Gunplay on Rick Ross, Def Jam & Regrets Over $50K Publishing Deal

Rapper Gunplay is speaking out about frustrations with the trajectory of his music career, alleging a pattern of stalled momentum stemming from a lack of support from Rick Ross and Def Jam Recordings. The Miami-based artist detailed his experiences in a recent interview on the “I Say That 2 Say This Podcast,” painting a picture of unfulfilled potential despite delivering tracks that resonated with audiences.

Gunplay, who identifies as a foundational member of Rick Ross’s MMG collective, claims that the collaborative spirit that fueled Ross’s success didn’t extend to his own projects. “When it was Ross’s turn, everybody was a group effort,” he stated. “When it was Gunplay’s turn, it was crickets.” This perceived disparity in support, he argues, hampered his ability to capitalize on songs like “Bible on the Dash” and “Yams,” which gained traction organically but lacked the promotional push needed for broader commercial success.

Early Days with MMG and Def Jam

Gunplay’s relationship with Rick Ross dates back to the formation of Triple C’s (Carol City Cartel) in 2005, alongside rappers Torch and Young Breed. According to his Wikipedia entry, he first appeared on Ross’s 2009 album, Deeper Than Rap, with the track “Gunplay.” He continued to release mixtapes under the Maybach Music Group banner, building a reputation within the hip-hop community. In July 2012, he signed a solo deal with Def Jam Recordings, a move that initially signaled a significant step forward in his career.

However, Gunplay alleges that the promise of the Def Jam deal never fully materialized. He describes a frustrating cycle where responsibility for his stalled career was passed back and forth between Ross and Def Jam executives. “They’ll play ping pong,” he explained. “Ross says it’s on Def Jam. Then Def Jam says it’s on fat boy.” This lack of clear accountability, he contends, left him in a precarious position, struggling to navigate the industry without adequate backing.

Financial Strain and a Regrettable Publishing Deal

The absence of label support had tangible financial consequences for Gunplay. He revealed that he was forced to return to street activity to make ends meet, describing desperate acts as “a cry for support.” He recounted a specific instance, stating, “Let me get that chain,” referring to robberies he committed while facing financial hardship.

Adding to his difficulties, Gunplay expressed regret over a publishing deal he entered into with Sony ATV. He sold his publishing rights for $50,000, but only received $25,000 upfront. This deal, he now realizes, was unfavorable and further limited his financial control over his music. As reported by Hot97, this deal continues to haunt him.

A Fractured Relationship and Lingering Loyalty

The situation has reportedly strained Gunplay’s relationship with Rick Ross. When asked about their current communication, he responded simply, “Not really as of lately. No.” Despite the apparent distance, Gunplay emphasized his past loyalty to Ross and the MMG crew. “When it came to MMG, if you mess with Ross, you mess with Gunplay,” he asserted, highlighting his willingness to defend Ross’s interests even at his own expense.

Gunplay’s story resonates with broader conversations about power dynamics and artist exploitation within the music industry. National Today notes that his claims highlight how talent and loyalty don’t always guarantee success, particularly when labels and management fail to provide adequate support. His experience serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring artists navigating the complexities of the music business.

What’s Next for Gunplay?

While Gunplay’s recent revelations focus on past grievances, his future remains open. He has not publicly announced any immediate plans for new music or projects. However, his willingness to speak candidly about his experiences suggests a desire to reclaim his narrative and potentially forge a new path forward, perhaps independent of the traditional label system. The artist’s next steps will likely depend on his ability to leverage his story and connect with fans directly, building a sustainable career on his own terms.