His most recent (and reportedly final) solo album, A Long Hot Summer, gained considerable acclaim in 2004. He is currently in the hip hop group eMC, with Punchline, Wordsworth and Stricklin. They have a page at http://www.myspace.com/emcthegroup.
In the early stages of his career, Masta Ace was very energetic (cf. "Jeep Ass Niguh", where, tongue-in-cheek, he taunts police officers for their knee-jerk predisposition to harass black youth on city streets.) He also recorded material with a six-member supporting entourage, Masta Ace Incorporated. In light of his newly claimed status as a veteran, he has gravitated toward an earnest, matter-of-fact plainspokenness in the new millennium. Many of the songs that have lent newfound heft to his reputation are simple, no-nonsense rumination on feelings and facts of urban American life, including "Soda and Soap", "Brooklyn Masala" (which highlights a budding romance between Ace and a lovely but reserved Pakistani Hindu immigrant), and "Beautiful".
1988-1994
Ace made his recording debut as Master Ace on the classic hip-hop posse-cut "The Symphony", along with fellow Juice Crew members Craig G, Kool G Rap, and Big Daddy Kane, released on Marley Marl's In Control album. In Control also featured two lesser known Ace tracks "Keep Your Eyes on the Prize" and "Simon Says". His first solo single, "Together" b/w "Letter to the Better", was released in 1989. He released his debut album, Take A Look Around, through Marl's Cold Chillin' label in 1990, featuring production from Marl and DJ Mister Cee. The album featured two minor hit singles in "Music Man" and "Me & The Biz", a track in which he impersonates fellow Juice Crew member Biz Markie. During the few years between his debut and his sophomore album, Ace began having bitter feelings toward the commercial state of hip hop music, feelings which ruled the content on his second release, 1993's Slaughtahouse, with the loose concept of the album seeing Ace taking the fake "gangsta emcees" to his "Slaughtahouse". The album featured Ace's new crew, Masta Ace Incorporated, which included Eyceurokk, Lord Digga, Paula Perry and R&B vocalist Leschea. The album sold moderately well, fueled by the singles "SlaughtaHouse", "Saturday Nite Live", "Style Wars" and "Jeep Ass Niguh". "Jeep" featured an unlisted remix titled "Born to Roll", which became a smash crossover single in 1994, peaking at #23 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Also in '94, Ace became a member of a temporary crew called the Crooklyn Dodgers, along with rap vet Special Ed and Black Moon's Buckshot, and recorded the title track for the soundtrack to Spike Lee's film Crooklyn. The song became Ace's second Hot 100 hit in 1994, peaking at #60 on the chart.
1995-2000
Ace furthered his mainstream appeal in 1995, with his radio-friendly Sittin' On Chrome album. This effort was also released with the Masta Ace Incorporated crew, now also known as The I.N.C. The album was Ace's most commercially successful release, breaking into the Top 20 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums chart. Sittin' On Chrome included "Born to Roll", as well as two other Hot 100 hit singles, "The I.N.C. Ride" and "Sittin' on Chrome". In 1996, Ace split up with the I.N.C. crew and was largely missing from the hip hop scene over the next five years, save for a number of random vinyl singles. During his vinyl days, he bounced from a number of labels, releasing his "Cars" single on Tape Kingz Records, his "Yeah Yeah Yeah" and "NFL" singles on the Union Label, his "NY Confidential" single on Replay Records, his "Express Delivery" single on Three Sixty Records, his "Spread It Out/Hellbound" single on Yosumi Records, his "Conflict" single on Mona Records, his "Ghetto Like" single on Fat Beats, his "So Now U A MC" single on Bad Magic Records, and his "Brooklyn Blocks" single on Buckshot's Duck Down Records.
2001-present
Ace's "Ghetto Like" single led to a misunderstanding with an underground emcee named Boogieman, who released a somewhat similar single titled "Ghetto Life" not long before. He thought that Ace was "biting" his track and released a dis song toward Ace titled "Just You Wait". The dis led to a rap battle between the two at a Lyricist Lounge event, a battle that was won by Boogieman. Ace later claimed that he delivered his rhymes off the top of his head, while Boog was rapping previously written lyrics, a topic which he discusses on his scathing retaliation track "Acknowledge", aimed at Boogieman and the underground rap group the High & Mighty. "Acknowledge" was included on his fourth full length album, Disposable Arts, released in late 2001 through JCOR Records, six long years after his successful Sittin' On Chrome album. Disposable Arts became one of the most acclaimed underground hip-hop releases of 2001, beloved for its pure hip hop style and clever album concept, which served as a fictional story, chronicling Ace's time spent at a satirical rap school named the Institute of Disposable Arts. JCOR Records folded soon after the release, leaving it out-of-print, until being re-released in 2005 on Ace's self-established M3 label. The album closer, "No Regrets", led many fans to believe that it would be Ace's final album, because of the line "I don't know if it's the end, but yo, it might be". Ace killed the rumors by returning in 2004 with his fifth album A Long Hot Summer, another highly acclaimed effort. The story concept, similar to that on his last release, served as a prelude to the story told on Disposable Arts, chronicling the "Long Hot Summer" that led to his character's incarceration at the beginning of the Disposable Arts album. Rumors once again spread about a retirement, which were again killed, when Ace announced the formation of his new rap crew named eMC, including himself, Punchline, Wordsworth and his protege Stricklin. The crew plans to release a group album sometime in 2007.
Openness to collaborations
In large part, the creative company Masta Ace keeps is comprised of underground performers with whom he has developed a personal rapport. He commonly acknowledges his fan base outside of the United States, which is considerably larger than within, as in the final seconds of his song "Good Ol' Love". He has shown an openness to working with foreign-based producers, including Koolade of Croatia and DJ Serious of Canada. He also performed a guest rap for the British Acid jazz group Young Disciples for their debut album.
In Scandinavia, he recorded "What Is It" with Norwegian veteran producer Tommy Tee in 2003, for the soundtrack to the car racing game "Midnight Club 2", which also was featured on several European mixtapes.
Within the United States, he has worked with Jean Grae, 9th Wonder of Little Brother, DJ Spinna, DJ Premier, RJD2, Pete Rock, Domingo, Ali Shaheed Muhammad of A Tribe Called Quest, and Kno of Cunninlynguists. Q-Tip enlisted him as a contributor to the original Crooklyn Dodgers track in 1992. The track spawned a follow-up in 1995, with a third projected for 2006, but neither Ace nor the other original contributors, Special Ed and the bellicose Buckshot (of Black Moon and Boot Camp Clik), were involved with them. Instead, the second Crooklyn Dodgers track was produced by DJ Premier and involved O.C., Chubb Rock and Jeru the Damaja, where the planned third installment is said to involve Mos Def, Jean Grae, and Memphis Bleek, with production courtesy of 9th Wonder.
By extending largesse to younger MCs even as he has been careful to solidify connections with the rap game's old guard, he has amassed a list of collaborators numbering over 60. The most notable of his collaborators have been Eminem (who has expressed ongoing admiration for his skills), Common (on the track "Claimin' Respect" as part of a trio called Boulevard Connection), Guru of Gang Starr, Edo G (the third member of Boulevard Connection, from Boston), Jean Grae, Saukrates, Young Zee, Big Noyd, Cella Dwellas, King Tee, Tonedeff, Rah Digga, Strick, Das Efx, Greg Nice and the Beatnuts. He devotes several lines of the track "No Regrets" to express goodwill and thanksgiving to the artists he has worked with, calling these opportunities some of the most valued blessings of his career.
Beautiful
Masta Ace Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
BK, Uptown, Boogie Down, Queens
It's beautiful
Listen, I got a lot to say (yeah)
Usually my smile stay locked away
But not today, I have to laugh
On the real the Aftermath's kind of ill like I'm Dr. Dre
It's funny how you get jaded, I just hate it (just hate it)
But this song gives a different kind of feelin'
It's a new kind of dealin', it's a special kind of healin' (uh huh)
And I can show what it is
Best flow in the biz? You know what it is
Positive over negative, see the Ace a Masta
Even when I face disaster (that's right)
I rise up above
See, people still showin' me love
Get the respect without droppin' a check
This hip hop thing might stop in a sec
So this brand new ish, you can pop in the deck
It's beautiful
It's beautiful
Yeah, this is brand new Uptown still in the box
This is the Yankees, ten-nothin', killin' the Sox
This ain't huggin' the block wit' a gat in ya hand
This is on the Catamaran (that's right)
With the sun beamin' down while you sat in the sand
I feel like I'm more than a cat wit' a plan
This feels like it's more than a flash in the pan
This is milk in the cup and cash in ya hand
This is a warm coat on the coldest night
That's why I stole this mic, y'all don't hold this right (nope)
First in a class of many
This is a bottle of Jack and a glass of Henny (that's right)
Now drink it up 'til there ain't nothin' left in it
I'm reppin' it, BK, that's a definite
There's more of these amazing rhymes
A song like this in these days and times is beautiful
It's beautiful
(I'm wishin' on and on and on} The most beautiful thing ever
And it's here to bring terror to the bling era (yeah)
You can feel it in ya inner
It's like Grandma's house, Thanksgiving dinner
It's like a day in the park
Or at night when you get the ball and you play in the dark (swish)
It's that street corner music
Where most cats when they pull that heat go and use it
I see a black man aimin' his gun
But I'd rather see a black man claimin' his son
You know the sound is pretty
Even when you got to get down and gritty
This is money in the bank like you down wit' Diddy
This a helicopter ride around the city
And we love it 'cause it brought us here
It's like a young mother braidin' her daughter's hair
It's beautiful
It's beautiful
The song "Beautiful" by Masta Ace is a celebration of positivity in the midst of negativity, acknowledging the challenges of hip hop and urban life while focusing on the beauty to be found in everyday experiences. The lyrics describe the joys of summer living and the feeling of being alive, despite the odds. Masta Ace's rhymes speak to the heart and encourage listeners to appreciate life's simple pleasures. He touches on the commercialization of rap and how it's dangerous for people to focus exclusively on bling and cash without acknowledging the deeper meanings and joys of life.
The opening lyrics establish a sense of pride and belonging, referencing the varied boroughs of New York City (BK, Uptown, Boogie Down, Queens) that inspire Masta Ace as a musician. He goes on to talk about how he has a lot to say, but he usually suppresses his emotions, only to let them out in moments of pure happiness. The song compares Masta Ace's rhymes to Dr. Dre's, talks about the dangers of fading away in the club scene, and recognizes the importance of new and positive experiences.
The chorus itself says it all: "It's beautiful," an expression of appreciation for life in all its forms, from the simple pleasures of sitting on a sandy beach to the profound joys of familial love.
Line by Line Meaning
Listen, I got a lot to say (yeah)
I have important things to express that I want to share with others.
Usually my smile stay locked away
I tend to keep my emotions hidden and do not often show joy on my face.
On the real the Aftermath's kind of ill like I'm Dr. Dre
The Aftermath, a reference to Dr. Dre's production company, is impressive and noteworthy as a musical entity.
Sometimes I run to the club and get faded
Occasionally, I participate in recreational activities that involve drinking or drug use in a nightclub setting.
It's funny how you get jaded, I just hate it (just hate it)
It is ironic how people can become cynical or disillusioned with certain experiences. I do not appreciate that feeling and wish it did not exist.
But this song gives a different kind of feelin'
However, this particular song brings about an entirely new and unique feeling.
It's a new kind of dealin', it's a special kind of healin' (uh huh)
It is a novel way of coping with my emotions, and it brings about a specific kind of relief and comfort.
And I can show what it is
I am willing and able to demonstrate what this feeling is like for others.
Best flow in the biz? You know what it is
I possess the most impressive and distinct style of rapping in the music industry, and everyone knows it.
Positive over negative, see the Ace a Masta
I prioritize positivity over negativity, as evidenced through my music. This is what makes me an expert in my field.
Even when I face disaster (that's right)
Even in the face of adversity or difficult situations, I remain resilient and continue to create music that is uplifting and hopeful.
I rise up above
I am able to overcome obstacles and challenges through my perseverance and dedication to my craft.
See, people still showin' me love
Despite any hardships or obstacles, my fans and supporters continue to show me appreciation and admiration for my work.
Get the respect without droppin' a check
I am able to garner respect and admiration from others without resorting to paying them off or bribing them.
This hip hop thing might stop in a sec
The rap music industry could quickly come to an end if people lose interest or new developments in technology and culture disrupt it.
So this brand new ish, you can pop in the deck
Therefore, this fresh and innovative music that I am releasing should be played and enjoyed while it lasts.
Yeah, this is brand new Uptown still in the box
This is a new and exciting aspect of urban culture that has not yet been fully explored or appreciated by the masses.
This is the Yankees, ten-nothin', killin' the Sox
This is like the feeling of being on top and superior to others, like the New York Yankees baseball team when they are dominating their opponents.
This ain't huggin' the block wit' a gat in ya hand
This is not about participating in gang or criminal activity on the streets while holding a firearm.
This is on the Catamaran (that's right)
This is a new and exciting adventure or possibility, like being on a luxurious boat in the middle of the ocean.
With the sun beamin' down while you sat in the sand
Picture a calming and peaceful moment of relaxation on the beach with the sun shining down upon you.
I feel like I'm more than a cat wit' a plan
I feel that I have more than just a basic understanding of what is possible and can achieve great things in my life.
This feels like it's more than a flash in the pan
This new endeavor or experience is not just a temporary or fleeting moment that will soon be forgotten or dismissed.
This is milk in the cup and cash in ya hand
This is a positive and satisfying experience, like having both a refreshing drink and money in your possession.
This is a warm coat on the coldest night
This is a source of comfort and protection from the harsh realities of life during difficult times.
That's why I stole this mic, y'all don't hold this right (nope)
That is why I took control of the microphone and am delivering this message in the way that I feel is best. You all are not doing it justice.
First in a class of many
I am the first and most unique musician in a long line of other talented individuals in the music industry.
This is a bottle of Jack and a glass of Henny (that's right)
This is the feeling of indulgence and pleasure that one experiences when drinking both Jack Daniels and Hennessy together.
Now drink it up 'til there ain't nothin' left in it
Now, savor this moment and the experience until it is over and gone.
I'm reppin' it, BK, that's a definite
I am representing Brooklyn, New York, in a way that is strong and unmistakable.
There's more of these amazing rhymes
There are many more incredible lyrics and musical creations that I have yet to share with the world.
A song like this in these days and times is beautiful
In the current climate of fear and uncertainty, music like this can be seen as a beautiful and inspiring force that can bring joy and comfort to people's lives.
(I'm wishin' on and on and on} The most beautiful thing ever
I am hoping and dreaming for something that is truly beautiful and meaningful to me, perhaps even beyond my current understanding.
And it's here to bring terror to the bling era (yeah)
This new and exciting music is here to shake up the current trend of shallow materialism and excess that has overtaken the music industry.
You can feel it in ya inner
This sensation is not just something you can hear or see, but also feel deep within your soul.
It's like Grandma's house, Thanksgiving dinner
This feeling is comforting and familiar, like being surrounded by loved ones and enjoying a big feast during a holiday celebration.
It's like a day in the park
It is reminiscent of a happy and carefree day spent outdoors in a public park, enjoying life's simple pleasures.
Or at night when you get the ball and you play in the dark (swish)
It's like playing basketball at night, moving swiftly and confidently in the darkness, scoring a point with a satisfying swish.
It's that street corner music
This is the kind of music that speaks to the soul of the streets and the experiences of those who grew up there.
Where most cats when they pull that heat go and use it
This is a reference to the unfortunate reality of gun violence in certain neighborhoods, when people resort to using firearms to settle disputes with one another.
I see a black man aimin' his gun
This is a reflection on the violence and injustice that people of color often face in their communities, including the use of guns for dangerous and destructive purposes.
But I'd rather see a black man claimin' his son
However, I believe that it is much more important and fulfilling to see black men taking responsibility for their children and their families instead of resorting to violence and aggression.
You know the sound is pretty
This music is not just meaningful in its lyrics, but has an aesthetically appealing quality to it as well.
Even when you got to get down and gritty
Even when times are tough and the subject matter is dark or difficult, this music continues to be impactful and beautiful.
This is money in the bank like you down wit' Diddy
This is a successful and profitable endeavor, like the impression that one is associated with prominent music producer, Sean 'Diddy' Combs.
This a helicopter ride around the city
This is a metaphor for a thrilling and awe-inspiring experience, such as riding in a helicopter above a bustling cityscape.
And we love it 'cause it brought us here
We love this music and this experience because it has led us to this moment of joy and appreciation.
It's like a young mother braidin' her daughter's hair
This is a touching and heartfelt moment of intimacy and love between a mother and her child, and reflects the beauty of human connection that this music aims to convey.
It's beautiful
All of these experiences and sensations come together to create something indescribably beautiful and meaningful.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Royalty Network, Capitol CMG Publishing, Songtrust Ave, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Austin Cunningham, Trina Harmon, Trina Loy Harmon
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@Milkbutter
Eziokilla9595
I gotta say, your recommendation was on point. His albums got better with time. "Long Hot Summer" HAS to be his best record and the way it goes into "Disposable Arts" is remarkable.
The way the ratings sit is...
Take A Look Around-7/10 (didn't age well but if it's simple sound doesn't bother you it's easy to rate much higher).
SlaughtaHouse-7.4
Sittin On Chrome-7.7
Disposable Arts-8/10
Long Hot Summer-9/10
God damn "Beautiful" sounds much better with the album than it already does alone.
@counterstrike1110
One of those songs that embodies everything good about hip hop.
@r0conscious
Well said 🙏🏻
@Rosco-P.Coldchain
Amen 🙏
@captainmorga000
Yes indeed
@andreazunonkipre7467
Who is still listening to this masterpiece in 2020 ? 🙌🏾
@minceraftfornite4334
Yessir hip hop and rap has changed so much but it’s not a bad thing
@trentyates418
Till this day this masterpiece is beautiful
@ambestenisthierhaareschnei4836
Me definetly! 👍
@ProdZeezy
we bumping it over here b!
@fakemoney1156
Hereee🙋♂️