Master P Discusses Relationship with Birdman: A Legacy of Respect and Understanding
In a recent interview, hip-hop mogul Master P opened up about his long-standing relationship with fellow rapper Birdman, shedding light on their history and mutual respect. Speaking candidly, Master P emphasized that despite the ups and downs in the music industry, his admiration for Birdman and his contributions to the genre has remained unwavering.
Reflecting on their early days, Master P recounted how he recognized Birdman as a talented artist from the very beginning. “I knew him from day one,” he said, recalling the buzz around Birdman and his Cash Money Records label. While many assumed there was tension between the two, particularly during the competitive era of the ’90s, Master P clarified that he never engaged in beef through music: “I never beefed on records. I never rap,” he stated.
Instead of rivalry, Master P described a sense of understanding about the industry dynamics at play. He acknowledged that Birdman’s controversial lyrics were often directed at his competition but clarified that there was never an intention for him to retaliate lyrically. “I think he thought I was going to rap back with him,” Master P said, but he made it clear that his approach has always been different.
Despite their divergent paths, Master P expressed genuine happiness for Birdman’s success and the achievements of Cash Money Records. “I want to see them win. I want to see them eat,” he remarked, showcasing his commitment to supporting his peers in the industry. He also pointed out that both artists come from the same hood, highlighting a shared background that fosters a sense of community rather than animosity.
As the conversation shifted towards the current state of the music industry, Master P offered a sobering perspective on the financial realities faced by today’s artists. He highlighted that many musicians are still relying on revenue generated from music sold decades ago, rather than the current streaming model. “If you get a million downloads, a million streams at a penny, how much you have?” he questioned, illustrating the stark contrast between past and present earnings in the industry.
Master P’s message to younger artists was clear: ownership is key. He urged them to take control of their careers and finances to break free from the cycle of dependency on record labels. “We can fix that. We got to start by owning stuff,” he asserted, emphasizing that financial empowerment is essential for long-term success.
In a world where beef and conflict often dominate headlines, Master P’s reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of respect, understanding, and collaboration in the hip-hop community. His enduring relationship with Birdman highlights the potential for artists to uplift one another rather than engage in destructive rivalries. As the music landscape continues to evolve, Master P’s insights resonate as a call for unity and ownership among artists, ultimately paving the way for a brighter future in the industry.
