August 13, 2008 19:50

Master P pulls a Diddy to 'mark manhood'

Rapper changes name to P. Miller

Hip-hop star Master P has followed in the footsteps of fellow hip-hop mogul P Diddy, by changing his name to P. Miller to reflect his maturity

"I am changing my name because Master P is who I used to be, I call it my childhood and P. Miller marks my manhood. I wouldn't change my past because it has groomed me to be the man I am today.” Miller said, according to perezhilton.

The New Orleans star attributes the name-change to being taken seriously in corporate America, and says he wants to move away from the stereotypes associated with hip-hop.

“Growing up has nothing to do with age. People grow up mentally and spiritually through life experiences, but when you come from hip-hop it is almost impossible to get past the stereo-type it associates you with. I will always love hip-hop; it plays a major role in who I am today. “

“I have branched out into so many different arenas that range from being the first African-American to have a clothing line at Wal-Mart, to writing books, and speaking on Capitol Hill, but all of that gets overshadowed because I come from the hip hop industry.”

He says he wishes to remind younger hip hop artists that there are other opportunities to branch out into.

“It's important for young hip-hop artists to know that they are not limited to one career, they can educate themselves, and prepare for life after hip-hop the same way pro-athletes prepare themselves for life after sports. Also, know that you can branch out into other avenues if you are multi-talented or have other dreams. Many of us can begin new careers, take advantage of different opportunities and still remain true to hip-hop.”

“My goal is to educate the hip-hop culture now and if they don't get it, then hopefully their kids will get it and understand. My fellow hip-hop artists should know that we can't rap forever. I'm glad I'm in a position in my life where I don't have to put out music because I've prepared myself for the future. To build the generational wealth we have to educate our families.”

--By our New York staff.
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