Everyone took notice, perhaps most notably Jay Z, then the CEO/president of Def Jam. However, not until 2006 when he released “Hustlin’”-the quintessential Miami anthem-was his presence felt worldwide. Ross, through steady touring and memorable guest appearances on a few of the imprint’s releases, started making noise. After, he signed to Slip-n-Slide Records, the Miami label which, at its apex, boasted prominent acts like Trick Daddy and Trina, with whom Ross first made his rounds. It began early, with his stint at Texas-based Suave House Records, once home to 8Ball & MJG. While it’s impossible to know just how far he’d have gotten without his alliances, it’s interesting to note how they well they have paid off for him. Beginnings to “Hustlin’” To understand how Rick Ross became the force he is today is to understand the power of a cosign. Compared to Ross’, her network can often seem as bare as a Charlie Brown Christmas tree. The opposite can be said about Azealia Banks, who’s opinionated ways can often come across as self-sabotaging. He’d be nowhere without them, and he’s learned to nurture them like a master.
![rick ross hustlin rap criic rick ross hustlin rap criic](https://static01.nyt.com/images/2011/05/28/arts/jpmayback/jpmayback-articleLarge.jpg)
Sure, no one famous does, but Ross is very much a product of strategic relationships-relationships that he used to fuel his ascension as a rapper and business mogul. Thing is, Rick Ross didn’t get where he is by doing it alone.
See, he’s given us two solid LPs in one year ( Mastermind and Hood Billionaire), a rarity in modern rap.
#RICK ROSS HUSTLIN RAP CRIIC HOW TO#
And his greatness is rooted in them all, because a boss, er, a bawse, knows how to deliver, and when. Consistent lyricism, a penchant for provocation, the ability to almost single-handedly control the airwaves whenever he so chooses-those are a few of his claims to fame. No, the fact that he is great, that he is a towering figure in modern music, is not lost on anyone who only takes the time to see it. The money trail to Rozay’s hood billionaire status, his ladder to the top of the rap game, begins and ends with his connectionsįailing to mention the name Rick Ross when singling out the rap greats of our time is to forgo a basic truth for the sake of one’s own preference. Brick by brick, the Miami MC has built his empire via a Rolodex that’s as plump as his waistline.
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Rick Ross didn’t blow off of coke raps alone.