Maybach Music Group leader Rick Ross has offered his reaction to joining fellow artists Wale and Meek Mill atop MTV’s annual “Hottest MC in the Game” top ten list and just how important the co-sign is.
Speaking on landing at number one, Ricky Rozay stressed how privileged the accolade is.
“I just got the news that I was voted the game’s Hottest MC, and man, it really means a lot to me, of course, but it’s an honor,” Rozay told MTV News from an L.A. recording studio. “It’s something I’ve been watching, something I’ve been a fan of forever. Of course, MTV, they run the game. MMG, we’re here. Shout-out to the whole team.” (MTV)
In addition to Ricky, the list also includes platinum-selling rappers Nicki Minaj, Jay-Z and Drake.
Ross topped the list, which also included Drake, Kanye West, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, Meek Mill, Big Sean, Wiz Khalifa and Wale. Each MC was judged based on our Hottest criteria, which included impact, buzz, sales, lyrics, swag and the intangibles. Rozay surely met all of the above. His impact on the game is undeniable, with his Maybach Music Group and key guest appearances on songs like Meek Mill’s “Ima Boss” and Lil Wayne’s “John,” Ross maintained a consistent buzz all year long. His Self Made, Vol. 1 compilation album debuted at #1 on the Billboard rap albums chart. Lyrically, Rozay was a force as well, and his swag was through the roof. In January, the Bawse lit up the streets when he dropped his free 19-song Rich Forever mixtape. (MTV)
Earlier this month, Roc Nation protege J. Cole shared his take on not making the top ten.
“Yeah I saw the list. I don’t know it’s like, a list is a list,” J. Cole said. “Whether I’m on it or not. Even if I was on it. If I was on that list they would find another person to be up in arms about.” (RapFix)
Recently, producer Timbaland dubbed Ross the new version of late music mogul Notorious B.I.G.
“Let me show y’all how to take it to the next level. The best with the best,” Tim said in the video. “He’s the newest, reincarnated B.I.G. and that’s coming from the heart — a n*gga who worked with B.I.G. I’m telling you like it is. I know rap stars and he’s one of the biggest rap stars who ever done it. I’m happy to be a part of it.” (Maybach Music Group)
