Master P has responded to Mia X’s Essence Fest departure with a strong statement defending his legacy and reputation ahead of his farewell performance.
Southern rap mogul Master P has responded to public claims made by Mia X, the First Lady of No Limit Records, who earlier this week announced she would not be performing at Essence Festival during what has been billed as his final live performance.
In a lengthy and emotionally charged statement posted to social media titled “Say Goodbye to the Bad Guy,” Master P addressed the backlash and what he described as “drama and comedy” surrounding the situation. Without naming Mia X directly, he shared his disappointment over the public nature of the dispute, stating, “I agreed to pay her whatever she asked for. Going to social media after I’ve agreed to do whatever she wanted is disappointing.”
The New Orleans rapper defended his legacy, emphasizing his long-standing contributions to the community and artists, who were once part of the No Limit family.
“I’ve been giving back to our communities for over 25 years… put artists on… gave them opportunities that nobody else would,” he wrote in a since-deleted Instagram post. “It’s been over 20 years ago that these artists were signed to me, and since then they’ve moved on to other labels. And I still showed love.”
Mia X previously explained her decision to withdraw from the July 6 Essence Fest performance, citing miscommunication, lack of rehearsal time, a late contract and disrespect around negotiations. She also expressed frustration over being advertised without her formal agreement, despite not finalizing terms.
Master P, in turn, rejected accusations of disrespect or poor communication.
“How is it poor communication if my management has been speaking to artists directly for years and paying them for shows they’ve booked?” he asked. “And how is it disrespectful to offer a compensation larger than whatever the artist has ever received for a show?”
While Mia X framed her statement around professionalism, transparency and the need to protect Black women in business, Master P suggested ulterior motives from those around him.
“The disciples did Jesus dirty so I know what they’ll try to do me,” he wrote, adding that many people were “only around you for the benefits.”
The upcoming performance, still scheduled for July 6 at Essence Fest in New Orleans, is being promoted as Master P’s farewell celebration—a milestone in a storied career that transformed Southern Hip-Hop and empowered numerous artists.
“I’m focusing on coaching and making a difference,” Master P concluded. “We gon’ turn up one more time for Essence. Salute to all my real Soldiers.”
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