Mack “M.A. Cee-Kings” Buckley (formerly known as “Hard Knock Life”) is a multi-talented artist, author, and businessman. He knew early in his life that his passion for music would eventually lead to not only a successful music career, but also the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. He was introduced to ‘rhyming’ as a young child when he began reading books written by “Dr. Seuss”, and he began honing his ‘rhyming’ ability every day afterward in preparation for a career in Hip Hop.
With over 20 years of experience as an emcee (“Master of Ceremonies”), “M.A. Cee-Kings” has mastered the musical art of penning lyrics that his audience can both identify with and be entertained by while still receiving his message. His lyricism and ability to express original and concise thoughts using the vernacular of Hip Hop is notable, yet the skill was created as a result of overcoming years of trials and tribulations throughout his life. Concerning the adversity he’s stood against in Life, he once stated:
“The story of my life summarized was eloquently spoken by the late great Tupac Shakur when he said, ‘I was born not to make it, but I did. The tribulations of a ghetto kid…But, still I rise.’ I am a result of the strength it took to get this far.”
However, concerning his creative gift as a music artist, Mack is best-represented through his ‘rhymes’. Listeners can nod their heads to the beat while visualizing his thoughts and relating to him as an artist that has endured many of the same hardships that they do. His story of struggle at home, in the streets, prison and triumphs flow over his tracks. His songs “This Is Hip Hop”, “My Heart”, and “I Think Ah” are examples of what the artist can offer Hip Hop and a brief summary of who Mack is as a Hip Hop artist.
Still, he continues to strive for all that is beyond ‘excellence’ in his music production and music career. When asked for a quote that he lives by, Mack replied: ”I’ll become a better version of me before I become someone else. Anything less is unacceptable.”