"I was a student of rap music before I even considered becoming an artist… I can also see the lighter side of living a hard life and I never forgot the things that are important to the same people that live the way I've lived"

Mack 10's career reads like a history book: it has a definite genesis, growth period, and maturity. He entered the game without stripes-a virtual new jack. He eventually gained some acclaim for his memorable appearance as the "crimey" in Ice Cube's video, "What Can I Do?" Following the successful string of chart-topping singles, Mack 10 joined in on putting another twist in the game with his involvement in the Westside Connection. Accompanied by label-mate and mentor, Ice Cube, and rap cohort, WC, Mack has stretched the boundaries of rap. Participation in this powerhouse trio generated much buzz in the music industry with the release of their album, Bow Down. The album went on to become one of the most talked about rap albums of the decade. The mere mention of the group in certain circles has caused debate at best and controversy for sure. Mack 10 teams up once again with his label-mate and long time friend, Ice Cube, to put together "The Guppies." The song touches upon the "new jack" status of wannabe paper-chasers that can't compete with seasoned rhyme stylists, like Mack and Cube. Mack flaunts skills on "Inglewood Swangin'" with the pride of out nation's anthem. Looping (and tricking) the Kool and the Gang classic, "Hollywood Swangin'" Mack 10 delves into his home team anthem with a veteran's spirit and surely a hero's welcome. To further compliment the "…Story," line, Mack 10 recreates the N.W.A classic, "Dopeman." Of course the suit has been tailored to fit one Mack 10. Alongside the classic revision, Mack also empowers the new generation of gangsta rap lovers with the second blow from the one-two punch, "What You Need (Dopeman '97)."