Introduction to Rick Ross
Rick Ross burst onto the hip hop scene in the mid-2000s with a unique Southern rap style and larger-than-life persona that led to massive mainstream success. Born William Leonard Roberts II in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Ross had a passion for rap from a young age. After relocating to Miami, Florida as a teenager, he became engrossed in the city’s thriving hip hop culture.
Ross started his career ghostwriting lyrics for other artists before making his solo debut with the 2006 single "Hustlin’." His deep voice and vivid storytelling painted a lavish, gangster lifestyle of wealth, women, and drug dealing. This single helped cement his signature style of "luxury rap" and paved the way for his debut album Port of Miami, released on Def Jam Records later that year.
The album was a commercial smash, debuting at #1 on the Billboard charts. Ross had successfully brought the energy and attitude of Southern street rap to a national audience. He quickly became one of the biggest rap stars of the late 2000s with his ability to deliver catchy hooks and slick metaphors referencing pop culture and high fashion brands. His unique style of combining lyrical prowess with extravagant production struck a chord with fans worldwide.
Rick Ross’ Best-Selling Albums
Rick Ross has released 10 studio albums in his prolific career, several of which have gone on to achieve multi-platinum sales. His 2006 debut Port of Miami was the first to put Rick Ross on the map, peaking at #1 on the US Billboard 200 and eventually going platinum. Music critics praised Ross’ cinematic beats and vivid storytelling on hard-hitting tracks like "Hustlin’" and "Push It".
His follow up Trilla arrived in 2008, debuting atop the Billboard 200 and earning RIAA platinum certification. Hits like "The Boss" and "Here I Am" featured Ross’ signature southern flow and lavish lyrics. Reviewers noted his refined lyricism and ear for soulful production.
However, Ross’ magnum opus came in the form of 2012’s God Forgives, I Don’t. It became his second #1 album and his first to go double platinum. The record contained Ross’ highest charting single to date, "Stay Schemin’", and the anthemic "3 Kings" featuring Dr. Dre and Jay-Z. Critics called it Ross’ most focused and conceptually cohesive effort.
Other major commercial successes for Ross include 2014’s Mastermind (certified gold) and 2015’s Black Market (also gold), which both debuted in the Billboard 200 top 10. Rather You Than Me (2017) and Port of Miami 2 (2019) likewise reached the top 5 of the charts, demonstrating Ross’ consistency in delivering chart-topping albums his fans crave.
Rick Ross’ Greatest Hits and Most Popular Songs
Rick Ross has many hugely popular singles that became radio staples and fan favorites over the years. Here are some of his most iconic hits:
"Hustlin’"
"Hustlin’" was the breakout debut single from Rick Ross in 2006 and introduced the world to his unique Miami rap style. The song was a smash hit, peaking at #54 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #2 on the Hot Rap Songs chart. Its cinematic music video helped cement Ross’ larger-than-life kingpin image. With its raspy Lex Luger-produced beat and infectious hook, "Hustlin’" remains one of Ross’ signature tracks.
"Aston Martin Music"
Featured on Ross’ acclaimed 2010 album Teflon Don, "Aston Martin Music" is a standout hip-hop/R&B crossover track featuring Chrisette Michele and Drake. The stylish single peaked at #98 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2010. With Rick Ross flexing his lyrical skills alongside Drake’s silky vocals and Chrisette Michele’s sultry chorus, "Aston Martin Music" became one of Ross’ most smooth and infectious hits.
"Stay Schemin’"
Appearing on Ross’ 2012 album God Forgives, I Don’t, "Stay Schemin’" is one of his biggest hip-hop hits. The track features Rick Ross delivering witty boasts alongside French Montana and Drake. It peaked at #46 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #3 on Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. With its memorable beat and quotable lyrics, "Stay Schemin’" is considered a modern rap classic.
With his unmistakable voice and vivid storytelling, Rick Ross has crafted numerous legendary singles over his prolific career that have made him a hip-hop icon.
The Hardest and Most Legendary Rick Ross Songs
Rick Ross has released his fair share of laidback, radio-friendly hits over the years. But it’s his menacing street anthems that have cemented his status as a rap icon. These hard-hitting tracks showcase Ross at his most aggressive, spitting gritty tales from his past over thunderous trap beats.
Songs like "B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast)" and "Hold Me Back" contain some of the rawest, most vivid lyrics in Ross’ catalog. On "B.M.F.," he delivers an onslaught of boasts about his lavish drug-dealing lifestyle: "I think I’m Big Meech, Larry Hoover/Whippin’ work, hallelujah." Meanwhile on "Hold Me Back," Ross vividly depicts his days as a feared drug kingpin who isn’t afraid to use violence: "AK-47’s, MAC-11’s, Glocks and nines."
According to Ross, many of his hardest tracks reflect real events from his past as a drug dealer and gang affiliate in Miami. This authenticity is a major reason why his vivid tales connect with listeners. Other rappers also praise Ross as one of the greatest storytellers in hip-hop. His attention to detail makes his drug-world narratives come alive.
Beyond his lyrics, Ross’ menacing vocal presence and the haunting trap production on songs like "B.M.F." and "Hold Me Back" make them two of the most legendary tracks in his catalog. When Ross is at his most aggressive, he cements his reputation as an larger-than-life kingpin. For many fans, these hard-hitting anthems represent peak Ross and why his status in rap remains untouchable.
Best Features and Collaborations by Rick Ross
Rick Ross has collaborated with many of the biggest names in hip hop throughout his prolific career. Here are some of his most popular and acclaimed tracks as a featured artist:
"I’m On One" with DJ Khaled, Drake, and Lil Wayne
This 2011 smash hit single off DJ Khaled’s We the Best Forever album peaked at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100. Rick Ross delivers a memorable opening verse with clever boasts and witty wordplay. His aggressive flow complements the laidback styles of Drake and Lil Wayne perfectly. According to Khaled, Ross recorded his verse in just one take.
"FuckWithMeYouKnowIGotIt" with Jay-Z
This high-energy anthem appears on Jay-Z’s 2013 album Magna Carta Holy Grail. Rick Ross trades verses with Hov over a bumping Lex Luger beat. Ross holds his own against the rap legend, delivering quotable lines like "Came up from grams to keys to having G5’s on the runway." The song hit #21 on the Hot 100.
"Monster" with Kanye West, Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj and Bon Iver
Ross was the only featured artist given a verse on this heavily rotated track from Kanye’s 2010 album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. His gritty organized crime-themed bars are sandwiched between verses from Jay-Z and Nicki Minaj. Despite the star-studded lineup, Ross manages to deliver one of the song’s most memorable moments.
"All The Way Up" with Fat Joe and Remy Ma
This 2016 single reunited New York rap icons Fat Joe and Remy Ma. Ross adds a touch of Southern flavor with a scene-stealing guest verse. His luxurious punchlines like "David Beckham, I’m comin’ hard as a spike" helped propel the track to #27 on the Hot 100 and 4x platinum status.
"Pop That" with Drake, Lil Wayne and French Montana
Ross connects with Young Money’s A-listers Drake and Lil Wayne plus French Montana on this club banger from DJ Khaled’s 2012 album Kiss the Ring. Over a booming Beat Bully production, Ross delivers a characteristically lavish verse touching on high fashion and luxury cars. The posse cut peaked at #36 on the Hot 100.
These collaborations demonstrate Rick Ross’ versatility and ability to complement a wide range of artists. His standout contributions have earned him a reputation as one of hip hop’s most in-demand featured rappers.
Music Videos & Performances
Rick Ross has released many iconic and visually stunning music videos over the years that showcase his lavish lifestyle and cinematic imagination. Some of his most memorable videos include:
Hustlin’
The music video for "Hustlin’" perfectly encapsulates Rick Ross’ luxurious kingpin persona. It features Ross partying on yachts, lounging in mansions, and flossing expensive cars and jewelry. The video’s gritty cinematography and desaturated colors further portray his boss status. Famous rapper Fat Joe makes a cameo.
Aston Martin Music
With its lush tropical setting and flashy sports cars, the video for "Aston Martin Music" shows Ross and his crew living the high life. It switches between scenes of Ross cruising in an Aston Martin, relaxing at the beach, and performing at an extravagant mansion party.
Stay Schemin’
French Montana and Drake join Ross in this stylish video that has the rappers sailing on a yacht and popping bottles at a rooftop party in Miami. It captures the lavish South Beach lifestyle that Ross embodies.
B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast)
The epic video for "B.M.F." shows Ross partying at his Atlanta mansion that’s filled with luxury cars and scantily clad women. The dark visuals and Champagne-filled scenes cement Ross’ image as a big boss.
Ross is also known for his energetic and entertaining live shows. His performances feature multi-level stages, pyrotechnics, and lavish set designs. He often brings out special guests like Meek Mill, Wale, and Lil Wayne. Some of his most iconic live moments include rocking the crowd at Jay Z’s Made in America festival and his show-stopping performance with Lil Wayne at the 2011 BET Awards.
Complete Discography
Rick Ross has an extensive discography spanning over 15 years. Here is a complete overview of his catalog in chronological order:
1999 – Rise to Power
Rick Ross’ debut album released independently in 1999. This helped launch his rap career in the southern hip hop scene.
2006 – Port of Miami
Debut studio album released on Def Jam Recordings. Singles include "Hustlin’" and "Push It". Certified gold.
2008 – Trilla
Second studio album featuring "The Boss" featuring T-Pain. Debuted at #1 on Billboard 200.
2009 – Deeper Than Rap
Third studio album with hit single "Magnificent" featuring John Legend.
2010 – Teflon Don
Fourth album with tracks "B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast)" and "Aston Martin Music". Went platinum.
2011 – God Forgives, I Don’t
Fifth studio album that debuted #1 on Billboard 200 and went gold.
2012 – God Forgives, I Don’t (Deluxe Edition)
Deluxe version added 8 bonus tracks.
2012 – The Black Bar Mitzvah
Mixtape hosted by DJ Drama and DJ Scream.
2014 – Mastermind
Sixth studio album featuring "War Ready" and "Thug Cry". Debuted at #1.
2015 – Black Dollar
Mixtape released for free via DatPiff.
2015 – Black Market
Seventh studio album with tracks "Sorry" and "Foreclosures".
2017 – Rather You Than Me
Ninth studio album featuring Chris Rock. Debuted at #2 on Billboard 200.
2018 – Port of Miami 2
Tenth studio album, sequel to his debut. Singles "Gold Roses" and "Turnpike Ike".
2020 – Richer Than I’ve Ever Been
Eleventh studio album with features from Future, Jeezy, and Benny the Butcher.
Full Catalog:
You can stream Rick Ross’ full catalog on Spotify and Apple Music.
Lyrics:
Find all of Rick Ross’ lyrics on sites like Genius and AZ Lyrics.
Rick Ross’ Legacy
Rick Ross leaves behind an impressive legacy as one of the most successful Southern rappers of all time. With 9 studio albums, 4 gold records, and 3 number one albums on the Billboard 200, Ross has cemented himself as a hip hop legend.
His unique style blended soulful beats, lavish lyrics, and his trademark grunt have influenced countless artists. He helped bring the Southern trap sound into the mainstream and inspired rappers to embrace their hometowns. Songs like "Hustlin’" and "B.M.F." are considered classics that helped define 2000s rap.
Ross’ legacy extends beyond music as well. He’s expanded his brand into business, film, TV, and books. His Mastermind album and book laid out his keys to success and inspired entrepreneurs. Ross also gave back to his community, donating to schools and charities in Florida.
As for the future, Ross shows no signs of slowing down. At 45, he continues releasing music and says he has plenty left in the tank. Fans can expect more sharp lyrics, smooth beats, and inspired collaborations. With nearly 2 decades in the game, Rick Ross has proven that hustle, loyalty, and dedication can lead to a lasting legacy.
Personal Life
Rick Ross, born William Leonard Roberts II, was born in Clarksdale, Mississippi and raised in Carol City, Florida. He has kept his personal life relatively private over the years.
In terms of family, Ross has four children with three different women – William Roberts III, Billion Leonard Roberts, Berkeley Hermes Roberts, and Brielle Roberts. He prefers to keep the details of his relationships and family life out of the public eye.
Over the course of his career, Ross has faced some legal issues and controversies. In 2008, he was arrested on gun and marijuana charges. In 2011, a lawsuit alleged Ross promoted gang rape in his lyrics. He’s also had disputes with other rappers that spilled into public view.
Despite the controversies, Ross has given back to his community in many ways. He founded several charitable organizations focused on providing opportunities and resources for youth. Some of his philanthropic efforts include feeding the hungry, providing scholarships, and creating community programs.
In addition to music, Ross has built a successful business empire under his Boss brand. He owns several Wingstop franchises and launched a line of energy drinks. Ross also oversees a record label, several apparel lines, a book publishing company, and more – building him an estimated net worth of $40 million. His entrepreneurial ventures show his business acumen beyond the world of hip hop.
Influence on Other Artists
Rick Ross’ unique style and persona have been hugely influential on the new generation of rappers. His luxurious lyrics and larger-than-life swagger inspired many of today’s biggest hip hop stars.
Drake has called Ross "one of the most inspiring artists" and credits him for paving the way for melodic rappers. In an interview, Drake said "Rick Ross is the reason I started singing and rapping…he made me realize I could do both".
Meek Mill views Ross as his mentor, with Ross signing Meek to his Maybach Music Group label in 2011. Meek credits Ross for teaching him the business side of rap, saying "He showed me how to be an entrepreneur, own my masters, own my rights."
J. Cole has named Ross as one of his biggest influences, along with Jay-Z. Cole admires Ross’ storytelling abilities and credits him for opening doors for Southern hip hop. "He inspired a whole generation after him" Cole said.
Rising star Roddy Ricch also calls Ross one of his idols. He praises Ross’ ear for beats and unique vocal style. "That slow flow, the street stories, the luxury – that’s all Ross" Roddy said. "He’s a legend, an icon. Nobody can do it like Rozay."
Even outside of hip hop, artists like Bruno Mars have cited Ross as an inspiration. The melodies and songwriting on Mars’ "24K Magic" album were heavily inspired by Ross’ lush sounds.
Overall, Ross has left a profound mark on rap’s landscape. His peers unanimously praise his artistry and influence. As Drake said, "There is no Rick Ross in rap. He’s the one and only."