From Touring with Wiz Khalifa to Ranching in Texas
In the bustling music scene of Texas, Mason ‘Bric’ LaDue’s journey from managing tours for artists like Tum Tum, Curren$y, Smoke DZA, and Wiz Khalifa to ranching in Leon County is a tale of reinvention, resilience, and redemption. Rich Post, known as Post Malone’s father, recounts a pivotal moment in 2015 when they attended a Trees concert in Deep Ellum, where Post Malone, then a budding artist, captivated audiences with his performance of “White Iverson.” The show marked the beginning of Post Malone’s meteoric rise to fame and a significant turning point for LaDue.
The Transition to Ranch Life
LaDue, now a 41-year-old rancher, resides on 400 acres of post oak savannah in Leon County, away from the bustling city life. As the sole inhabitant of this vast expanse, he tends to his red Akaushi cattle with a deep sense of connection to the land. Reflecting on his transition from the hip-hop scene to ranching, LaDue shares that while his past as ‘Bric Mason’ in the music industry shaped him, his roots in the ranch have always felt like home. The lush pastures, grazing cattle, and serene landscapes provide a stark contrast to the urban chaos he once thrived in.
A Journey Through Hip-Hop and Touring
LaDue’s foray into the hip-hop industry began during his high school days, where he shared a passion for wrestling with his childhood friend Tum Tum. His involvement with artists like Paul Wall, Slim Thug, and the boogie movement in Dallas-Fort Worth laid the foundation for his career as a tour manager and promoter. The fast-paced, high-energy world of touring with Wiz Khalifa and other artists exposed him to the grit and glamour of the music business. Despite the challenges and chaotic moments on the road, LaDue found solace in the larger-than-life personas and camaraderie shared among artists and crew members.
The Rise and Fall with Post Malone
LaDue’s encounter with Post Malone in Los Angeles marked a significant chapter in both their lives. As Post Malone’s career soared with hits like “White Iverson,” LaDue played a pivotal role in shaping his early success. From organizing shows at South by Southwest to managing Post Malone’s burgeoning career, LaDue became a mentor and friend to the young artist. However, their relationship eventually faded, leaving LaDue with mixed emotions about Post Malone’s massive success and his own unfulfilled expectations. The bitterness and longing for closure lingered, shaping LaDue’s decisions and self-reflection in the years that followed.
Embracing Ranching and Family
The serene landscapes of Leon County provided a sanctuary for LaDue to embark on a new chapter in ranching. His passion for raising red Akaushi cattle and preserving the natural beauty of the land reflect his deep-rooted connection to his family’s legacy. With his brother Justin joining him on the ranch, the LaDue family is committed to sustainability, self-sufficiency, and stewardship of the land. As they cultivate a diverse range of crops and livestock, the vision of a self-sustaining homestead becomes a reality, grounded in shared values of hard work, resilience, and unity.
A Harmonious Blend of Past and Present
In the tranquil setting of Leon County, LaDue finds solace in the rhythmic harmony of ranch life. His bond with Bolero, the horse he purchased from Camp Stewart, symbolizes the journey of growth, patience, and mutual trust. Through the challenges and triumphs of ranching, LaDue embraces the wisdom of the land and the lessons learned from his diverse experiences. As he navigates the complexities of life, music, and family, LaDue’s story resonates as a testament to the enduring spirit of reinvention and the profound connection between man and nature.
