Log in to your account
Stats
Biography
Alongside Craig G, Kool G Rap and Big Daddy Kane, Marley Marl and Biz Markie, Masta Ace featured on their classic posse track, “The Symphony,” in 1988. Masta Ace then released his debut album two years later, titled “Take a Look Around,” on Motown’s hip hop label, Cold Chillin’ Records. This first album displayed Ace’s energetic rhymes, often dealing with sociopolitical issues in a tongue-in-cheek manner. The album featured the hit single, “Me and the Biz,” which included a popular video with its release.
In 1993, Ace returned, this time with his own crew, Masta Ace Incorporated, performing alongside Lord Digga and Paula Perry. Their album, “SlaughtaHouse,” synthesised a West Coast sound with an East Coast edge that made it stand out from the crowd, finding commercial success. The single, “Born To Roll” became a crossover hit, reaching number 23 in the Billboard Hot 100. Shortly after, Ace joined Special Ed and Buckshot, of Black Moon fame, for Spike Lee- arranged crew, Crooklyn Dodgers, who appeared in Lee’s film, “Crooklyn,” with Ace and co. achieving a number 60 single with the title track.
Their next record, 1995’s “Sittin’ On Chrome,” displayed a more polished sound, featuring the hit, “I.N.C. Ride” which sampled “For The Love of You” by the Isley Brothers. It would be six years before another Master Ace full length, although Masta Ace continued to perform and collaborate with other artists. 2001’s “Disposable Arts,” Masta Ace’s fourth album, became an Underground classic, peaking at number 90 in the Billboard R&B/Hip Hop Albums chart. The veteran rapper continued to release singles and albums throughout the 2000s, which continued to be received positively. In 2012, still going strong in the rap game, Masta Ace released the MF Doom produced, “MA DOOM: Son of Yvonne,” an album dedicated to his mother, reinstating his talent.
Live reviews
Duval Clear, aka. Masta Ace has been rapping since his appearance on several successful tracks back in the late 80s, and has been an influence to many high end rappers such as Eminem. Masta Ace’s hip hop rap has been said to contain many of the most powerful lyrics is rap music of today, and his skilful writing has enabled him to produce is multiple successful singles, as well as collaborate with so many large artists in the industry.
Seeing Ace perform live was an incredible experience. I’ve always listened to his music and been a huge fan, but seeing him live was something else entirely. His energy was electric, and he interacted with the audience non stop. From asking how everyone was, to getting an audience member up on stage to rap with him (!) it was mind blowing from start to finish. Of course everyone knows what an incredibly lyricist Ace is, but hearing him perform live brings a whole new level to the performance and lyrical meaning. Witnessing his facial expressions and body language told a story that isn’t available in the recorded versions of his tracks. It really made me appreciate his talent all over again.
yazhow
The gig was so much fun, the whole crowd was really in to it. Masta Ace is a world class act, attracting fans both young, old and everything in-between. XOYO is a great venue, it feels pretty intimate.
Venetiakh
