Walmart values our relationships with our suppliers, and we have a strong history of supporting entrepreneurs,” said a Walmart representative to TMZ. “Many factors affect the sales of any given product, including consumer demand, seasonality, and price to name a few. We will respond as appropriate with the Court once we are served with the complaint.”
Additionally, Post also issued a statement to TMZ, claiming that consumer demand did not match what Post and Walmart had initially imagined.
“Post Consumer Brands was excited to partner with Broadus Foods and we made substantial investments in the business. We were equally disappointed that consumer demand did not meet expectations.”
Snoop and Master P were reportedly expecting their cereal to be stacked with other leading brands, however now feel that Post and Walmart only agreed to the partnership to shut them out of the market.
Believe it or not, rap icon Master P has history with the NBA. In the late ‘90s, the music industry witnessed an unprecedented crossover as the rap mogul set his sights on an unexpected arena: the basketball court. Breaking away from the confines of his booming music career, he embarked on a daring journey into the NBA. While it looked impossible, Master P has already proven with his previous endeavors that he’s no ordinary talent.
Decades have passed, and it seems one of his sons has picked up the athletic torch from Master P. Mercy Miller, 18, recently set an all-time school record for Notre Dame High after scoring 68 points in a game. Obviously, the young baller is a gifted athlete and may likely have a basketball career that surpasses his father’s. Master P’s history with professional basketball is relatively short. Nonetheless, his stint in that field remains iconic and surprises most who hear about it for the first time. Here’s how the No Limit CEO broke into the league.
Master P Before The NBA
Master P during Billboard Awards ’98 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc)
A luminary of the entertainment world, Master P emerged from the gritty streets of New Orleans to become a juggernaut in the music industry. In 1991, he founded No Limit Records, an independent label that soon became a powerhouse. With chart-topping artists like Snoop Dogg, Mystikal, and himself, Master P is a dominant force in the Hip Hop industry. However, his ambitions extended beyond music.
Master P had a lifelong passion for basketball, having played at a high level during his youth. Although he dropped out mere months in, he got into the University of Houston on an athletic scholarship. Following his departure from the University of Houston, he moved to Merritt College, Oakland, where he majored in Business. However, despite his decision to focus on business, he never lost his passion for basketball.
In 1998, the rapper joined the Fort Wayne Fury in the CBA (Continental Basketball Association). The person who helped make that happen was an employee of No Limits Records called Tim Redo. Being that Redo was friends with Keith Smart, the head coach of the CBA’s Fort Wayne Fury, he could put in a good word for his boss. That was the beginning of Master P’s journey into professional basketball.
He exhibited proficiency on the field, though he didn’t quite reach superstar status in the minor league. Regardless, Master P was undeterred by skeptics who doubted his ability to transition into the NBA and decided to pursue his dream head-on.
Training & Tryouts
In early 1999, the rapper got his chance when he joined the Charlotte Hornets’ training camp roster. To prepare for the NBA, Master P dedicated himself to the intense training regimen provided. Although his time with the Hornets was short, he participated in scrimmages and even appeared in two exhibition games against the Atlanta Hawks. The rapper did not play college basketball and was significantly older than most rookies. However, Master P showcased his skills and demonstrated that he could hold his own on the court against NBA prospects.
In the summer of 1999, he finally earned a spot on the preseason roster of the Toronto Raptors. He participated in the preseason game for the Raptors against the Vancouver Grizzlies and even scored eight points off the bench but was ultimately let go before the season started. After being dropped by the Raptors, for a short while, he went on to play with the San Diego Stingrays of the International Basketball League later that year.
Legacy Beyond The Court
Unfortunately, Master P did not fulfill his dream of joining the NBA despite coming very close. His basketball career was short-lived, and the teams waived him before the season even began. Also, he never managed to formally sign an NBA contract or secure a spot on a regular-season roster. However, his journey remains a testament to the power of determination and its ability to break barriers. Additionally, Master P has since coached three NBA pros: DeMar DeRozan, Lance Stephenson, and Brandon Jennings. While he may not have been able to see his NBA career come to fruition, Master P significantly contributed to the careers of these three players.
Conclusion
Master P’s NBA career may have been unconventional and short-lived, but it remains an intriguing chapter in the larger story of the rapper. The No Limit CEO’s brief stint in professional basketball is a part of the impressive legacy he has built for himself over the years. His foray into professional basketball has certainly added to his versatile public image as a rapper, entrepreneur, and athlete. Without a doubt, it was a great moment in history to witness the multifaceted talents of an icon.
On this date in 2000, West Coast rap giant Snoop Dogg released his fifth full-length studio album entitled The Last Meal, which was released on Master P’s Dirty South, independent powerhouse, No Limit Records, as well as the first album on Snoop’s Doggystyle Records. This album was released during the “dog days” of Death Row, with Snoop and Dre parting ways with their former boss and label owner Suge Knight. The album was leaked on the internet on December 1, 2000, by Suge Knight who made all tracks downloadable in MP3 from the official site of his and Snoop Dogg’s former company Death Row Records, which featured links to tracks from both Tha Last Meal and Dead Man Walkin’ albums, asking visitors to “take The Snoop Dogg Challenge” and decide “song for song” which is the better album.
There was some heavy production on the album, with tracks primarily from Dr. Dre and Master P, adding Timbaland and Soopafly to the unique flavor of this project as well. The most recognizable track from the album was “Lay Low” a melodic track featuring Butch Cassidy, The Outsidaz with Nate Dogg singing the hook and Dr. Dre behind the boards, capturing that original G-funk sound of the 213.
Salute to Snoop, Master P, Dre and the entire No Limit/Death Row teams who helps mold this timeless classic!
As the 1990s hip-hop scene flourished, Master P’s album MP Da Last Don stood as a testament to his formidable presence in the industry. Released in 1998, this double album not only showcased Master P’s entrepreneurial acumen as the head of No Limit Records but also his ability to create music that resonated with the streets and the charts alike. MP Da Last Don was a crowning achievement in a career defined by both relentless ambition and a keen ear for the evolving landscape of rap.
This album marked a significant chapter in Master P’s career, blending the raw energy of Southern hip-hop with elements that appealed to a broader, mainstream audience. It was an audacious project, ambitious in scope and rich in collaboration, featuring a roster of artists who would come to define the No Limit sound. MP Da Last Don was more than just an album. It was a cultural milestone encapsulating the essence of an era in hip-hop.
MP Da Last Don: Crafting A Hip-Hop Milestone
Master P’s MP Da Last Don was a monumental release in late ’90s hip-hop, showcasing his unique ability to blend hard-hitting Southern beats with a flair for mainstream appeal. The double album format allowed for an expansive exploration of styles and themes, with Master P’s signature gritty storytelling at the forefront. The production, characterized by its bass-heavy beats and layered melodies, created a sound that was both street-authentic and commercially viable.
The album boasted an array of standout tracks that highlighted Master P’s versatility as an artist. Songs like “Thinkin’ Bout U” and “Soldiers, Riders, and G’s” featured Master P’s trademark blend of assertive lyrics and rhythmic hooks, while “Da Last Don” and “Let’s Get ‘Em” showcased his skill in crafting anthemic tunes. These tracks were not just expressions of Master P’s artistry but also reflections of the broader narratives and experiences within the hip-hop community.
Collaborations played a significant role in MP Da Last Don, with appearances from Snoop Dogg, Silkk the Shocker, and Mystikal, among others. These collaborations added diverse voices to the album and demonstrated Master P’s influence and connections within the industry. The album served as a platform for both established and emerging artists, solidifying No Limit Records’ status as a powerhouse in the hip-hop world.
Chart Triumph & Critical Acclaim
MP Da Last Don marked a high point in Master P’s career, achieving significant commercial success. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. It was a testament to its widespread appeal and Master P’s growing fan base. It quickly achieved multi-platinum status, further solidifying Master P’s reputation as a major player in the hip-hop industry. This commercial success was indicative of the growing influence of Southern hip-hop in the mainstream music scene of the late 1990s.
Critically, MP Da Last Don was met with mixed reviews. However, it was undeniable that the album captured the essence of a changing era in hip-hop. Critics recognized the significance of Master P’s work in bridging the gap between the underground and mainstream rap scenes. The album was noted for its bold production choices and Master P’s unapologetic portrayal of street life. It further resonated with audiences looking for authenticity in hip-hop.
The success of MP Da Last Don also underscored Master P’s savvy as a businessman and a visionary in the music industry. His approach to marketing the album and his broader entrepreneurial endeavors set new standards for independent artists in the industry. The album’s impact was not limited to its sales. It also played a crucial role in establishing Master P’s legacy as a pioneer in the business of hip-hop.
The Enduring Legacy Of MP Da Last Don
The influence of Master P’s MP Da Last Don extends far beyond its initial release. As a milestone in Master P’s career and the broader landscape of hip-hop, the album is a testament to his ability to capture the zeitgeist of the late 1990s. It exemplified the rise of Southern hip-hop, bringing a distinct sound and narrative to the forefront of the genre.
MP Da Last Don played a significant role in shaping hip-hop’s identity and business model. Master P’s entrepreneurial spirit, combined with his musical talent, challenged the traditional structures of the music industry. His success with this album and No Limit Records inspired a generation of artists.
Moreover, the album’s cultural impact is evident in its lasting appeal. Tracks from MP Da Last Don continue to have influenced various artists across genres. Master P’s legacy is not just that of a rapper but of a visionary who expanded the possibilities for what hip-hop could achieve both artistically and commercially.
There’s been a lot of news surrounding Deion Sanders this year. The former football great turned to coaching and this year was hired to take over the Colorado Buffaloes. While results on the field have been mixed he’s had his moments and more importantly, has brought his signature over-the-top swagger to everything he does.
He’s also been a part of quite a few advertisements and promotional deals. Consequently, the most recent is now his involvement with Master P and Snoop Dogg’s cereal. Snoop created a special version of his Snoop Cereal celebrating the rapper called the “Prime Time Honey-O Snax.” P pulled up to Coach Prime personally to hand deliver the cereal. “Me and Snoop decided we putting you on the Snoop Cereal box. I’m just telling you, you got your own box now, coach,” he says to a surprised and amused Sanders. Check out the full clip below.
Additionally, this isn’t the only way that Snoop Dogg and Master P have been linked recently. Master P claimed that he once visited Suge Knight while he was in jail and offered him $2 million in exchange for Snoop signing to No Limit Records. But Suge Knight is refuting the claim in an episode of his new podcast. ” I never would have took no sh*t like that for Snoop. I got a whole list if anybody ever visits me. You got to be approved. That n*gga is not on none of it,” he used as his evidence for the claim being false.
Snoop Dogg has also continued dispensing advice to the newer generations of rappers. He had some wise words to share with Latto during a recent heart to heart telling her she had to “be a smarter businesswoman” during a conversation between the pair. What do you think of the gift Snoop Dogg and Master P gave to Deion Sanders? Let us know in the comment section below.
Master P’s marketing tactics have made him a successful entrepreneur, but there can be drawbacks. Like his recent encounter with the police while visiting Walmart. On Sunday (August 13), the No Limit founder took to Instagram to share his recent experience. In the clip, the rapper explains to the police that he was there to “check in” on his latest business venture — Snoop Cereal. In July 2022, the pair teamed up to create a cereal brand inspired by the West Coast rapper.
“12 pulled up @walmart ask’n what’s going on! #legittrapping @snoopcereal @snoopdogg they can have the streets we’re taking over the grocery stores.#godisgood,” he wrote in the post’s caption. It’s still unclear what exactly warranted the call, but the police seemed more than willing to listen to Master P’s schpeel. He noted that he was trying to teach his “Black brothers out there how to get their hustle on, how to do it right … Snoop Dogg’s my partner. We changing the game.”
Master P And Snoop Dogg Launched The Cereal Brand In 2022
Snoop Cereal has seen some major growth since launching last July. Nearly six months later, the brand would secure a national distribution deal. Prior to its recent success, the fledging company struggled to get off the ground. Initially, the brand was coined “Snoop Loopz,” but the business partners would later be forced to change the product’s name. Neither musician has revealed which brand caused the duo to change the brand’s name.
“So they don’t want us to use Snoop Loopz on our cereal box even though that’s that’s my name,” Snoop wrote in an Instagram post around the time. “We’ve built a national brand and disrupted the cereal industry, we did it with hard work and integrity. I know they’re uncomfortable and scared.” Snoop Dogg and Master P emphasized that Snoop Loopz was launched to bring diversity to the cereal industry while providing economic opportunity and, of course, a fun and nutritious breakfast option to their communities. “Our mission is to build diversity and economic empowerment,” the caption continued.
Master P and LeBron James may soon be together at high school basketball games. Master P revealed that his son Mercy Miller would join Bryce James at Notre Dame, forming a formidable high school basketball lineup.
Mercy and Bryce are both four-star recruits in California. Mercy is set to play in Houston, and Bryce is currently uncommitted. You can learn more about Mercy Miller here.
Google has its fair share of glitches, errors, mistakes, and a whole slew of other issues, but this one was at least quite amusing. Moreover, users realized that if you search Luther Vandross on Google, you end up getting a picture of No Limit Records mogul and rap icon Master P. Of course, it quickly went viral after it caught some steam, especially after none other than The Roots’ Questlove posted about it on his Instagram page. Amid an age of artificial intelligence and automation, the acclaimed creative reminded users that humans aren’t that easy to replace after all. “This is why humans aren’t replaceable,” Quest wrote under a screenshot of the boss of one of the most iconic labels in hip-hop history being confused for Luther Vandross by the tech giant.
In addition, his comments section flooded with jokes tying Master P and Luther Vandross together. “Here and now, I promise to Make em say ugh,” one user wrote in reference to their respective tracks, “Make Em Say Uhh!” and “Here and Now.” Another wrote, “He has No Limit to his Love Songs, with hits like ‘Make ‘Em Say Never Too Much.” Perhaps the funniest reference, though, brought Kanye West into the fray. “She said she want some Marvin Gaye, some No Limit Soldiers, a little Anita…will definitely set this party off right,” referencing “Slow Jamz.”
However, others expressed less amusement and more indignation online, blasting Google for mistaking Master P for Luther Vandross. While the general public doesn’t know how the search engine came to this conclusion (curation, an algorithmic mistake, etc.), many thought it to be racist given that they mixed up two Black men. “@Google who is responsible for this ?” one Twitter user demanded. “This is a picture of percy miller sr. aka master p, not luther vandross. I know yall think we all look alike but i can assure you we dont.”
Meanwhile, Master P revealed that he’s working on a No Limit TV series. “No Limit TV series coming soon,” he wrote on IG in March. “We’re still looking for people to play the Ice Cream man and other characters. The real Master P story from New Orleans to the Bay Area. @deontaylor We’re about to make history. #GODisgood.” “Power was a hit, BMF was a hit, salute to @50cent,” he stated in August upon its announcement. “Now the Master P No limit Tv series coming soon. Who y’all think should play the young Ice Cream Man? It can be an actor now or someone new. From New Orleans to the Bay Area the Real Story. Drama, romance, comedy, action and the American dream. When you put God first nothing is impossible.” For more on Master P and Luther Vandross (and hopefully less on Google’s antics), log back into HNHH.
Master P recently reflected on his past in an interview. In it, he shared a story of how he played a role in avoiding a potential tragedy involving Snoop Dogg. The No Limit CEO elaborated further on his Instagram. Furthermore, Master P emphasized that he had a hand in diffusing the situation between Snoop and his former label Death Row Records. However, he said it was ultimately Snoop’s humility and willingness to listen that saved the day.
In his interview, Master P referenced something Snoop said in his own interview with The Pivot podcast. The iconic West Coast rapper recounted the Death Row Records incident in that podcast. The rapper-producer acknowledged that he cautioned Snoop against releasing a diss record against his former label. Snoop had planned to release an album titled F*ck Death Row. However, Master P, recognizing the potential consequences, advised against it. He even recalled giving Snoop a significant sum of money. This demonstrated his support and respect. It also showed just how serious he was about trying to get Snoop not to release the diss album. Clearly, it would have meant serious repercussions for the rapper.
Snoop Dogg and Master P perform during the 2017 ESSENCE Festival Presented by Coca Cola at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on July 2, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Prince Williams/Filmmagic)
Snoop, acknowledging the wisdom of Master P’s advice, ultimately decided to shelve the album. He admitted that the idea was misguided and would have only led to further destruction. The rapper expressed his gratitude to Master P for intervening. Furthermore, he recognized that his actions had saved him from a potentially detrimental situation. Master P was motivated by his faith and a sense of doing what was right. He explained that he believed it was important for Snoop to show gratitude and acknowledge the opportunities he had been given.
In a subsequent interview, the producer and record exec further elaborated on the importance of integrity and gratitude, emphasizing the need to avoid conflict with other black men. He urged Snoop to embrace his role as a leader and make wise decisions. What do you think about the Death Row Records drama? Should Snoop have released the diss album? Would it really have put his life in danger? Sound off in the comments below!
