Master P Retiring from Rap After Essence Fest: “Say Hello to Coach P” [Video]

Master P is clocking out of the studio and clocking in courtside.

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The rap mogul just announced that his final show will take place at the 2025 Essence Festival in New Orleans, and from there, he’s pivoting full-time into college basketball. The New Orleans native isn’t just making a career switch; he’s now the President of Basketball Operations for the University of New Orleans men’s team.

“Me being a coach here and being able to change and save these kids’ life, take kids off the street, give kids an opportunity to get degrees at Division 1 schools. It’s so important for me,” he said in a recent interview with WDSU.

Master P’s decision to step away from music isn’t random. He’s already got a track record for developing young hoopers. Through his P. Miller’s Ballers program, he’s helped mold NBA stars like DeMar DeRozan and Jalen Suggs. He’s been coaching, mentoring, and investing in youth sports for over 20 years.

The 2025 Essence Festival, running from July 4–6, will serve as his final bow. It’s a fitting place to end the journey, back where it all started. Over his three-decade run, Master P turned No Limit Records into a cultural force, sold over 100 million records, and played a role in shaping Southern Hip-Hop.

Beyond music, he’s built an empire touching film, fashion, and real estate. Now, he’s focused on building something new, starting with UNO’s basketball program and offering kids from the city a shot at something bigger.

As far as he’s concerned, the spotlight hasn’t dimmed, just shifted.