Rick Ross talks Maybach’s Discontinuance on MTV News [VIDEO]

Rick Ross came into the game with a plan and it worked. Initially, Ross was a local Miami rapper, signed to Slip-N-Slide Records. While SNS is a local Miami label, it is home to Trick Daddy and Trina. Both were major label artists, via Atlantic Records. However, Rick Ross remained a local act. At times, he’d appeared on records with Trina. Obviously, Ross had bigger goals. In addition to SNS, he and DJ Khaled worked closely. As a result, Ross and Fat Joe had a relationship. Eventually, this gave way to major label attention. Ross would sign to Def Jam, via Slip-N-Slide.

Rick Ross emerged with “Hustlin'” and had himself an anthem. However, it looked like he was going to become a one hit wonder. His album, Port of Miami, was a moderate success. When it came to his second album, Trilla, Ross struggled to secure a release date. Even with singles featuring R. Kelly, Ross struggled to gain traction. However, he proved to be a star when he dropped “The Boss.” After that, came the “Here I Am” single with Nelly. Then, he proved his worth as a lyricist when he went toe-to-toe with his mentor, Jay-Z, on “Maybach Music.”

The “Maybach Music” song served as the soft launch of the Maybach Music Group. Rick Ross got his crew signed to Def Jam and went to work. Always moving, Ross did the unthinkable. After amassing a few hits under his belt, Rick Ross took on 50 Cent. Unlike the other rappers who have gone against 50, he’s had a successful career since then. Some have argued that Rick Ross ended 50’s career. He’s continued having Jay-Z as a mentor. In addition, Diddy is his manager. Having these power players has given Ross an executive advantage.

Last year, Ross signed Wale and Meek Mill to Maybach Music. Immediately, they became successful members of the team. Also, he had Pill on the label and they worked through their Warner Bros. partnership. When Rick Ross boasts about being the boss, he has a lot to say, now. Recently, Sway sat down with Ross for an exclusive MTV interview. The two discussed Rick Ross’ growth and the expansion of Maybach Music. Ross explained how the label has been so dominant, while lamenting the end of the Mercedes Maybach automobile brand.