Rick Ross
When you think of the biggest names in hip-hop, one name that can never be left out is Rick Ross. Known for his booming voice and signature grunt, Rick Ross has cemented himself as one of the most successful rappers of the 2000s. With a career spanning over a decade, Ross has released many top-selling albums and has become the founder of Maybach Music Group.
About Rick Ross
Rick Ross, born William Roberts II, had his start in the music industry writing for and making occasional appearances on Slip-n-Slide label records. It wasn't until he had the chance to release his debut album, Port of Miami, in 2006 that he skyrocketed to mainstream success. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard charts and was certified platinum thanks to the massive success of his debut single "Hustlin'."
Rick Ross quickly became known for his larger-than-life personality and luxurious lifestyle. He embraced his status as a boss and even named himself after the infamous drug kingpin from the 80s and 90s, Freeway Rick Ross. This persona has become a staple in his music and is what sets him apart from other rappers in the game.
With each album he released, Rick Ross continued to solidify his status as a hip-hop legend. His second album, Trilla, debuted at number one on the Billboard charts, followed by Deeper Than Rap and Teflon Don which were both certified gold.
Aside from his hugely successful solo career, Rick Ross is also known for founding Maybach Music Group in 2009. The label quickly became home to some of hip-hop's biggest stars, including Meek Mill and Wale. Since its inception, Maybach Music Group has released nine solo albums and three compilation albums, five of which are certified gold.
Despite facing a few controversies over the years, such as his past as a correctional officer, Rick Ross has managed to maintain his popularity and relevance in the rap game. He continues to collaborate with some of the biggest names in the industry, from Jay-Z to Drake, and constantly releases new and successful music.
Rick Ross's Musical Style
Rick Ross's style of music is heavily influenced by his life experiences and his larger-than-life persona. He often raps about his luxurious lifestyle, referencing designer clothing brands and exotic cars. His signature grunt has become a trademark of his music, as it's often used as a hype sound throughout his songs.
His voice is also a defining characteristic of his music. Rick Ross has a booming baritone voice that commands attention and adds a sense of power to his verses. He's also known for his ability to switch up his flow and delivery throughout his songs.
Lyrically, Rick Ross often references the drug trade and his past as a correctional officer. He's also been known to use his music as a platform to address social and political issues. For example, his song "Free Enterprise" featuring John Legend touches on police brutality and the need for criminal justice reform.
Notable Collaborations
Rick Ross has collaborated with many different artists over the course of his career, from newcomers to legends in the game. Some of his most notable collaborations include:
- "Maybach Music" series with Jay-Z, Kanye West, and T-Pain
- "Stay Schemin" with Drake and French Montana
- "The Devil Is a Lie" with Jay-Z
- "U.O.E.N.O." with Future
- "Sorry" with Chris Brown
Each of these collaborations showcases Rick Ross's ability to hold his own alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. His charisma and commanding presence make him a sought-after collaborator and a staple in hip-hop.
Legacy and Impact
As one of the most successful rappers of his generation, Rick Ross has had a huge impact on the music industry. He's inspired countless other artists with his larger-than-life persona and luxurious lifestyle. He's also been praised for his ability to switch up his flow and delivery throughout his songs, showing that he's more than just a one-trick pony.
With Maybach Music Group, Rick Ross has also paved the way for other artists to achieve success in the rap game. He's proven that he's not just a talented rapper, but also a savvy businessman who knows how to spot and nurture talent.
As Rick Ross continues to release new music and collaborate with other artists, there's no doubt that he'll continue to be an influential force in hip-hop for years to come.