Joyner Lucas’s “Mask Off” remix sparked a firestorm of speculation, with many believing he was taking shots at some of the biggest names in hip-hop. In a 2017 interview with HipHopDX, Lucas clarified his intentions, addressing the line “Don’t compare me to Logic, go listen to Sriracha,” and discussing his views on competition in the rap game.
Lucas explained that the “Mask On” remix wasn’t intended as a diss track, but rather a display of competitive spirit. He emphasized his admiration for artists like Future and Kendrick Lamar, clarifying that he doesn’t consider Future a mumble rapper and that he chose the “Mask Off” beat due to its popularity and his personal fondness for it. He wanted to showcase his skills on a widely recognized track.
The line that drew the most attention, “Don’t compare me to Logic, go listen to Sriracha,” referencing their collaboration on Tech N9ne’s track of the same name, prompted questions about a potential feud. Lucas clarified that there was no beef with Logic, but acknowledged “mixed emotions” stemming from behind-the-scenes issues. He maintained that he respects Logic’s talent, emphasizing that his comments weren’t meant as bullying or personal attacks, but rather reflections of undisclosed events.
Addressing the broader hip-hop landscape, Lucas described the current environment as a blend of competition and collaboration. He saw beef and competition as intertwined, with the former being a more intense manifestation of the latter. While acknowledging the presence of both, he observed a growing trend of artists working together rather than engaging in conflicts. He also humbly stated that he didn’t consider himself better than Kendrick Lamar, acknowledging Lamar’s superior lyrical abilities. However, Lucas remained confident in his own potential for growth and reaching the top tier of hip-hop artists.
At the time of the interview, Lucas was preparing to release his project 508-507-2209, titled after his own phone number. He described the project as a diverse collection reflecting his personal vision, encompassing storytelling and a variety of musical styles. He encouraged fans to call the number and connect with him directly. This unique approach to album promotion highlighted his desire to engage with his audience and build a personal connection. The album promised a deep dive into Lucas’s artistry and creative process.
