In the 1980s, Mr. T was the toughest dude on television. Homie even got then-First Lady Nancy Reagan to sit on his lap and discuss ways to battle the crack epidemic. And in 1984, he dropped Mr. T's Commandments, a kid-friendly record that encouraged children to stay in school and away from drugs.
But T's reputation as America's baddest bearded black man has since faded and a new breed of badass has emerged -- the dudes of Maybach Music Group, and particularly its captain, Rick Ross.
However, Mr. T's influence is very much alive as evidenced by Mr. Ross's newly unveiled God Forgives, I Don't cover art.
When Rozay drops 2012's most anticipated hip-hop album on July 31, you'll notice the fat gold chunks around the MMG boss's thick neck. Coupled with his heavy beard and mean mug, Ross bares an uncanny resemblance to the former A-Team star.
But the similarities don't end there. Just like Mr. T, Ross is a brilliant marketer, operating less like a businessman and more like a business, man.
Earlier this month, Ross announced a partnership with fashion retailer Urban Outfitters. The publicly traded company and MMG have teamed up to sell a limited-edition t-shirt at participating stores and online.
Dressing like a hipster boss will only cost you $19.99 plus shipping and handling. We pity the fool who doesn't jump on that deal.
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