Mustard Makes rapping debut on heartfelt new track "Pray For Me"

Is the DJ star releasing his own rap album?

Renowned Cali beatmaker Mustard is stepping into a new role with his latest single "Pray For Me," marking his debut as a rapper. Released on Friday (July 12), the track is set to be a key highlight of his forthcoming album, Faith of a Mustard Seed, due later this month.

In "Pray For Me," Mustard opens up about his personal experiences, touching on themes of family, loss, and resilience. "I always used to say I would never rap on a song," Mustard shared with XXL. "I feel like people have never heard my side of any story. But I felt like this was the perfect time to explain to everybody where I’ve been for the last five years."

Mustard's decision to step behind the mic was driven by a desire to share something deeply personal and honest. "I always wanted to talk about something that was real to me, and that, even if you didn’t like the rap, you really like, understood he’s saying some real shit, what he’s saying is honest, and it’s vulnerable," he added.

The album's title, Faith of a Mustard Seed, holds special significance. Mustard revealed that the late Nipsey Hussle inspired the title. While working on the title track for his 2019 album Perfect Ten, Nipsey suggested the name, but Mustard had already chosen a different title. Nipsey urged him, saying, "Well before it’s all said and done, you gotta do Faith Of A Mustard Seed."

Reflecting on Nipsey's words, Mustard knew the title was fitting when he sampled a Luther Vandross song, a favorite of his mother. The new album, set to be released on July 26, will come through a new partnership with BMG.

"I’m happy to join forces with BMG, a company known for its dedication to nurturing artistic independence, integrity, and innovation," Mustard.