Dear People:
From what I've heard from friends, Puffy received as much as he would have made off 1 multiplatinum album in sales and markup, for doing the show with MTV. MTV was generous in their contract. It was good for his bottom line.
Also, the show arose when Puffy was also reassessing his distribution deal options. I believe he went with SONY as the major distributor rather than Arista. I remembered SONY needed to strengthen its Urban Music roster, and Bad Boy was going to fit in well. A contract for the show may have given him more leverage in the negotiations. All 2-in labels were suffering 1-2 years ago. He had problems releasing a multiplatinum artist as of late, and this seemed like the best springboard to capitalise. I've heard "Da Band" and don't think they have what it takes to go multiplatinum, but Puffy works with some of the best independent record promoters out there, so I wouldn't count him out.
If he makes another "Da Band," soon, he will get more money from MTV, because the first show was a hit, and might get another "Band" out that, which will at least go platinum.
For Puffy it was a no lose situation. MTV paid him for what was an advertisement (the show) for him and bad boy records. He also got exposure for a band which, through such exposure, I think, will at least go platinum (if they have 2-3 good singles on it.)
The first single is more of an introductory track, it's not made in Puffy's usual production style.
For the people that can't believe the antics of the members of "Da Band," I do. Rappers are some of the hardest people to work with because of their bad attitudes (especially if they're signed) and arrogance. They believe everything should be handed to them on a silver platter for who they are, and they will argue with you on every detail even though they are very wrong.
Sincerely,
God