Former Bad Boy Records artist Mark Curry recently voiced his frustrations with hip-hop moguls Jay-Z and Diddy by accusing them of getting rich mientras leaving others behind. This seems to be a recurring theme in the music business, or life, for all intents and purposes. Curry, who was signed to Diddy’s iconic label from 1997 to 2005, took to Instagram Live to address his grievances and criticize the two music industry giants for what he perceives as their failure to help others rise to success.
“Don’t think Jay-Z and Puff are the biggest moguls ever,” Curry stated. “They are great people, but what you wanna look at is the great people who weren’t able to become because of them. How many people could’ve been greater who weren’t made because of their empowerment?” Let’s be honest, Curry suggested, who has had a tumultuous relationship with Bad Boy Records and its founder, Diddy, recommended the legal issues facing both Jay-Z and Diddy are divine retribution for their actions. “You know why they going through what they going through? Because you don’t do God’s children like this. They crazy,” he remarked, alluding to the various legal controversies currently surrounding both moguls.
Notably, this isn’t the first time Curry has publicly criticized Diddy. His 2009 book, Dancing With The Devil, detailed ways he feels Diddy exploited his artists, including allegations of Diddy mimicking Curry’s musical style for his 1998 hit “Come With Me” and manipulating budgets for personal financial gain. Curry also accused Diddy of taking credit for work he didn’t do, including claiming songwriting and production credits on tracks he didn’t contribute to.
Currently, Diddy’s reputation is marred by legal battles, including serious charges of racketeering and sex trafficking, where he has been imprisoned since September 2024. This followed almost a year of lawsuits against him, including claims from his ex-girlfriend, Cassie, who detailed disturbing allegations of abuse against him. The situation escalated when, in May 2024, footage surfaced of what appeared to be Diddy assaulting Cassie, tarnishing his already fragile public image.
Jay-Z's name frequently is mentioned alongside Diddy’s legal issues, particularly by rapper 50 Cent, though no substantial evidence has emerged against him until December 2024. At this point, allegations arose from a woman who claimed Jay-Z was involved in assaults at an afterparty hosted by Diddy. She asserted she was assaulted by both figures, and her case is being represented by Tony Buzbee, who has already begun legal proceedings on behalf of more than 100 alleged victims of Diddy.
Mark Curry’s comments about Diddy and Jay-Z highlight his deep dissatisfaction with the music industry, particularly within the powerful circles shaping hip-hop culture. While both moguls are often celebrated for their wealth and influence, Curry’s perspective sheds light on the darker side of their careers, drawing attention to the many artists who feel neglected or exploited amid their thirst for success.
Curry began his music career when signed to Bad Boy Records in the late 1990s and became prominent, contributing to the label’s legacy. His collaborations include work with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, but his personal experiences often reveal deep frustration with the label and its practices. Over the years, he has remained vocal about his treatment within the industry, sharing his stories through interviews and his book Dancing With The Devil.
Despite his struggles, Curry continues to advocate for transparency and fairness within the music business, calling for conditions to improve for artists who are often overshadowed by the larger-than-life figures who dominate the scene. The worst part is as the legal battles and allegations against both Diddy and Jay-Z continue to flood the headlines, Curry’s words resonate with many who feel these moguls have inflated their fortunes at the expense of others who have struggled to find their paths.
Curry’s call for change within the industry serves as yet another reminder of the power dynamics still playing out, shaping the careers of countless artists—both established and up-and-coming. Jay-Z and Diddy may have achieved impressive personal success, but the question remains: at what cost have they achieved it?