Uncovering the Stories Behind Nas’ Mass Appeal Magazine Cover Features
When it comes to hip-hop legends, Nas is undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures in the genre. From his groundbreaking debut album “Illmatic” to his continued success in the music industry, Nas has solidified his place as one of the greatest rappers of all time. In addition to his music, Nas has also made a name for himself as a savvy businessman, with ventures ranging from record labels to film production companies. One of his most notable ventures, however, is Mass Appeal Magazine, a publication that he co-founded in 2013. Since its inception, Mass Appeal has featured some of the biggest names in hip-hop on its covers, showcasing the diversity and talent that the genre has to offer.
The Origins of Mass Appeal Magazine
Before delving into the cover features of Mass Appeal Magazine, it’s important to understand the origins of the publication itself. Founded in 1996 by Patrick Elasik and Sacha Jenkins, Mass Appeal started as a graffiti-focused zine that aimed to showcase the artistic talents of the urban community. Over the years, the publication shifted its focus to hip-hop culture, highlighting both emerging and established artists in the genre.
When Nas became involved with the magazine in 2013, he saw an opportunity to elevate Mass Appeal to new heights and bring more attention to the artists featured within its pages. With Nas as a co-owner, the magazine rebranded itself as a multimedia platform, encompassing not just print publications, but also a record label, digital media, and a creative agency.
The Cover Features of Mass Appeal Magazine
One of the most exciting aspects of Mass Appeal Magazine is its cover features, which often showcase some of the biggest names in hip-hop. From established legends to up-and-coming talent, the magazine has consistently highlighted the diversity and creativity of the genre. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most memorable cover features from Mass Appeal Magazine:
Kendrick Lamar
In 2014, Mass Appeal Magazine featured Kendrick Lamar on its cover, highlighting his rise to fame and critical acclaim. At the time, Kendrick was riding the wave of success from his album “good kid, m.A.A.d city” and was quickly becoming one of the most respected voices in hip-hop. The cover feature showcased Kendrick’s unique style and lyrical prowess, solidifying his status as a true hip-hop genius.
Lil Yachty
In 2017, Mass Appeal Magazine took a chance on the up-and-coming rapper Lil Yachty, featuring him on the cover at a time when he was still relatively unknown. The cover story explored Lil Yachty’s quirky persona and infectious energy, highlighting his potential to become a major player in the industry. The feature was a turning point for Lil Yachty, helping to propel him to mainstream success.
Run The Jewels
One of the most iconic cover features of Mass Appeal Magazine was the 2015 issue that showcased the rap duo Run The Jewels. Comprised of Killer Mike and El-P, Run The Jewels had been making waves in the underground scene with their hard-hitting lyrics and innovative production. The cover feature highlighted the duo’s chemistry and camaraderie, cementing their status as one of the most dynamic acts in hip-hop.
Biggie Smalls
In a nod to hip-hop history, Mass Appeal Magazine paid tribute to the legendary rapper Biggie Smalls with a special cover feature in 2016. The issue celebrated Biggie’s legacy and influence on the genre, showcasing rare photos and interviews with those who knew him best. The cover feature was a poignant reminder of Biggie’s impact on hip-hop and the lasting legacy he left behind.
Future
In 2019, Mass Appeal Magazine featured the Atlanta rapper Future on its cover, highlighting his groundbreaking sound and prolific output. Known for his melodic trap music and introspective lyrics, Future has become one of the most influential artists in hip-hop today. The cover feature delved into Future’s creative process and vision, giving fans a glimpse into the mind of a true innovator.
Conclusion
Mass Appeal Magazine has played a crucial role in showcasing the diversity and talent of the hip-hop genre, with its cover features providing a platform for both established legends and emerging artists. From Kendrick Lamar to Lil Yachty, the magazine has consistently highlighted the creativity and innovation of the artists it features, helping to push the boundaries of what hip-hop can achieve. With Nas at the helm, Mass Appeal Magazine continues to be a driving force in the world of hip-hop media, bringing attention to the artists who are shaping the future of the genre.
