Styles P Is Back

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Hardcore conscious emcee Styles P's broken leg may be nearing full recovery, but he is in no hurry to mend relations with the major label scene. Formerly known as the Ghost, the Phantom recently parted ways with longtime label Ruff Ryders/Interscope Records and reportedly says he'll mostly entertain offers from independent labels and distributors.

"I want to get properly paid for my work," says the Phantom. "I think I'm too street for them to ever put me on a high industry pedestal. I get respect 'cause I'm a made man, because of the work I do."

The aptly titled 'Time is Money' was delayed some three years by Ruff Ryders/Interscope and has not been bolstered by a radio single or video since it's December 19 release. The Phantom vows this time not only to get busy as an emcee but 'to try to handle it as a CEO, a businessman.'

He is still signed to Ruff Ryders/Interscope as a member of the LOX, which plans to drop its' third group album this year. But the Phantom's solo act kicks into high gear this spring. There's no title for his third solo opus at press time.