By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
The early years of Mannie Fresh’s career are defined by his tenure with Cash Money Records. Collectively, the entire team pushed until they gained national fame. However, by 2004, things had fallen apart. Cash Money Records was down to one artist, Lil Wayne, and their overall popularity was dwindling. During this time, Mannie Fresh was considered the most-important member of Cash Money Records. When he left the label, many wrote them off.
In an odd twist, Cash Money Records rebuilt, with Lil Wayne as the franchise player, and eventually rose to new heights. While Cash Money Records continued to prosper, Mannie Fresh struggled to get his career back on track. Aside from producing a couple of tracks for T.I. and Young Jeezy, Mannie Fresh had been forgotten by most. With Cash Money currently enjoying a four year run on top of the game, Mannie Fresh was asked about the possibility of him returning to the label, following his six-year abscence. Saying he was happy for their success, Mannie Fresh said they lacked the “sound” they once had, referring to the New Orleans bounce sound he made popular.
Finally getting things back on track, Mystikal is working on his comeback album. While he was searching for a new record deal, Mystikal announced his new album would be produced, primarily, by Mannie Fresh. Only a few days later, Mystikal announced he decided to sign with Cash Money Records. Despite people from both sides saying there is no beef, many wondered if Mannie Fresh would be removed from the project. Yesterday, the signing was official when Mystikal release the properly-titled, “Official,” which features Birdman and Lil Wayne. Recently, Mannie Fresh’s team contacted HipHopDX.com to inform them he will still be involved with the new album from Mystikal, despite him now being signed to Cash Money Records.
