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Welcome Back (by Mase, Rap)

common sense media says

Squeaky-clean but viable rap music.

parents & educators say
See all 8 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that Mase "retired" from the music world several years ago to join the ministry, and is now back with squeaky-clean but viable rap music -- proof that it can be done!

Positive messages: Exemplary, actually.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Mase makes a point of keeping it clean.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: CD includes an insert ad for Bad Boy clothing.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Welcome Back

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about why so many other rappers think you need to use violence and sex to make good music.

What's the story?

What's the story?
Coming out of a "retirement" of several years, Mase is back with a new attitude. After a couple of hugely successful projects ("Harlem World" sold something like 4 million copies), the former Puff Daddy sidekick left the music business to pursue a career in the ministry, and his new album WELCOME BACK is self-consciously (and self-referentially) squeaky-clean in every possible way.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Mase has a laconic vocal style that can get monotonous after a while, but he's articulate and his songs are easy to understand. He seems serious about his mission and his ministry, while continuing to write viable and interesting lyrics.

The title song, "Welcome Back," is an irresistible confection that uses the "Welcome Back Kotter" theme song as a counterpoint to the artist's self-congratulatory re-entry as a recording artist. Lovely background vocals and cleverly layered tracks help the song -- and its message -- shine. The rest of the album is less interesting, but well produced and sincere. Mase's message and ministry will make Welcome Back especially appealing to Christian families.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: August 24, 2004
Label: Bad Boy Entertainment
Genre: Rap
This review was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

d-12 forever
kid, 11 years old
7
 
not bad,but not good either
really i just don't like it
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helped me decide (9) | had useful details (6) | read my mind (6)
G2B
kid, 13 years old
9
 
Good album for anyone :)
Mason (Mase) is a talented singer/rapper. Its good to know theres a positive rapper out there. This album doesn't swear to. Suitable for youngers (7-10) . Although kids/tennagers that are older might like it to. I know i like it and im 12. So its for anyone really :)
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Hamelbum
adult
 
Mase
Great rap for kids of all ages.
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decider1
kid, 13 years old
2
 
It's all in the review ,
The best rap/r&b singer is right here , and iv'e never ever found a rapper who doesn't swear , but its all here ! Great songs , all clean , no swearing , and i think that everyone and/or anyone should be able to hear this . Good album :D
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anguskong22
teen, 16 years old
 
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kelton10
teen, 14 years old
8
 
good
good
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helped me decide (7) | had useful details (5) | read my mind (5)
BenjyBoy10
kid, 11 years old
4
 
Finally a rapper without a pottymouth!
I love the title track! Great for the youngsters!
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linkinjayz
adult
 
Mase=Great 4 All Ages
One of the best rap albums period.
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helped me decide (4) | had useful details (7) | read my mind (3)

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