When Mase announced his decision to quit music and follow God, it took everyone by surprise. Even more shocking, to some, is how genuinely heartfelt Mase is about it.

The Bad Boy rapper, who declared his immediate retirement last week (see "Mase To Retire From Rap, Cites Religious Reasons"), told MTV News that there is a difference between organized religion and God, and that the termination of his musical career is sincere.

[article id="1447824"]"It takes a great person to walk away from money,"[/article] said Mase. [article id="1447824"]"If you ask any person, 'Would you walk away from that money to do something you felt in your heart?' and nobody agreed.... It takes not only a great person. It takes a strong person. It takes a courageous person. It takes a person that you've never encountered. And everybody always questions what's real. 'What's real about Mase?' This is the realest thing

you ever seen." [RealVideo][/article]

The last of his musical efforts, "Double Up," is due out on June 15. The album will feature the old, familiar Mase, since it was finished before the rapper made his big announcement.

Mase will not be performing at any concert dates in support of the album. Instead he will be featured at speaking engagements only. He will also continue to be involved with charity events aimed at helping inner-city youth.