Mobb Deep explains RED Distribution deal
How Mobb Deep’s RED Distribution Deal Empowers Their Legacy
Queensbridge rap duo Mobb Deep has officially inked a new deal with RED Distribution, a division of Sony Music. Therefore, marking a return to their roots. The news has stirred excitement in the hip-hop community, not just because of the partnership, but also because of what it represents: full artistic freedom and a strategic pivot for veteran artists Prodigy and Havoc. After years navigating major label politics, Mobb Deep now takes full control of their career trajectory under their own Infamous Records label.
RED Distribution was a natural fit for the group. After all, they once were a part of Sony’s Loud Records during their early years. Now, the hardcore duo re-establishes their connection to Sony, but with an entirely different structure. Instead of signing as artists, they come in as partners.
Full Control Under Infamous Records
Prodigy and Havoc emphasized that this new RED Distribution deal is not a traditional label contract. In an interview with MTV News backstage at Rock the Bells in New York, Prodigy made it clear: “The way we structured it is as a distribution deal basically, so we run our own label, Infamous, and we gotta do the daily ins and outs of everything. We gotta handle all the record company business, and they get it in the stores for us, basically.”
This shift gives the rap legends the power to make decisions on marketing, release strategies, collaborations, and revenue. Havoc added, “It’s been a long time coming. We’ve been in the game for a minute and the object of the game is to control your own business.” The move aligns with the broader trend of seasoned artists seeking autonomy and avoiding label restrictions.
Why Mobb Deep Chose Distribution Over Major Labels
Over the years, Prodigy and Havoc have worked with several major labels including Loud, Jive, and most recently Interscope via G-Unit. While those partnerships brought commercial success, they also came with compromises. Havoc recently told SOHH, “You can sign to an indie and it could wind up being structured like a major deal and you won’t make any money… I’m into getting into anything that makes money.”
The duo understands that control doesn’t necessarily mean isolation. As Prodigy stated, “There’s no way around the majors because they’re the ones who get the music into stores. But we can maintain control through the right distribution structure.”
RED Distribution offers the ideal balance: the reach of a major with the autonomy of an indie. So, this is the best of both worlds for Mobb Deep. Given their previous label experiences, ownership was their only viable path forward. RED is offering them this opportunity.
New Album Coming Before Year-End
The RED Distribution partnership comes ahead of a highly anticipated new album. Prodigy and Havoc are currently finalizing their ninth studio album, which will be self-titled and released via Infamous Records. Prodigy recently told Bootleg Kev, “We’ll be dropping the single for the [new] album soon… just know, it’s that hard sh*t… Alchemist, Havoc, the home team, you know?”
The album is set to feature contributions from producers like DJ Premier, Sid Roams, Cardiak, and J.U.S.T.I.C.E League, along with guest appearances from artists such as Rick Ross, Lil’ Kim, Wiz Khalifa, and Nas. This marks their first major project since Prodigy’s release from prison and their renewed collaboration with Nas, ending a decade-long rift.
Fans can expect the gritty, unfiltered sound that Mobb Deep is known for—something that had taken a backseat during their more commercial years. The aim this time: give the fans what they’ve been waiting for.
Industry Reactions and Artist Insights
RED Distribution President Bob Morelli expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “Mobb Deep is an iconic act, having been on the cutting edge of music and social commentary for years. We are happy and excited to distribute the next chapter in their musical career.”
The sentiment is shared by fans and industry insiders alike. Mobb Deep’s return to independence through a reputable distribution channel sets a powerful example for legacy acts looking to take control of their destinies without sacrificing visibility or reach.
Even though Mobb Deep has taken a new path, they’ve made it clear that money and control are the core motivations—not nostalgia or pride. “It’s about being smart,” said Havoc. “The game has changed, and we have to change with it.”
From G-Unit to Independence
Mobb Deep’s history with G-Unit remains a memorable chapter. After signing with 50 Cent in 2005, the duo released Blood Money in 2006. After that, they benefited from a surge in visibility. Both 50 Cent and Prodigy even tattooed their respective labels on their bodies as a sign of loyalty. However, the partnership had its complications, and by 2009, the group was released from their G-Unit contract.
Reflecting on that experience, it’s clear that Mobb Deep has learned valuable lessons about label deals. They are no longer interested in being dependent on other entities to define their success. With Infamous Records now fully operational and partnered with RED, they are writing the next chapter on their own terms.
Conclusion: A Strategic Move for Legacy and Control
The Mobb Deep-RED Distribution partnership represents a calculated evolution. For years, they have been one of hip-hop’s most influential groups. Now, they are owners. By leveraging their experience and brand equity, Prodigy and Havoc have created a path that provides both artistic freedom and business sustainability.
Their decision to partner with RED rather than sign a traditional record deal is a reflection of their growth. Now, they are not just as artists. Additionally, they now function as entrepreneurs. This move may very well become a blueprint for other established acts seeking to regain control while still reaching their audience.
With a new album on the horizon and full control over their releases, Mobb Deep’s resurgence is poised to be one of the most exciting developments in hip-hop this year. Fans are not just witnessing a comeback—they’re witnessing a reinvention.