On Monday, March 17, 2025, Ma$e took to the airwaves on his sports talk show, It Is What It Is, to discuss the legal troubles facing his former label boss, Sean "Diddy" Combs. Despite their long-standing issues, Ma$e expressed both concern for Diddy and gratitude for the opportunities he received during their time together at Bad Boy Records.
The discussion arose during the episode when Ma$e's co-host, Cam’ron, mentioned the rumors of Ma$e having faced Diddy’s son, Christian Combs, at the funeral of the late Voletta Wallace, the mother of the famous rapper The Notorious B.I.G. Ma$e reflected, saying, “I think we looked at each other but I don’t think he saw me. I would have said what’s up.”
While attending such significant events often surfaces past tensions, Ma$e maintained he would be open to visiting Diddy if his name appeared on the visitation list. "I mean, if my name was on the list, I’d go visit Puff," he said earnestly. "I would visit him, make sure he was good. These are the times when you need people to check up and make sure you’re good.” His statement reflects not only empathy but also the complicated threads of their professional bond.
Ma$e was clear, mentioning more than once his disapproval of any alleged wrongdoings, clarifying, "Not to condone anything he allegedly did, but until they prove it, you want to make sure you don’t be like one of those people [who] condemn somebody [who] did good for you." He articulated the notion of maintaining acknowledgment of Diddy’s role in his early career success, highlighting, "He didn’t do all bad; he did some good." This indicates Ma$e grappling with the concept of loyalty versus justice.
The tension surrounding Diddy's legal challenges—specifically, allegations of sex trafficking—loomed large. Diddy recently pleaded not guilty to these charges, including multiple accusations under a superseding indictment connected to actions spanning two decades. Although his trial was initially set to commence on May 5, it has been delayed, now beginning on May 12.
Reflecting on his own career revival, Ma$e revealed, with some humor, the timing of his new album release. He plans to drop his first album in more than 20 years on the start date of Diddy’s trial, on May 12. "The first day of the Diddy trial. We’re dropping," he asserted, echoing excitement as he suggested the unique timing was intentional. This album will mark his return to music and, intriguingly, is set to be a triple-disc effort. He quipped, "Now we even," possibly referencing the back-and-forth tensions and accomplishments each artist has experienced.
Despite their tumultuous history, it’s clear Ma$e still cherishes moments from their time at Bad Boy. “Definitely did some good,” he reiterated, reflecting appreciation for the foundation Diddy helped him build. Even as he prepares to release new music, there’s recognition of the impactful presence Diddy has had, albeit amid the controversy now shrouding his reputation.
Adding to the emotional weight, Ma$e asked, "I don’t know [if he's innocent]," when pressed on Diddy’s possible guilt. This highlights the latent conflict many feel when approaching topics where personal ties intersect with legal boundaries. The rapper’s candidness shows the internal struggle between friendship, gratitude, and moral standing.
Listeners noted the heartfelt atmosphere of Voletta Wallace’s funeral, where iconic figures from hip-hop, including Lil' Kim, Faith Evans, and Gloria Carter (Jay-Z's mother), came together to pay tribute. At such poignant gatherings, reminiscing on relationships—both broken and strong—often becomes unavoidable. Ma$e’s reflections indicated not only his complex feelings for Diddy but also the broader emotions surrounding loss and legacy.
Throughout the podcast episode, the interplay between nostalgic reflection and present circumstances remained at the forefront. It emphasized the occasionally gray areas we navigate when confronting past relationships amid new challenges. Ma$e’s blend of loyalty and critique encapsulates the duality entrenched within the music industry, inviting listeners to ponder the nature of friendship under duress.
While the release of his album coinciding with Diddy’s trial date generates discussion, it also introduces anticipatory debate about the content within. Speculation abounds as to whether the lyrics will touch on their complicated relationship, adding layers to both the narrative of the album and the public’s perception of Diddy’s situation.
What remains is the reality of two intertwined careers having faced significant highs and devastating lows. Ma$e’s candidness on It Is What It Is offers audiences insight not just about the music but also about the people behind the art, delivering poignant commentary on fame, legacy, and the perhaps unbreakable ties of shared history.
