Vado compares Interscope deal to Kobe Bryant in 1996
Vado Reflects on Major Label Signing
Harlem rapper Vado is making headlines once again, this time for a major career milestone: his recent signing with Interscope Records. After building momentum alongside Dipset icon Cam’ron and making waves in New York’s underground, Vado is now ready to enter the mainstream arena. And when asked how he feels about his label move, Vado offered an analogy that perfectly captures his hunger and confidence: “I feel like Kobe when he first went to the Lakers.”
It’s a comparison that immediately resonates. Like Kobe Bryant in 1996, Vado enters a legacy-driven institution with something to prove. Kobe was young, fearless, and already generating buzz despite playing alongside established NBA stars. Vado sees his journey in much the same light. His mixtape grind may have been the equivalent of high school ball, but now he’s playing on a national stage, eager to showcase his full potential.
The Diplomats Lay the Foundation
Vado’s rise can be directly linked to his partnership with Cam’ron. The two Harlem MCs built undeniable chemistry over the past few years. Therefore, producing critically acclaimed projects and heating up the streets with raw, unfiltered music. After Cam’ron’s brief time away from the spotlight, his return was bolstered by Vado’s talent and fresh energy. Their reunion with Jim Jones and Juelz Santana in early 2010 reinvigorated Dipset fans and laid the groundwork for major label attention.
Interscope recognized the buzz. And in late March, Cam’ron made it official during a radio interview, confirming Vado’s signing to the legendary label. It was a major win not only for Vado but for Harlem hip-hop.
Courtesy of Cam’ron, Harlem’s hip-hop scene has dominated the past decade. First, there was Cam himself with 2002’s Come Home With Me. After that, 2005 and 2006 saw Juelz Santana and Jim Jones drop massive hits. Now, Cam has continued making moves and has Vado with Interscope Records. Their last major New York signee was 50 Cent, if that says anything.
Vado Reflects on the Interscope Opportunity
Speaking to Jenny Boom Boom in a recent interview, Vado didn’t hold back his excitement.
“I feel like Kobe [Bryant] when he first went to the Lakers,” Vado said. “You know he had the talent, you know he been good since he got to that level but now it’s time to see what he can do on the mainstream.”
It’s a telling statement from an artist who understands the stakes. Vado’s move from indie notoriety to major label recognition mirrors the leap from streetball to the NBA. The talent has never been in question. Now, it’s about proving himself in front of a wider audience. And just like a young Kobe, he’s determined to make every opportunity count.
When asked what he wants to avoid with his major label debut, Vado’s response was simple yet profound: “Not be [myself]. Anything you do, be yourself at it.” It’s a message that speaks to authenticity—something fans have always respected in his music.
The Gunz N’ Butta Album Arrives
The timing of the Interscope announcement couldn’t be better. Just two days from now, Vado and Cam’ron are set to release their highly anticipated project Gunz N’ Butta. The album serves as both a statement and a showcase—proof of Vado’s readiness and Cam’s belief in his protégé.
The tracklist is filled with a mix of street anthems and introspective cuts:
- Killa
- American Greed
- Heat In Here
- Face-Off
- I-Luv U
- Put A Bird Up
- Monster Muzik
- Breathe
- Fuck-A-Freestyle
- Lights, Camera, Action (feat. Skylnn)
- Stop It
- Speaking In Tungs
- Hey Muma
- We All Up In Here
- They Don’t Like You
- Be With Me
- Hey Muma (Instrumental)
- We All Up In Here (Instrumental)
In particular, “American Greed,” the album’s opening track, holds special significance for Vado.
“I’m a concept artist. I take time with my music and really think it out,” Vado explained to VIBE. “I’m not just spitting bars, but I’m bringing you into my world.”
He continued, “Cam brought me here and I’m going to show them. I’m trying to reach the kids that just don’t have sh*t. They out there hustling for someone else. I want to be in every kids’ iPod in Harlem.”
“American Greed” dives into a less-talked-about side of the hustle—the corporate gangsters. Vado calls out the white-collar criminals often overlooked in hip-hop’s narrative. Thus, name-dropping figures like Lou Pearlman and Kirk Wright. It’s a bold take, and it showcases his willingness to step outside the box.
A Powerhouse Roster
Vado’s arrival at Interscope puts him in elite company. He now shares label space with hip-hop giants like Eminem, Dr. Dre, and 50 Cent. The gravity of that isn’t lost on him. Much like Kobe joining a roster that included Eddie Jones and Shaq, Vado understands he’ll be in the shadow of legends. However, he’s also determined to earn his own shine.
That’s the essence of his comparison. It’s not about ego. Instead, it’s about readiness. Vado’s not intimidated by the moment; he’s motivated by it. With guidance from Cam’ron and the backing of a label like Interscope, he’s poised to make his mark. Now, it’s on Vado to execute.
Final Thoughts
Vado’s comparison to Kobe Bryant isn’t just a catchy quote—it’s a powerful metaphor for where he is in his career. He’s entering the major label system with a skillset honed in the mixtape circuit, ready to prove that his talent translates on the biggest stage. Gunz N’ Butta will be the first test, but by all accounts, Vado is more than ready.
As fans count down to the release and the streets continue buzzing, one thing is clear: Vado’s journey is just getting started. And if history is any indicator, this Harlem standout might just become a household name like the Mamba himself.
The excitement surrounding his signing is more than just hype—it’s rooted in potential. With the right support, a clear creative vision, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, Vado has the tools to carve out a legacy all his own. Much like Kobe did in the NBA, he’s stepping into a system with big names but aiming to leave a bigger impact.