Birdman talks upcoming Mystikal prison stint

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Cash Money Records has grown to be much more than a boutique record label, boasting a large roster of artists and sub-labels. Usually when Birdman, the CEO and co-founder of the label, says Cash Money is going to sign an artist, they end up on the label. Late last year, Birdman revealed Cash Money Records was looking at Busta Rhymes and former No Limit Records’ star, Mystikal.

Mystikal eventually left No Limit Records and found platinum success on his own in the early 2000s. The popular New Orleans released two platinum albums and had a string of popular singles from 2000 through 2002. As fans were waiting for new music from Mystikal, he was convicted of extortion and sexual battery and sent to prison for six years.

Early this year, two years since his prison release, fans got re-acquainted with Mystikal, who ended up signing with Cash Money Records late in 2011. Mystikal released his single, “Original,” which features the stars of YMCMB, Birdman and Lil Wayne. After the single became successful, Mystikal announced the title of his album would also be Original.

Birdman was excited about the Mystikal release, which was scheduled to come after the releases from Tyga and Nicki Minaj. Mystikal had planned to release Original this summer, but now he will be returning to prison. There are some, including Mystikal, who are disappointed because of his probation violation. In two weeks, on May 14, Mystikal will be sent back to prison to serve 81 days, which means his album will have to be pushed back from the original release date.

While the setback is frustrating, Birdman said he is supporting Mystikal and has more Cash Money releases in store for 2012.