Today, Mask Off is a topic of general interest that is becoming more and more relevant in society. Its impact extends to different areas, from politics to popular culture, generating constant debates and reflections. The importance of Mask Off lies not only in its influence today, but also in its historical value and its relevance for the future. In this article, we will explore different aspects related to Mask Off, analyzing its impact in different contexts and providing a comprehensive perspective on this topic that is so relevant today.
"Mask Off" is a song by American rapper Future for his eponymous fifth studio album Future (2017). The track was later released as the second single after initially charting as an album track and receiving more popularity than the lead single "Draco". It was Future's highest-charting single, peaking at number five on the US Billboard Hot 100, until the releases of "Life Is Good" (2020), "Way 2 Sexy" (2021), and "Wait for U" (2022), with the former peaking at number two, and the latter two peaking at number one. The song was also his highest charting solo song until "Puffin on Zootiez" (2022) peaked at number four. A remix featuring Kendrick Lamar, was released on June 16, 2016.
Composition
The song samples "Prison Song" by Carlton Williams, released in 1978 as part of his musical Selma. In this track, Future opens up about drug use and addiction problems (Percocets, Molly Percocets). It also tells a story that explores the surface of Future's past, from trapping to living a life of luxury.
The music video for "Mask Off" was released on May 5, 2017. It was directed by Colin Tilley. It features appearances from Amber Rose and DJ Esco.
Live performances and remixes
The official remix features a guest appearance from fellow American rapper Kendrick Lamar and was mixed by engineer Alex Tumay, released on May 23, 2017. Its release follows the performance of "Mask Off" by Future alongside Kendrick Lamar at the 2017 Coachella Festival. Lamar performed live covers of "Mask Off" at every show on the Damn Tour since the release of the remix.
On June 16, 2017, a remix produced by Marshmello was released, which was deemed ironic by some as the DJ is known for masking his identity behind his namesake marshmallow-inspired helmet.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the song experienced a resurgence, especially due to the lyrics in the chorus, "Mask on, fuck it, mask off." Future and the FreeWishes Foundation announced the "Mask On" campaign and provided more than 100,000 masks during the pandemic.
^"ČNS IFPI" (in Czech). Hitparáda – Digital Top 100 Oficiální. IFPI Czech Republic. Note: Change the chart to CZ – SINGLES DIGITAL – TOP 100 and insert 201716 into search. Retrieved April 25, 2017.
^"ČNS IFPI" (in Slovak). Hitparáda – Singles Digital Top 100 Oficiálna. IFPI Czech Republic. Note: Select SINGLES DIGITAL - TOP 100 and insert 201714 into search. Retrieved April 11, 2017.