Quick Read
- Tone Loc revealed as Handyman on ‘The Masked Singer’ Season 14.
- The rapper joined the show after a dare from his children.
- Clues included candy wrappers, a ’90s-themed shirt, and a frozen microphone.
- Taraji P. Henson was also unmasked as the Scarab in the same episode.
- Tone Loc described the experience as fun and secretive, likening it to ‘FBI-type stuff.’
The latest season of The Masked Singer has already delivered its share of surprises, but few moments have left fans as stunned as the unmasking of ’90s rap legend Tone Loc. Known for his iconic hits like “Funky Cold Medina” and “Wild Thing,” the Grammy-nominated artist took to the stage under the guise of the Handyman, a character whose clues and performances kept audiences guessing until the big reveal.
From Candy Wrappers to Frozen Microphones: The Clues Behind the Mask
The journey to uncovering the Handyman’s identity was packed with intriguing hints. In his clue video, the Handyman shared that a painful accident had once changed his voice overnight. “But I didn’t let that hold me back,” he said. “And you know what, my voice got people’s attention. Suddenly, you could hear me everywhere—the radio, movies, even kids’ shows.”
On stage, additional clues like a bear wearing an “I Love the 90s” shirt, a microphone made of ice, and candy wrappers further fueled speculation. Judges Ken Jeong and Rita Ora threw out guesses ranging from Ice-T to Mr. T. But it was Robin Thicke who nailed it, confidently declaring, “I know that voice,” before correctly identifying Tone Loc.
When the mask finally came off, the crowd erupted. Host Nick Cannon couldn’t help but reference the rapper’s biggest hits, exclaiming, “It’s officially a ‘Wild Thing’ over here!”
Why Tone Loc Took on the Challenge
For Tone Loc, stepping onto the Masked Singer stage was about more than just nostalgia. It was a dare from his children that ultimately pushed him to participate. “My kids just dared me big time to come up on here,” he shared. “They’re like, ‘Dad, you’re not gonna do that.’ But I had a good time.”
At 59 years old, the rapper saw the competition as an opportunity to have fun and connect with a new audience. “I’m still having fun,” he said with a smile. In an interview with Variety, he described the experience as “really secretive, like some FBI-type stuff. They cover you up from head to toe and put you in your dressing room immediately.”
Despite the challenges of performing in a costume, Tone Loc embraced the moment. Reflecting on his performance of A Tribe Called Quest’s “Can I Kick It,” he said, “I didn’t really know how it came out sounding, but I liked it. Tribe was cool.”
A Night of Double Surprises
Tone Loc wasn’t the only celebrity unmasked during the episode. The Scarab, another contestant, turned out to be none other than Oscar-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson. Known for her roles in films like The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and Hidden Figures, Henson shared an emotional story about her late father, who predicted her Hollywood success but passed away before her Oscar nomination.
Performing Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” Henson brought a mix of emotion and energy to the stage. She later explained that the anonymity of the mask allowed her to perform with a newfound confidence. “It’s a lot of things you can do hiding behind a mask,” she said. “Because no one can see you, so you can get down. But you can’t lip sync—that’s the only thing. You have to really sing.”
Even though she was voted off, Henson took the experience in stride, jokingly asking the audience, “Who voted me off, though?” She ended her journey with a powerful rendition of Adele’s “Set Fire to the Rain.”
The Legacy of Tone Loc and His Impact
For fans of ‘90s music, Tone Loc’s unmasking was a nostalgic trip down memory lane. With his signature raspy voice and chart-topping hits, he helped define an era of hip-hop that continues to influence artists today. His decision to step into the spotlight on The Masked Singer not only showcased his enduring charisma but also introduced his music to a younger generation.
As the competition continues, the show promises more surprises and emotional moments. But for now, Tone Loc’s unmasking stands out as one of the most memorable highlights of Season 14.
In an era where nostalgia often serves as a bridge between generations, Tone Loc’s appearance on The Masked Singer is a testament to the timeless appeal of his music and personality. It’s a reminder that legends don’t just fade—they evolve, adapt, and continue to inspire.