Cook Tha Monster

Mark “Cook Tha Monster” Cook, who was born in Pittsburgh but raised in Atlanta until he was 15, doesn’t have time to waste. While the longtime Govament member has been pursuing his rap career for as long as he can remember, he was forced to take a temporary hiatus after being sentenced to 5 years in a Pennsylvania penitentiary.

“That was then and this is now,” Cook says, with a cold, focused stare. “My work ethic and drive right now are crazy,” he says, walking across the room toward the recording booth. He isn’t exaggerating. Since his release last year, Cook has amassed a catalog of material and dropped a complete mixtape titled “Tha Cook Up.”

By working with old friends like S.Money and Boaz, as well as industry artists Waka Flocka, Wooh Da Kid, Alley Boy and Fetti Gang, Cook has received attention from both independent and major labels. As he continues to perfect his musical craft, Cook has also put together a street team and is working to establish his online presence.

“The ultimate goal,” Cook says, sitting up and taking a hit from the blunt in his hand, “is getting into this industry… I’m willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen. By any means necessary.” With new projects and collaborations on the horizon, and a new label situation developing, that goal seems closer than ever.

Within the last month, Brick Squad Monopoly has shown interest in signing Cook and polishing him for industry success. While they are still ironing out the details, Cook is certain that the deal will go through. “It’s G.O.V. forever and now it’s Brick Squad too. We’re coming together to put in work and achieve that ultimate goal.”

Cook stares intently at the pad on his lap, nodding his head and anxiously jotting lyrics as the bass-heavy beat fills the room. “This is it… the time is now,” Cook says as he leans back in his chair. “It’s my time now.”