Lyrically, Mastermind finds Ross at his most confident. On "Nobody," he pays homage to Notorious B.I.G. with a reimagining of "You're Nobody (Til Somebody Kills You)," featuring French Montana and Diddy. It was a bold move that could have easily backfired, but Ross’s authoritative delivery made it feel like a passing of the torch rather than a simple cover. The chemistry between Ross and Jay-Z on "The Devil Is a Lie" remains a career highlight for both, showcasing two titans of industry trading verses over explosive, brass-heavy production.
Mastermind (Deluxe Version, 2014) is less about lyrical innovation and more about mood, authority, and mythmaking. It’s a record for listeners who appreciate lush production, commanding vocal presence, and the construction of a rap persona as a modern-day impresario or mob boss. While it may not convert skeptics looking for technical virtuosity or narrative subtlety, it succeeds brilliantly at what it sets out to do: craft an operatic, opulent statement of dominance from one of hip‑hop’s most conspicuous figures. rick ross mastermind deluxe version 2014a top
(feat. The Weeknd) – Dark, moody R&B meets boss-level bars, signaling The Weeknd's massive crossover era. Lyrically, Mastermind finds Ross at his most confident
In 2014, Rick Ross released the deluxe version of his album , a project that would go on to be hailed as one of the best hip-hop albums of the decade. The deluxe version, which included 11 additional tracks, showcased Ross's storytelling ability, lyrical prowess, and dedication to his craft. Five years after its initial release, Mastermind (Deluxe) remains a standout in Ross's discography, and its impact is still felt in the hip-hop world today. It was a bold move that could have
(feat. Kanye West & Big Sean) – A soulful, church-choir-backed masterpiece that many consider the best song on the album.