Can Rick Ross ascend to true "Boss" status?

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

If confidence could translate into record sales, Rick Ross would have broken Thriller's record on his first mixtape. Rick Ross released his debut album, in 2006, and boldly called himself the boss. His Trilla album featured his breakout single, "The Boss."

Over a short period of time, Rick Ross has risen to become one of the biggest names in rap. In 2011, Rick Ross has been the most-popular rapper, without even releasing any music of his own. His collaborations have been enough to keep him out there.

Rick Ross had a similarly dominating year, last year. His album of the year, Teflon Don, only went gold, but his two singles, "B.M.F." and "Aston Martin Music," were immensely popular. This year, when Ross releases God Forgives, I Don't, he said he will officially take over the game.

On the collaborative side of things, Rick Ross has already replaced Lil Wayne. But, his own solo work has yet to match his popularity, sales-wise. Last year, Rick Ross boldly predicted Teflon Don would break the 10 million mark in sales. This year, Rick Ross is not predicting sales, but he promised his new album would turn him into hip hop's go-to guy.

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Rick Ross facing lawsuit over "Teflon Don" album title

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Despite becoming a frequent hitmaker, Rick Ross has also faced a major backlash. Among other things, Ross has been called fake by many. His persona is that of a drug lord, when he worked as a correctional officer. In addition to this, his name comes from a real drug lord.

Upon getting out of prison, Ricky "Freeway" Ross, filed a lawsuit against Rick Ross over his name and style. The lawsuit was settled out of court. Rick Ross' rivals in the rap game have used that for numerous diss tracks. Not too long removed, Rick Ross is facing more trouble.

His popular 2010 album, Teflon Don, is the center of a new lawsuit. A lawsuit was filed by Teflon Don, a rapper whose real name is Donald Askey, Jr. Askey has filed a suit against Def Jam, Slip-N-Slide Records, DJ Khaled, Universal Music Group, Maybach Music Group, and Rick Ross for trademark infringement.

Askey claims he was working with DJ Khaled, back in 2007, three years before Rick Ross released his album, Teflon Don. This was actually proven, as Khaled gave him a shout out "to my homie Teflon Don, we the best." Teflon Don, the rapper, said Rick Ross' music has also hindered his growth, as Ross rhymes are negative, while his rhymes are positive. Many of Teflon Don's fans are turned off by the Rick Ross album, which was named after his stage name.

Teflon Don said the Teflon Don album and Rick Ross' budget has hindered his growth as an artist.

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Rick Ross to perform at the 2011 BET Awards

The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

The run for Rick Ross seems poised to continue throughout 2011, as the Carol City rapper is slated to perform at the 2011 BET Awards. Last year, Rick Ross had a dominant year, as his Teflon Don album was among the most popular of 2010. At the end of the year, Ross' focus shifted to his Maybach Music label.

Aside from his "Made Men" single with Drake, Rick Ross has only been heard through Maybach Music. Among their hits are "Tupac Back" and "Play Your Part." Every song Rick Ross has been on, ever since 2009, has gone on to become a hit. Ross has at least one verse on most of the year's hits already.

Recently, BET announced Rick Ross would be one of their performers at their upcoming awards show. It is unclear if he will perform one of his hits, or if it will be a collaboration. Likely, Ross will perform a few of his songs with his Maybach Music team.

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Rick Ross lands All-Star lineup for "Self Made" album

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

On his past few albums, Rick Ross has been loading up on the big-name guest appearances. Now a big name, himself, Ross is able to land more features on his albums. Ross and his Maybach team recently completed their Warner Bros. debut, Self Made.

Much like 2010's Teflon Don, the new album is filled with big-name guest appearances. J. Cole, Diddy, Drake, Jeremih, and Curren$y, along with many others are featured on the album. For two years, Rick Ross has been rising in the game.

Late in 2009, Rick Ross and Diddy began hanging out on a social level. By late 2010, the two said they were close as brothers. The boss has also built a strong relationship with Drake. Drake was featured on his last album and also on his "Made Men" single.

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