Mase, born Mason Durell Betha, is an American rapper, songwriter, producer, and pastor. He is best known for his successful hip hop career in the 1990s with Bad Boy Records, and his subsequent move to a Christian music career. His debut album, Harlem World, sold over four million copies and earned him a Grammy Award nomination. Born in Jacksonville, Florida and raised in Harlem, New York, Mase first gained fame as a member of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ rap group, the Bad Boy Family.
Early Life
Mase was born in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1975 and raised in Harlem, New York. His father, Mason Betha Sr., was a pastor, and his mother, Rhonda Durell Betha, was a teacher. He has two siblings, a brother, Mason Jr., and a sister, Nia. He attended the LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York City, and graduated in 1993.
Musical Career
Mase’s musical career began in 1994, when he signed with Bad Boy Records. His debut album, Harlem World, was released in 1997 and was an instant success. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was certified quadruple platinum. The album included the singles “Feel So Good” and “What You Want”, which both reached the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100. In 1999, Mase released his second album, Double Up, which was also a success.
Personal Life
Mase retired from music in 1999 and moved to Atlanta, Georgia to pursue a religious career. He became a pastor and founded El Elyon International Church in 2001. In 2009, he returned to music with his third album, Now We Even, and has since released several other albums. He is also a motivational speaker and has appeared on various television shows. He is married to Twyla Betha, and they have two children.
Mase has had a successful career as a rapper and producer, and is now a pastor and motivational speaker. He has released a number of albums, both secular and Christian, and has earned numerous awards and accolades. He is a living example of how it is possible to make a success of both your religious and musical career.
